All about peptides in skin care – gentle power for sensitive skin

Peptides are considered key active ingredients in modern skincare. They stimulate skin regeneration, reduce wrinkles, and strengthen the skin barrier—particularly valuable for sensitive skin.

1. What are peptides?

Peptides are short chains of amino acids and the building blocks of proteins such as collagen, elastin, and keratin. In skincare, they act as precise signaling agents: they stimulate regeneration, repair, and firming, thus supporting the skin's structure and resilience.

2. How do peptides affect the skin?

• Collagen stimulation: they promote elasticity and firmness.
• Wrinkle reduction: they refine the skin’s appearance and smooth fine lines.
• Barrier strengthening: they reduce transepidermal water loss.
• Soothing: they reduce redness and inflammatory reactions.
• Promotes repair: they support stressed, sensitive skin.

3. Peptides in skin care – the most important types

• Signal peptides: stimulate collagen and elastin formation (e.g. Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 , Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 ).
• Carrier peptides: transport trace elements (e.g. copper) for regeneration processes.
• Neuropeptides: relax facial muscles and reduce expression lines.
• Enzyme inhibitor peptides: slow down collagen degradation by inhibiting degrading enzymes.

4. Why peptides are particularly suitable for sensitive skin

Sensitive skin often reacts to fragrances, alcohol, or harsh acids. Peptides are based on the body's natural principle, are considered non-irritating, and strengthen the skin barrier. The result: less irritation, a more balanced complexion, and increased resistance.

5. Peptides in natural cosmetics – biomimetic & plant-based

Modern, non-irritating natural cosmetics work with two complementary approaches:

• Plant-derived peptides from, for example, rice, pea, or oat proteins.
• Biomimetic peptides that mimic the body's own sequences and are therefore particularly well tolerated.

One example is Matrixyl 3000 GLYX , a combination of palmitoyl tripeptide-1 and palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7 . These biomimetic signaling peptides promote collagen synthesis, reduce inflammatory reactions, and strengthen the skin barrier. The peptide chains are biotechnologically constructed from amino acids and bound to palmitic acid from plant oils . They are vegan, cruelty-free, and contain no problematic additives—ideal for gentle yet effective slow-aging care in natural cosmetics.

6. How to integrate peptides into your skincare routine

1. Facial cleansing: it should be as mild and emulsifier-free as possible.
2. Peptide serum: 2-3 drops on dry, cleansed skin (morning and/or evening).
3. Finish with a protective face cream or a light, non-comedogenic oil.

Note: Visible effects usually appear after 4-6 weeks of consistent use.

7. Conclusion: Peptides as helpers for sensitive skin

Peptides offer high efficacy and excellent tolerability: They prevent premature skin aging, strengthen the barrier, and soothe irritated skin. They are among the most versatile and effective active ingredients for sensitive skin.

To make these benefits even more accessible, we have developed a peptide serum specifically for sensitive skin, which will soon be available in our range. It combines the effects of biomimetic signaling peptides with a particularly low-irritation, natural formulation.

8. FAQ – Frequently asked questions about peptides

New at myrto – available soon