8 peptide-infused products that you should add to your skincare routine

If you’re even remotely into skincare and beauty, then you've probably come across an ingredient called peptides either on your IG feed or when shopping for your beauty essentials. After retinol, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin C, peptides are the new trending ingredient. But what are peptides and how do they help the skin? More importantly, which peptide-based products are really worth trying.

Read on to find out. 

What are peptides?

It's a known fact that our skin is made up of proteins, and peptides—made up of amino acids—are the building blocks of this protein. They are minuscule chemical compounds that tell our skin to produce more collagen. So, when you apply them directly onto your skin, you're signalling your body to produce more collagen, which, in turn, will increase your skin's elasticity and make it more youthful.

A great alternative to those sensitive to retinol

While peptides and retinol are two completely different ingredients (one is a vitamin and the other is a protein), their benefits are quite similar. Both ingredients help fight the signs of ageing, making your skin look smoother, plumper, and generally more youthful. Plus, like retinol, peptides also increase skin cell production, resulting in a strengthened skin barrier. The antioxidants in peptides might even calm down inflamed and irritated skin. So, if you’ve hopped onto the retinol train but found it too potent and harsh for your skin, then peptides are a better option for you as they are sensitive skin-friendly.

A guide to adding peptides to your skincare routine

Peptides are mild enough to include in both your AM and PM routines. Like any other antioxidant such as vitamin C or retinol, you can apply peptide serums after cleansing your face and follow it with your moisturiser and sunscreen (if using during the day).

Instead of wash-off products like cleansers or masks, opt for serums and creams. Look for products that either are stand-alone peptide serums or are paired with collagen, ceramides, and other antioxidants to get the most out of the skincare superstar. And like any other collagen-boosting product, the earlier you start—in your mid-twenties or early thirties—the higher the chances of it keeping your skin healthy and supple. 

Looking for a place to start your peptide journey? We’ve rounded up the skincare products in the market that you should try.

Aminu The Azure Copper Peptide Serum, ₹4,600

Farmacy Beauty Apple Peptide Lip Smoothie, ₹2,350

Allies Of Skin Peptides & Antioxidants Firming Daily Treatment, ₹3,150

First Aid Beauty Bounce-Boosting Serum With Collagen + Peptide, ₹4,975

COSRX Advanced Snail Peptide Eye Cream, ₹2,050

Wishful Honey Whip Peptide Moisturizer, ₹3,750

LISEN Timeless Elegance Ampoule to Overcome Past and Future Ageing, ₹3,500

The Ordinary Multi-Peptide + HA Serum, ₹1,550