New skin saviours - The new peptides

A new roster of new and updated ingredients has hit the beauty scene including the new peptides. Here’s the lowdown on what they are and what they can do for your skin

The new peptides

Low down
Peptides come in many guises and research is bringing new, enhanced, improved peptides to skincare.  A peptide is a chain of amino acids.  When appllied to the skin, it acts as a cell messanger, encouraging the skin to produce more collagen - read: smoother skin, fewer lines.   The other form of peptide to capture our imagination, the hexapeptide Argireline, is said to mimick the effect of Botox by inhibiting muscle contractions.

The news
The new peptide of the moment and even more of a mouthful to say, is the octyhexapeptide.  It's kind of a turbo charged, version of the so called, muscle contracting peptide.  It has a longer chain of amino acids which means that it is more effective.  You'll find it in Medic8 Protox Infini8.  It is clinically proven to be 30% more effective - and even the makers of Argireline are confirming this.  

What peptides can do for you
Peptides are the new generation line smoothers.  They are increasingly being added to anti-ageing skincare - and not just the more hi-tech brands.  Peptides are found in nature, from milk, to nuts and plants, so are also available for use in the more natural skincare brands from Nude to Aromatherapy Associates.  Peptides take time to act, so a product needs to be used for two to three months before you can see results.  

Best buys
‘New' Botox effect: Medic8 Protox Infini8, £90,
Line smoothing: M Lab Anti-Ageing Treatment Serum, £250
Darphin Fibrogene Line Response Nourishing Cream, £44, 0870 034 2566