Peptides: Everything You Need to Know About This Beauty Ingredient

What are peptides?

Naturally present in the skin, peptides are short chains of amino acids that act as messengers to signal cells to produce or repair certain proteins. Although similar to proteins in structure, they are actually much smaller than proteins. In fact, peptides consist of only 2 to 20 amino acids for oligopeptides, and 21 to 50 amino acids for polypeptides.

They play a vital role in cellular communication, tissue repair, and the production of important proteins such as collagen and elastin, which are responsible for skin firmness and elasticity. Thanks to their small size, peptides can effectively reach certain layers of the skin when added to skincare products, helping to repair, renew, and protect cells.

A closer look at how they work on the skin

Simply put, the peptides found in skincare products tell the skin what it already knows how to do—but better. They optimize the skin’s natural mechanisms to support collagen and elastin synthesis, promote tissue repair and cell regeneration, help soothe certain types of inflammation, andstrengthen the skin barrier. Their action doesn’t transform the skin; it simply supports its natural functions.

On the surface, this action can result in firmer, smoother, and more even-toned skin, with reduced blemishes and/or dark spots and soothed redness. Each peptide sends a specific signal to the cells. Some peptides target skin firmness and tone, while others improve the complexion’s radiance or support the skin barrier. So-called “Botox-like” peptides act on the micro-contractions responsible for expression lines, offering a subtle yet noticeable smoothing effect. Certain peptides, such as Palmitoyl Tripeptide-8 or Copper Peptide GHK-Cu, can also help soothe irritation and modulate inflammation, but not all peptides possess this property.

The effectiveness of these peptides depends on their type, concentration, and the quality of the formulation, which determines their stability and their ability to reach the targeted layers of the skin.

Benefits that go beyond the skin

Peptides aren’t limited to the face—their benefits extend to the entire skin. On the body, they can help improve firmness, enhance elasticity, and support skin regeneration—for example, on the décolleté, hands, arms, or legs. They also help reduce redness, irritation, or dry patches, and help strengthen the skin barrier, thereby improving hydration and protection against external aggressors.

Why are peptides getting so much attention?

According to Google, searches related to peptide skincare skyrocketed in 2025, making peptides the most popular ingredient on INCI lists…including on our shelves. But where does this surge in popularity come from? Well, because peptides raise the bar for performance. More than just an anti-aging ingredient, peptides are a so-called “longevity” ingredient that helps sustain the skin’s health and youthfulness over the long term. They play a role in both preventing and preserving skin health, as well as treating specific concerns, making them a major player! Plus, it’s an excellent ingredient to combine withhyaluronic acid, retinoids, and vitamin C for a comprehensive skincare routine.

Peptides and Aesthetic Medicine: What You Need to Know

In aesthetic medicine, certain peptides are used for their ability to stimulate tissue repair, support collagen production, and improve the overall appearance of the skin. They can also help soothe certain types of inflammation and improve skin quality, thereby helping to reduce the visible signs of aging. In fact, they have been used for several years in orthopedic treatments as well as in sports medicine.

But it’s important to note that the peptides used in certain injections or targeted treatments don’t work the same way as the peptides found in your favorite skincare products. The latter work more gradually on the skin’s surface to support the skin’s natural processes, whereas peptides injected directly into the dermis (or muscles) act directly at a deeper level.

Peptide-enriched skincare that makes a difference

When used regularly, skincare products formulated with peptides can really make a difference for your skin. All that’s left is to find the right formula for your skin! Below is an overview of our top gems :

CollagenCombeau: this is the treatment that needs no introduction, formulated with hydrolyzed type 1 collagen peptides to address the signs of aging and improve skin elasticity, evenness, and radiance.
Youth-Boost Peptide Serum Goop Beauty: an ultra-powerful facial serum formulated with anti-aging peptides to target the main signs of skin aging.
Youth-Boost NAD+ Peptide Rich CreamGoop Beauty: a rich, super-hydrating cream with a 360° formula designed to improve hydration, firmness, elasticity, and skin longevity.
Plumping SerumOh My Cream Skincare: a serum enriched with peptides, niacinamide, vitamin C, bakuchiol, and much more, for a comprehensive 360-degree effect! It hydrates, plumps, smooths fine lines, and restores the skin’s natural radiance.
Water-Lock Moisturizer Tata Harper : a lightweight cream with a 100% natural formula to replenish moisture and restore plumpness to the skin, thanks to the combined action of peptides and hyaluronic acid.
The Peptide Serum Dr. Barbara Sturm : an intelligent serum specially formulated to preserve collagen and elastin and slow down skin aging. `
Everyday 50 Face Fluid SPF 50 Mimétique : a moisturizing sunscreen with an invisible formula, enriched with peptides, to hydrate the skin and protect it from UVA and UVB rays, while correcting pigmentation spots.