Are Peptides Good for Sensitive Skin?

December 9, 2023

Peptide skincare and cosmetic products are believed to be great for sensitive skin. The collagen in these products can help the skin heal quickly from wounds and maintain elasticity.

In this post, we’ll dive deep into how peptides interact with the skin and how to use them for optimal results. 

What Are Peptides?

Peptides are small blocks of protein, which are made up of two to fifty amino acids. These are naturally present in the skin and help with cellular communication (1). They can also help with:

• Cell growth and multiplication
• Anti-inflammatory responses
• Formation of new blood vessels
• Production of melanin (the pigment that gives skin its color)
• Protection against microbial infections
• Wound healing

Given these benefits, synthetic peptides have surfaced as a popular ingredient in cosmetic and skincare products. Almost every other renowned cosmeceutical retailer has listed topical, intravenous, and oral peptides for sale.

Are Peptides Safe for Sensitive Skin?

Yes–peptide-based products are generally safe for all skin types, including individuals with sensitive skin (2). Many users believe they:

• Help slow down the aging process
• Restore the elasticity of skin
• Improve the healing rate
• Calm inflamed skin
• Protect against bacterial infections

However, if you have a skin disease, it’s best to consult with your healthcare provider before using any skincare or cosmetic product. 

Similarly, if you’re pregnant or take medication on a regular basis, it’s important to seek professional advice before using a peptide cream, lotion, or supplement. You can also read our post on whether peptides are safe for pregnancy.

How Do Peptides Benefit Sensitive Skin?

If you’re wondering how exactly peptides can benefit the skin, here are some examples of specific peptides and their functioning:

Signaling Peptides

These peptides may be able to boost collagen to reduce pigmentation, fine lines, and wrinkles (3). Their signature function is to promote collagen, elsatin, and protein growth for skin regeneration.

Carrier Peptides

These peptides function by delivering copper for wound healing and collagen formation. Evidence suggests they can prevent premature skin aging (3). These peptides function by transporting trace elements (e.g. copper) to support enzyme function.

Neurotransmitter Inhibitor Peptides

Neurotransmitter inhibitor peptides mimic neurotransmitter effects to reduce muscle contractions and soften wrinkles. They function by relaxing the muscles that cause fine lines.

Enzyme Inhibitor Peptides

This type of peptide is believed to combat dry skin and redness by interacting with skin bacteria. It functions by inhibiting various enzymes.

Antimicrobial Peptides

Also known as ‘AMPs,’ these peptides function by fighting pathogens and producing antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal effects. Synthetic AMPs combat drug-resistant microbes, like Staphylococcus aureus (boil-causing microbe) (4).

Risks Associated With Peptide Skin Products

So far, we have reviewed the positive side of peptide-based skin products. However, there are certain risks associated with these products that you should be aware of. Here are three important ones:

Irritation and Sensitivity

Certain peptides, especially those with potent or aggressive actions, may cause skin irritation, redness (5), or sensitivity. For that reason, patch testing is recommended before using products that contain new peptides–it can help you judge your skin’s reaction to new peptides.

Allergic Reactions

Some people might be allergic to specific peptides or other ingredients in a product (6). Allergic reactions can lead to itching, rashes, and even more severe effects–such as difficulty in breathing and dangerously low blood pressure–in sensitive individuals.

Interaction with Other Ingredients

Peptides might interact with other active ingredients in a product, which can lead to unexpected reactions and may even reduce the efficacy of the product (7). So, it’s essential to consider how different ingredients in a skincare product can complement or interfere with each other. Consult with a dermatologist to see what ingredients won’t agitate your skin.

How to Use Peptides for the Best Results

Here are a few tips to help you achieve the best results with peptides:

• Start by introducing one peptide product at a time to monitor your skin’s reaction. 
• Apply peptides to clean, dry skin, preferably in the evening. This is when skin repair and renewal processes are most active (8). 
• Layer peptides under moisturizers to enhance their effectiveness. 
• Consistency is key. Give peptides at least two weeks to work and avoid overusing them (9). 
• Always wear sunscreen during the day to protect your skin from potential sensitivity caused by increased cell turnover.

For more helpful information, check out our post on what peptides do for lips!

Legal Disclaimer

This product has not been approved by the US FDA. All statements on this page are for informational purposes only and have not been evaluated by the US FDA.

This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. See more

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Sources:

1. https://www.mdpi.com/2079-9284/4/2/16
2. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1756464621003297
3. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33195061/
4. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32534825/
5. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4793058/
6. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6016997/
7. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7956380/
8. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6777699/
9. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6981886/#:~:text=As%20a%20result%2C%20significant%20improvements,efficacy%20of%20the%20peptides%20complex.