Why Peptide Peel is a non-negotiable anti-aging treatment

Navigating the world of anti-aging treatments can be a maze of confusing jargon and half-baked promises that lead to nowhere. If you’re looking for a reliable treatment, a peptide peel may be your answer.

Think chemical peels but advanced – skincare experts and beauty aficionados love it. Intrigued? Read on to find out why peptide peels are a non-negotiable addition to your skincare arsenal.

What are peptides?

Peptides are short chains of amino acids, the building blocks of proteins, which play a crucial role in the structure and function of cells. They are essentially smaller versions of proteins and can be thought of as the ‘mini-messengers’ in the body, communicating between cells and influencing various physiological functions. Unlike larger proteins, peptides are more easily absorbed by the skin, making them highly effective as topical treatments in skincare products.

In the context of skincare, peptides are revered for their ability to send signals to skin cells, prompting them to perform specific tasks like producing collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid. Collagen is vital for maintaining the skin’s structure and elasticity, while hyaluronic acid ensures hydration and plumpness. 

As we age, the natural production of these vital elements diminish, leading to wrinkles, sagging, and dry skin. By topically applying peptides, we are essentially giving our skin the signal to ‘wake up’ and get back to work, which can result in a more youthful appearance.

However, it’s crucial to note that peptides are most effective when used in conjunction with other beneficial skincare ingredients like antioxidants, hyaluronic acid, and sunscreen. They are not a stand-alone miracle cure but a potent weapon in your anti-aging arsenal.

How do peptides work?

Exfoliation and renewal

While they may not directly exfoliate the skin like alpha or beta hydroxy acids, some peptides facilitate processes that lead to faster cell turnover and skin renewal. By signaling for increased production of skin-firming and moisture-retaining substances like collagen and hyaluronic acid, they help create an environment conducive to healthy skin regeneration.

Peptides may also enhance the effectiveness of other exfoliating agents. For instance, when used in conjunction with traditional exfoliants like glycolic acid, they can boost the overall effect, promoting faster skin regeneration and improving the appearance of the skin’s surface. 

They can help support the skin’s natural shedding process by fortifying the new skin layers being formed, making them healthier, more resilient, and more capable of retaining moisture. The result is fresher, younger-looking skin with a smoother texture and fewer signs of ageing.

Collagen production

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the skin and serves as the scaffolding that gives skin its structure and firmness. However, as we age, the natural production of collagen decreases, leading to wrinkles, sagging, and a loss of elasticity. This is where peptides come into play.

In the realm of skincare, certain types of peptides, often referred to as “signal peptides,” act as messengers that instruct skin cells to synthesise more collagen. When you apply a product containing these peptides, they are small enough to penetrate the skin’s protective barrier and reach the deeper layers where collagen is produced. 

Once there, they bind to specific receptors on the skin cells, triggering a biochemical pathway that results in increased collagen synthesis. In other words, these peptides send a “produce more collagen” signal to fibroblasts, the cells responsible for generating collagen.

It’s also worth noting that some peptides act as building blocks for collagen. Collagen is essentially a long chain of amino acids, and peptides, being short chains of amino acids themselves, can provide the necessary materials for collagen construction. This means that not only do peptides signal for more collagen to be produced, but they also supply some of the raw materials needed for its formation.

All this gives a more robust, elastic skin structure, which can contribute to a youthful appearance. Wrinkles may be less noticeable, and the skin may appear plumper and more hydrated. It’s like giving your skin the tools and the blueprint it needs to rebuild itself.

Skin rejuvenation

Inflamed skin is more prone to ageing and other skin issues. Peptides can help calm inflammation, promoting faster healing and a more youthful complexion. 

They may also enhance the skin’s ability to retain moisture by supporting hyaluronic acid production, another crucial component for a plump, youthful look. 

There are also other peptides known as carrier peptides that can help with skin rejuvenation by delivering trace elements like copper to the skin, aiding in wound healing and enzymatic processes. This enhances the skin’s natural ability to repair itself, making it look and feel younger and more revitalised.

Hydration and moisture balance

Certain types of peptides, often referred to as “moisturising peptides,” have been specifically shown to improve the skin’s natural hydration mechanisms. They achieve this by enhancing the production of hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance in the skin that can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water. This helps the skin retain moisture more effectively, leading to a plumper, more hydrated appearance.

Additionally, peptides can bolster the skin’s natural barrier function. A healthy skin barrier is crucial for maintaining optimal moisture levels, as it prevents transepidermal water loss, a primary cause of dry and dehydrated skin. By supporting a robust skin barrier, peptides help keep moisture and maintain skin hydration for longer periods of time.

Peptides also pair well with other hydrating ingredients like ceramides and fatty acids, often present in moisturisers. This synergy enhances the overall effectiveness of skincare products aimed at boosting hydration, resulting in a multi-faceted approach to maintaining hydration.

Customised solutions

Peptide peels can also be formulated to include other active ingredients that complement the effects of peptides. For example, if you’re looking to boost hydration, hyaluronic acid could be added. If you want to tackle pigmentation, ingredients like vitamin C or licorice root extract can be included. This creates a multi-functional treatment tailored to your unique skin needs.

The frequency and duration of the treatments can also be personalised. Some people may benefit from regular, less intense peels, while others might require fewer, more concentrated treatments for optimal results. Your skincare professional can advise on a regimen that’s right for you, ensuring that you get the most out of your peptide peel treatments.

Milder option

Milder options for peptide peels are available and are often recommended for individuals with sensitive skin or for those who are new to the world of chemical peels and skin treatments. Peptide peels can be formulated with lower concentrations of active ingredients, making them less intense and reducing the likelihood of irritation or adverse reactions. 

Lower-concentration peels still offer many of the benefits of a more robust treatment, such as stimulating collagen production and improving skin texture, but they do so in a gentler manner.

Certain types of peptides are also known for their soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. When included in a peel formulation, these peptides can help counteract any potential irritation caused by the exfoliating agents, making the treatment more comfortable for those with sensitive skin.

It’s also possible to find peptide peels that are combined with other gentle, hydrating ingredients. Substances like hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, or ceramides can be included in the formulation to provide additional moisturising and soothing effects. This creates a balanced treatment that not only exfoliates and rejuvenates but also hydrates and calms the skin.

Peptide Peel Facial – 6 key acids

At SkinLab, our Peptide Peel Facial uses 6 different acids to help with triggering the skin’s renewal while reducing the activity of pigment-inducing cells.

Phytic acid

Phytic acid is a naturally occurring alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) found in plant seeds and bran. It’s commonly used in skincare products for its exfoliating, brightening, and antioxidant properties. Unlike other AHAs like glycolic or lactic acid, phytic acid is generally milder, making it suitable for sensitive skin types or those new to chemical exfoliants.

If you’re looking for a mild exfoliant that also offers brightening and antioxidant benefits, phytic acid could be a great choice. Especially suitable for those with sensitive skin or for people who are new to the world of chemical exfoliants, phytic acid offers a gentler approach to skin rejuvenation.

Mandelic acid

Mandelic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from bitter almonds. It is larger in molecular size compared to other AHAs like glycolic or lactic acid, which allows it to penetrate the skin more slowly and cause less irritation. This makes it an excellent option for sensitive skin types or for those who are new to using chemical exfoliants. 

One of its primary functions is to accelerate cell turnover by dissolving the bonds between dead skin cells on the surface, making it easier to slough them off. This results in smoother, fresher skin with improved texture and clarity.

Furthermore, mandelic acid is effective in addressing hyperpigmentation, age spots, and uneven skin tone. It inhibits the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for the darkening of the skin, leading to a more balanced and even complexion. 

Because of its gentle nature and slower absorption rate, it’s less likely to cause irritation compared to other, more potent AHAs. This makes it an excellent choice for those wanting to tackle multiple skincare issues like ageing, acne, and hyperpigmentation without risking excessive irritation.

Tranexamic acid

Originally developed as a medication to reduce bleeding, it has gained attention in dermatology for its ability to inhibit the activation of melanocytes, the cells that produce melanin, the pigment responsible for skin colour. By doing so, tranexamic acid can effectively reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation, melasma, and dark spots, leading to a more even and brighter skin tone.

Apart from its skin-lightening effects, tranexamic acid also has anti-inflammatory properties. It can help to calm the skin and reduce redness, making it beneficial for individuals with sensitive or reactive skin. This anti-inflammatory action also makes it useful in the management of conditions like rosacea and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, which can result from acne or other skin injuries.

Gluconolactone

Gluconolactone is a polyhydroxy acid (PHA), a type of acid that’s renowned for its exfoliating and moisturising properties, as well as its gentleness on the skin. Unlike alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs), which have smaller molecular structures, the larger molecular size of PHAs like gluconolactone enables slower skin penetration. This reduces the risk of irritation, making it a favourable choice for those with sensitive or reactive skin.

In terms of exfoliation, gluconolactone works by breaking down the bonds between dead skin cells on the skin’s surface, facilitating their removal and revealing a fresher, brighter layer of skin underneath. It can improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, offering anti-ageing benefits. The exfoliating action also prepares the skin for better absorption of other skincare products, increasing their efficacy.

Gluconolactone is also well-known for its hydrating properties. It can attract and hold moisture to help keep the skin hydrated and supple. Its moisture-retaining capacity enhances the skin’s natural barrier function, aiding in the prevention of moisture loss.

Lactobionic acid

Lactobionic acid is a polyhydroxy acid (PHA) known for its exfoliating, moisturising, and antioxidant properties. Due to its larger molecular size, it penetrates the skin more slowly, reducing the risk of irritation and making it suitable for sensitive skin. 

It gently exfoliates by breaking down the bonds between dead skin cells, revealing a smoother, fresher layer underneath. Lactobionic acid also draws moisture into the skin to keep it hydrated. Its antioxidant capabilities further protect the skin from environmental damage, such as exposure to UV rays and pollution. Overall, it’s a multifunctional ingredient that offers gentle exfoliation, hydration, and protection.

Sodium lactate

Sodium lactate is the sodium salt of lactic acid and is commonly used in skincare products for its moisturising and hydrating properties. It can draw moisture from the air to bind it to the skin, helping to keep the skin moisturised. The ingredient is particularly beneficial in formulations intended for dry or dehydrated skin, as it helps to strengthen the skin’s natural moisture barrier, making it more resistant to external factors that can lead to dryness or irritation.

Besides its hydrating benefits, sodium lactate is also mildly exfoliating. While it is not as potent an exfoliant as alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) like glycolic or lactic acid, it does help to promote cell turnover. This can contribute to smoother, more radiant skin over time, and can also help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and other signs of ageing.

Anti-ageing facial treatment in Singapore

The right anti-ageing peptide facial for your skin is here. For your fight against time, you need the support of our experienced, well-trained professionals who can care for your skin with peptide peel facial treatments. At SkinLab, Singapore’s largest medical spa chain, our highly trained therapists endeavour to give you the best care and treatment, so you walk out of the door looking and feeling your best.

Contact us now.