Imagine this: Botox in a bottle! Sounds too good to be true, right? But wait, does it actually work? Well, this week on the blog, I'm breaking down something called peptides and all you need to know about this latest active hitting the mainstream.

What are Peptides?

Peptides are the building blocks of proteins and collagen, made up of individual amino acids.You might have heard about injectable peptides like botulinum toxin. Well, guess what? Peptides are now being used in creams, serums, and other skincare products that you can put right on your skin.

Peptides can either assist in building things up or stop things from breaking down. When you use creams with peptides, they team up to make your skin look better, especially when it comes to fine lines and wrinkles. 

So do they work?

Some studies suggest that using products with peptides can improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. That's exciting news for smoother skin, right? However, there's a little twist to keep in mind.

These studies were done on a smaller scale, and here's the catch – some of them were sponsored by the companies that make the products; so take the results with a side of skepticism.

Who can benefit from peptide use?

If you want to get the most out of your skincare routine, consider using a product with peptides. A good place to start is with a peptide containing eye cream. Look for matrixyl 3000 as this ingredient has the most research and widespread use. Stick with a mid range price point so you don't break the bank! It's recommended to use these products twice daily as part of your regular skincare routine.

Wondering about the buzz around "Botox in a bottle"? Well that peptide, argireline is a neuromodulator like Botox. However, unlike its injected counterpart, argireline is applied directly onto the skin's surface.Industry-sponsored studies have shown some improvement in fine lines and wrinkles with argireline but this peptide doesn't inhibit muscle movement like injectable Botox. Moreover, the visible improvements tend to fade after use, suggesting that while argireline might offer benefits upon application, its effects are short-lived!

What are the downsides of peptides? 

Actually, not too many. They tend to be quite well-tolerated, causing minimal irritation for the majority of individuals. They are suitable for all skin types, and safe for use even during pregnancy and breastfeeding. However, the main drawback is their cost, as peptide-infused products often come with a higher price tag. If you're considering giving peptides a try, start with an eye cream with an affordable price tag.

Tune into this week’s podcast episode featuring Dr. Buhalog, where we take a deep dive into the world of peptides.