Peptides for Skin: What They Do & Do They Really Work
Peptides are amino acid chains that signal skin cells to produce more collagen — a gentle, supporting ingredient rather than a replacement for stronger actives like retinol.
Peptides are amino acid chains that signal skin cells to produce more collagen — a gentle, supporting ingredient rather than a replacement for stronger actives like retinol.
Azelaic acid treats acne, calms rosacea, and fades hyperpigmentation — one of the few actives gentle enough for sensitive skin yet effective enough for prescription-strength use.
Centella Asiatica (Cica) is a calming, barrier-repairing herb with roots in Ayurveda — ideal for sensitive, reactive, or post-procedure skin at 5-10% concentration.
Zinc oxide is a mineral UV filter offering true broad-spectrum protection — ideal for sensitive, reactive, or post-procedure skin, typically found at 15-25% concentration.
Ashwagandha is an Ayurvedic adaptogen now used topically for hydration, calming, and early anti-aging support — an emerging but genuinely researched ingredient.
Salicylic acid (BHA) is an oil-soluble exfoliant that unclogs pores from within — most effective for acne and blackheads between 0.5% and 2%.
Hyaluronic acid is a humectant that can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water — but using it wrong can actually dry your skin out.
Retinol is a vitamin A derivative that speeds up cell turnover and boosts collagen — beginners should start around 0.1–0.3% and build up slowly.
Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) is a potent antioxidant that brightens skin and supports collagen — most effective between 8% and 20%.
Niacinamide is a vitamin B3 derivative that strengthens the skin barrier, evens tone, and controls oil — most effective between 2% and 5%.