Peptides are short chains of amino acids that are the building blocks of proteins. Naturally occurring human peptides are responsible for cellular communication. Think of them as tiny messengers, carrying important messages that support vital processes within the body, such as defense, immunity, stress, growth and, very importantly, homeostasis, a self-regulating process that helps the body stay balanced and adapt to changes around it.

Within the skin, small peptides known as “matrikines” are derived from the breakdown of collagen and elastin, two classes of proteins found in different tissues all over the body. These are present in the deeper layers of the skin.

Think of collagen and elastin as building blocks of a scaffold that keeps our skin structurally sound, each with very specific functions: while collagen imparts resilience, strength, and firmness to the skin, elastin gives skin the ability to bounce back.

Together, they provide our skin with structural support. As we age, the quantity and quality of collagen and elastin in our bodies decline, allowing for other forces, such as gravity and muscle movement, to take over which can appear as wrinkles, sagging, and loss of firmness.

When collagen and elastin proteins break down into smaller peptides, signals are sent across the skin that announce this loss of structural integrity, allowing the body to respond. Topical peptides mimic naturally occurring peptides by acting on the visible effects of this loss of collagen and elastin - which include fine lines and wrinkles, loss of elasticity, and an uneven skin texture. However, research shows that specific peptide complexes can visibly improve skin wrinkles, demonstrating their benefits for aging skin.

Related Reading: How to Repair Aging-Related Skin Damage

What makes peptides particularly valuable in skincare is their specificity. Different peptides serve distinct purposes, targeting specific skin concerns. Some peptides focus on supporting key structural components, helping to reduce the look of fine lines and wrinkles in signs of aging. Others assist in improving the look of skin texture and firmness, while certain peptides possess soothing properties, calming signs of irritation, making them ideal for sensitized skin.

Peptides can also be optimized for delivery into the skin. Some peptides can even act as delivery molecules, helping to support the delivery of other actives into the skin.

Peptides can also have a number of benefits in hair care, including helping to support healthy-looking hair by promoting thicker, fuller-looking hair.

At The Ordinary, we believe in the power of peptides. That’s why we’ve developed a selection of products featuring multi-peptides—ingredients designed to work together to target the appearance of multiple skin concerns and support hair density.

Multi-Peptide + HA Serum

Our original multi-peptide serum utilizes four well-studied peptide technologies, skin-friendly amino acids, and multiple hyaluronic acid complexes. It helps significantly improve the appearance of crow's feet and the feel of skin elasticity and firmness.

Multi-Peptide Eye Serum

This water-based formulation targets multiple eye concerns in one serum. Utilizing multiple peptide technologies, it helps to reduce the appearance of crow’s feet and under-eye wrinkles, eye bags, puffiness, and dark circles, leaving the eye area looking brighter, smoother, and less puffy.

Multi-Peptide Lash and Brow Serum

By utilizing 11 actives, including four peptide complexes and a series of plant extracts, this twice-daily serum helps nourish and protect your lashes and brows while enhancing their appearance of density and overall appearance in as little as four weeks.

You can incorporating peptides into your skincare regimen by following The Ordinary's "Prep, Treat, Seal" system. This structured approach helps ensure your skin is prepared to receive and benefit from peptide formulations.​

Step 1: Prep

Start by cleansing your skin to remove impurities, setting the stage for effective treatment absorption. Using a gentle cleanser, like The Ordinary's Squalane Cleanser, helps maintain the skin's moisture barrier while ensuring a clean surface.

Step 2: Treat

This phase focuses on addressing specific skin concerns with targeted treatments. Formulations that include peptides are particularly effective in supporting skin elasticity and reducing the appearance of fine lines. The Ordinary offers a range of peptide-based formulations to help target these concerns:​

For those wanting to introduce target solutions for specific age-related concerns:

• Argireline Solution 10% (expression lines)
• Matrixyl 10% + HA (firmness)

For those targeting signs of premature aging at once:

• Multi-Peptide + HA Serum

Ideal for more advanced age support:

• Multi-Peptide + Copper Peptides 1% Serum

Ideal for anyone and a pairs well with the above formulations:

• Multi-Peptide Lash and Brow Serum
• Multi-Peptide Serum for Hair Density

Apply these water-based serums after cleansing (and toning, if applicable) to ensure optimal efficacy.​ Peptide serums should be used before emulsions, creams, or oils and before retinol applications.

Related Reading: Your Comprehensive Guide to Using Retinoids

Direct acids and L-ascorbic acid (vitamin C) have a low pH, which can increase the risk of peptide breakdown, potentially reducing their effectiveness. For this reason, we recommend using them in separate routines.

Patch testing is always recommended before introducing new skincare products into your regimen to ensure compatibility.

Step 3: Seal

The final step is to lock in the benefits of your treatments with a moisturizer. This helps maintain hydration and reinforces the skin's barrier. Be sure to choose a formulation that suits you skin type.

Related Reading: Your Guide to Layering The Ordinary Skincare.

Are peptides suitable for all skin types?

Our peptide products are suitable for all skin types.

What’s the difference between Multi-Peptide + HA Serum, Matrixyl 10% + HA, Argireline Solution 10%?

• Argireline Solution 10% is a targeted solution designed to improve the appearance of facial areas prone to deep-set lines, resulting in smoother, more relaxed skin.
• Matrixyl 10% + HA focuses primarily on supporting skin firmness while targeting the look of fine lines.
• Multi-Peptide + HA Serum is a multi-technology formulation designed to target multiple signs of aging at once, including the look of fine lines and wrinkles, firmness, and elasticity. This multi-technology formulation includes Argireline, Matrixyl, and a number of other peptides to help achieve these results.

Can peptides be combined with other actives?

Yes, peptides can generally be combined with other actives. However, we don’t recommend using them in the same routine as direct acids or L-ascorbic acid (vitamin C), as low pH environments can potentially reduce the benefits of peptides. Instead, consider using these ingredients in separate routines to optimize their benefits.

Are there any negative effects associated with peptide use?

Our peptide formulations are generally suitable for most skin types, including sensitive skin. However, as with any skincare product, we recommend performing a patch test before full application to ensure compatibility.

How long does it take to see results from using skincare products?

Results may vary in time, depending on the product, usage, and each individual’s skin concern. The key is to remain patient and consistent with usage.

Can peptides target more than signs of aging?

Peptides remain key ingredients for signs of aging; however, they can also target and support hair density and many other skin concerns, such as uneven tone and texture.

Whether you’re new to using peptides or are an established peptide enthusiast, layering skincare with peptides is a promising avenue for supporting overall healthy-looking skin and hair density.

Ready to add the power of peptides to your daily skincare? Try our personalized Skincare Regimen Builder today and get a tailored regimen to suit your skin type and goals.