What Are Peptides & How Do They Benefit Your Skin?

The skincare world is full of miracle products and ingredients, many of them promising skin you've only dreamed about. The key is sorting reality from the hype.

What are peptides doing listed in all your product recommendations and sitting on your friends' beauty shelves — and, more importantly, do they live up to lofty aspirations when it comes to your unique skin? Let's break it down.

At a basic level, peptides are chains of amino acids. Your body produces them in every cell, and they form the building blocks of essential proteins such as collagen and elastin that keep skin soft, bouncy and free of lines.

However, the body's production of these proteins slows down with age. Meanwhile, collagen and elastin begin to break down more quickly. The result? Signs of age. Introducing peptides into your skincare routine supports healthy-looking skin and can keep your skin looking its best.

Peptides are a power-packed skincare ingredient, but how do they fit into your routine? Before you grab the first peptide cream you see on the shelf, here are a few things to keep an eye out for.

While peptides are a natural component of our skin, they can be challenging to stabilize and deliver in cosmetic topical applications. Fortunately, scientists have been able to create peptides that can be absorbed within the skin's surface, remain intact and can provide targeted benefits for a multitude of skincare concerns.

A good rule of thumb as you're starting out with peptides is to invest in a good peptide cream that you can apply daily and incorporate seamlessly into your skincare routine. Peptides are ideal for across ages and skin types. Try options like the Neutrogena Rapid Firming™ line that includes products like Peptide Contour Lift Cream and Peptide Multi Action Eye Cream.

Peptides may not exactly be a miracle ingredient, and they definitely work better within a well-thought-out skincare regimen — but when you find the right one for your complexion, your skin will show it.