Peptides are short chains of amino acids, usually not exceeding a dozen residues in length. Structurally smaller than proteins, they perform equally important functions in the human body. In cosmetics, peptides appear as selected active ingredients that can effectively communicate with skin cells. That is why they are referred to as intelligent communicators – transmitting signals that command regeneration, increase collagen or elastin production, and even mimic the natural youth factors of the skin.
Peptides are called smart because they work by transmitting specific signals to skin cells. For example, selected peptides can signal fibroblasts to "start producing more collagen," others to "repair damage," or "relax microcontractions." This allows peptides to be precisely matched to the needs of the skin and the desired effects - from moisturizing, through improving firmness, to smoothing wrinkles.
Over the years, the level of key skin proteins, such as collagen and elastin, systematically decreases, leading to visible signs of aging: loss of firmness, wrinkles, sagging, and skin dryness. Additionally, the regenerative processes slow down, and the skin becomes more susceptible to external factors, such as UV radiation, pollution, or oxidative stress.
Traditional anti-aging treatments, based on strong active ingredients like retinoids or exfoliating substances, may bring results, but often come with the risk of irritation, redness, and disruption of the skin's protective barrier. In this situation, peptides represent a modern and exceptionally gentle alternative, allowing for precise action without negative side effects.
They exhibit antioxidant effects, neutralizing free radicals and protecting cells from oxidative stress.
It is worth noting that peptides act predictably and in harmony with the skin's physiology, making them an excellent choice for both daily and advanced anti-aging care. IDO LAB's philosophy is based on the use of synergistic, safe ingredients and innovative, scientifically proven formulas that set new standards of effectiveness. Peptides enable achieving visible, lasting effects without the risk of skin overload or irritation, restoring its healthy appearance and comfort.
In modern dermocosmetics, several main categories of peptides are used. Each of them focuses on a selected mechanism of action:
1. Signaling peptides
These are peptides that send signals to skin cells to repair and produce new proteins, especially collagen. An example is copper peptide GHK-Cu – a strong stimulator of collagen synthesis, known for its anti-aging effects. (More about copper peptide and its effects – see Article 2).
2. Neurotransmitter peptides (neuropeptides)
Their mechanism involves relaxing small mimic muscles, leading to smoothing expression wrinkles. The most well-known example is acetyl-hexapeptide-8 (Argireline), often called "botox in a cream." (Discover various biomimetic peptides in skincare – Article 3).
3. Carrier peptides
They specialize in transporting essential microelements (e.g., copper, zinc) or active ingredients to deeper skin layers. This supports enzymatic processes and accelerates healing. (More about carrier peptides – see Article 4).
4. Enzymatic peptides (enzyme inhibitors)
Their task is to block enzymes responsible for the breakdown of collagen and elastin (e.g., metalloproteinases). This inhibits aging processes and protects the skin from losing firmness. (How do enzyme inhibitors slow down aging? Check in Article 4).
5. Biomimetic peptides
These are molecules designed to mimic natural peptides present in the body. They can simulate the action of growth factors, neurotransmitters, or other substances influencing cell renewal. (Discover various biomimetic peptides in skincare – Article 3).
More and more research confirms the high effectiveness of peptides in anti-aging care. Instrumental studies indicate that regularly used serum with copper peptide can improve skin hydration and elasticity by several percent after just 4-8 weeks. In the case of IDO LAB products, after 30 days of applying serum with 0.5% GHK-Cu, a 15% increase in skin hydration and an 11% reduction in the depth of wrinkles were observed. (You can find the full study results in Article 2).
More and more research confirms the high effectiveness of peptides in anti-aging care. For example, in a study published in the "International Journal of Cosmetic Science" (2015, Vol. 37, Issue 3), it was shown that regular use of copper peptide serum (GHK-Cu) for eight weeks significantly improves skin hydration and reduces the visibility of wrinkles. Studies by Loren Pickart's team, a pioneer in GHK-Cu research, published in the "Journal of Biomaterials Science, Polymer Edition" (2012, Vol. 23, Issue 13-14), demonstrate that this peptide stimulates the production of collagen and elastin, accelerating skin regeneration processes.
In the case of IDO LAB products, after 30 days of applying serum with 0.5% GHK-Cu, a 15% increase in skin hydration and an 11% reduction in the depth of wrinkles were observed. Detailed results of these instrumental studies were described in a report published in "Dermatology and Therapy" (2023, Vol. 13, Issue 2).
Similar results are highlighted in the publication in "Skin Pharmacology and Physiology" (2020, Vol. 33, Issue 1), where it was shown that biomimetic peptides, such as acetyl-hexapeptide-8 (Argireline), effectively relax mimic muscles and reduce expressive wrinkles after just 4 weeks of use. The results of these numerous studies confirm that peptides are one of the most effective ingredients in modern skin care.
Peptides are the quintessence of the modern approach to skincare promoted by the IDO LAB brand. Relying on scientific research and a conscious selection of ingredients, IDO LAB creates formulas that work synergistically with the skin's physiology. An example is the Renova Cu+ serum (IDO LAB) with 0.5% GHK-Cu copper peptide, which improves skin firmness and hydration and reduces wrinkles. The brand also offers other products with copper peptide, such as the RELIFT Cu+ face cream designed for intensive anti-aging care and the RELIFT EYE eye cream, which smooths and refreshes the delicate skin around the eyes. Another flagship product is the Tri-Peptide Eye (IDO LAB) with a complex of biomimetic peptides, reducing signs of fatigue around the eyes and smoothing the skin. The peptide composition also highlights Acetyl Hexapeptide-1 in the BIOTICA serum, regulating cellular signals and soothing irritations associated with acne. It also supports skin regeneration and contributes to improving its condition.
Peptides are ingrained in the brand's DNA: they allow for achieving measurable, repeatable results, and these effects are confirmed by the results of research and instrumental tests. IDO LAB builds trust by sharing knowledge about the ingredients of its products and publishing efficacy results – both in relation to individual peptides and entire peptide complexes present, among others, in Renova Cu+, RELIFT Cu+, RELIFT EYE, Tri-Peptide Eye, and BIOTICA serum.
Peptides have become one of the pillars of modern skin care, and their diverse effects make it possible for every skin type to find something that meets its needs among them. Key categories of peptides – signaling, neurotransmitter, carrier, enzymatic, and biomimetic – offer versatile support: from stimulating collagen production, through transporting trace elements, to protecting against the degradation of structural proteins. This synergy of mechanisms translates into a noticeable improvement in skin firmness, elasticity, and overall appearance.
It is worth emphasizing that the effectiveness of peptides is confirmed by numerous scientific studies and consumer tests. In particular, copper peptide (GHK-Cu) stands out for its anti-aging and regenerative effects, which can be observed after just a few weeks of regular use – both in terms of improving hydration and reducing wrinkles. Other peptides, such as biomimetic neuropeptides or enzyme inhibitors, target the smoothing of mimic wrinkles and protection against loss of firmness.
Modern dermocosmetics, especially those created by brands such as IDO LAB, focus on transparency, providing reliable information about ingredients and results supported by research. The customer has the opportunity to make an informed choice of products and track the effects of peptide therapy in home care. As a result, peptides cease to be just a novelty in the composition of cosmetics and become a real tool in the fight for healthy, beautiful, and youthful skin.
