The power of peptides: why you need them in your skincare routine
In the ever-evolving world of skincare, peptides have emerged as key players in the search for smoother, healthier skin. Among the wide array of peptides available, three have become especially popular for their impressive benefits: Argireline™*, Matrixyl 3000®, and Matrixyl® Synthe’ 6®**, which can all be found in The Smoothing Serum. Each of these peptides offers unique benefits, making them valuable additions to any skincare routine. Let’s delve into the effects of these peptides on the skin, the differences between them, and why they are so great for maintaining a radiant complexion.
Understanding peptides
Peptides are short chains of amino acids, the building blocks of proteins, which play a central role in maintaining healthy skin. In skincare, peptides work by signalling the skin to produce more collagen, elastin, and other proteins essential for maintaining firmness. As we get older, the production of these proteins slows down, leading to lines, creases and loss of elasticity. Peptides help minimise these effects by stimulating the skin’s natural repair processes.
Argireline™: The muscel relaxer
Argireline™, also known as Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, is often referred to as “Botox in a bottle.” This peptide works by decreasing the release of neurotransmitters that cause facial muscles to contract. By relaxing these muscles, Argireline™ helps reduce the appearance of expression lines and wrinkles, particularly around the eyes and forehead. Argireline™ primarily targets dynamic lines — those caused by repetitive facial movements. Regular use of this peptide can result in smoother skin and a noticeable reduction in the depth of lines.
The benefits of Argireline™
Including Argireline™ in your skincare routine can be particularly beneficial if you are looking to reduce fine lines and prevent new ones from forming. Its muscle-relaxing properties make it an excellent choice for those who want a non-surgical option to creases and lines. Moreover, it pairs well with other ingredients, enhancing the skin’s overall texture and appearance.
Matrixyl 3000®: The Collagen Booster
This brings us to our second peptide, Matrixyl 3000®. This powerful peptide blend consisting of two matrikines, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 and Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, is designed to mimic the natural processes of skin regeneration and repair, significantly boosting collagen and elastin production. Matrixyl 3000® works by stimulating the skin’s fibroblasts, the cells responsible for producing collagen and elastin. As a result, it helps to restore the skin’s elasticity and firmness. Studies have shown that Matrixyl 3000® can nearly double the amount of collagen in the skin, making it a highly effective ingredient.
Matrixyl® Synthe’ 6®: The Line Plumper
Last but not least we have Matrixyl® Synthe’ 6®. This is another advanced peptide that helps to stimulate the production of collagen I, III, and IV, fibronectin, hyaluronic acid, and laminin-5. These components are vital for maintaining skin structure and hydration. By promoting their synthesis, Matrixyl® Synthe’ 6® helps to fill lines, particularly on the forehead and around the eye area, leading to smoother and more plump skin. Used regularly, it can result in a more even skin tone, enhanced hydration, and a significant reduction in line depth.
Comparing the Peptides: Differences and Synergies
While Argireline™, Matrixyl 3000®, and Matrixyl® Synthe’ 6® each offers unique benefits, they also complement each other beautifully.
- Argireline™ works by inhibiting muscle contractions, which helps reduce expression lines. In contrast, Matrixyl 3000® and Matrixyl® Synthe’ 6® stimulate collagen production, addressing structural and deep-set lines.
- Argireline™ is most effective for dynamic creases, particularly around the eyes and forehead. Matrixyl 3000® and Matrixyl® Synthe’ 6® are more effective for treating fine lines, deep wrinkles, and loss of firmness.
- Argireline™ provides immediate but subtle relaxation of facial muscles, leading to smoother skin over time. Matrixyl 3000® and Matrixyl® Synthe’ 6® offer longer-term benefits by rebuilding the skin’s matrix and improving hydration and elasticity.
The Smoothing Serum
The Smoothing Serum is a reformulated and renamed version of The Rebound Serum. We have replaced botanical stem cells with two more peptides, creating an ultra-smoothing triple peptide complex, designed for those looking for a plumper, smoother, more even complexion. The peptides combined with hyaluronic acid, make this formula incredibly hydrating, lightweight, and easily combined with our other formulas. For super-smoothing treatment, we suggest first applying The Miracle Mask, our resurfacing glow-up mask, letting it sit for 30 minutes before rinsing and then applying 2-3 pumps of The Smoothing Serum
*Argireline™ is a trademark of The Lubrizol Corporation or its affiliates.
**Matrixyl 3000® and Matrixyl®Synthe’6® are used under authorization of Sederma.