Your Guide to Peptides

Peptides are a bit of a buzzword or buzz-ingredient these days, but what are they? In honor of National Peptide Day on August 8, we're bringing you a guide to peptides! Let's break down what this ingredient is and how it can help your beauty routine.

What are peptides?

A peptide is a short chain of two to 100 amino acids linked by chemical bonds. Think of them as smaller, simpler versions of protein. They act as vital cellular messengers in the body, regulating hormones, immune responses, and tissue repair. Peptides are found naturally in foods like meat, fish, and beans, and they are produced in the body. Peptides are used in everything from skincare to the base for GLP-1s to injections for athletic recovery.

Benefits of peptides in skincare

When applied topically through serums or moisturizers, they signal skin cells to repair damage, boost firmness, and improve hydration with minimal risk of irritation. Here are some ways using a peptide-infused serum or other skincare product can help:

• Collagen boost: Applying peptides topically signals the skin to ramp up collagen production, helping to reduce fine lines

• Improves firmness: Restores elasticity to aging skin

• Strengthens the skin barrier: Helps protect against environmental stress and moisture loss (Read more about the skin barrier here)

• Soothes inflammation: Peptides calm stressed skin and reduce redness

Peptides are gentle and can be layered with Vitamin C, niacinamide, and retinoids, and are most commonly used in serums and moisturizers.

Benefits of peptides in hair care

When used in hair products, peptides reinforce damaged hair shafts and signal scalp follicles to support keratin production, improve blood flow, and encourage thicker, healthier hair growth. Here's how peptides can help your hair and scalp:

• At the root: Peptides can stimulate follicle cells, extend the growth phase, and reduce shedding

• Along the strand: Peptides bind to weak areas of the hair to reduce damage, smooth the texture, and prevent breakage

• At the scalp: Hair care products with peptides can help improve scalp health by lowering inflammation and balancing hydration for an optimal growth environment

In hair care, peptides are best used in a leave-in conditioner or serum so they stay in contact with the hair longer. It's important to be consistent, as it can take 2-3 months before you begin to see results. Peptides work well for early and stress shedding, but are not a solution for advanced pattern baldness.

Benefits of peptides in nail care

Peptides in nail care act as building blocks that deliver keratin proteins and moisture directly to the nail bed and cuticles, helping to repair brittle, peeling, or gel-damaged nails. Here's how peptides can boost your nail care routine:

• Protein delivery: Peptides supply hydrolyzed keratin and specialized protein peptides to help reinforce the natural nail plate

• Moisture retention: Hydrates dry, ragged cuticles and prevents the nail bed from splitting or peeling

• Flexibility boost: Improves nail resilience to reduce chipping from daily wear or harsh acrylic removal

• Enhanced growth: Supports the health of the nail base matrix for stronger regrowth over time

In nail care, look for peptides in topical serums or cuticle creams, lotions, and strengtheners or base coats. You can also take peptides in the form of a protein powder or supplement.

Have questions about next steps for your skincare routine? We can help. Call Salon Patrice at (815) 223-8643 or find a list of our services here.