What are Peptides?

Peptides are some of the most quietly effective ingredients in skincare. They will not tingle or peel, but used consistently, they help skin look firmer, smoother and more resilient.

In this guide we cover what peptides are, the different types (including the SYN-AKE "snake" peptide behind our Wrinkle Killer range), and how to make them part of your routine.

Quick facts about Peptides

What are they?	Short chains of amino acids that act as messengers in the skin
What they do	Help skin look firmer, smooth the look of fine lines and expression lines, and support the barrier
Best for	All skin types, especially early signs of aging and loss of firmness
Pairs well with	Hyaluronic acid, retinol, vitamin C, niacinamide, ceramides
When to use	Morning and evening
Our top pick	skinChemists Wrinkle Killer Facial Serum

Key benefits at a glance

• Helps skin look firmer and more elastic
• Smooths the look of fine lines and expression lines
• Supports a healthy-looking skin barrier
• Non-irritating and suitable for sensitive skin
• Works well with almost every other ingredient
• Results build steadily with consistent use

What are peptides?

Peptides are short chains of amino acids, the building blocks of proteins like collagen and elastin. In skincare, specific peptides are designed to act as signals: they tell skin to behave in a certain way, such as supporting its own collagen production or relaxing the look of expression lines.

Because they work with your skin's natural processes rather than against them, peptides are extremely well tolerated.

Types of peptides

Type	Example on the label	What it does
Neuro-peptide ("snake" peptide)	Dipeptide Diaminobutyroyl Benzylamide Diacetate (SYN-AKE)	Inspired by a protein in temple viper venom; helps relax the look of expression lines
Signal peptide	Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-38	Helps support collagen for firmer-looking skin
Neuro-peptide	Acetyl Hexapeptide-8	Helps soften the look of expression lines
Carrier peptide	Copper Tripeptide-1	Delivers minerals that support skin repair

SYN-AKE contains no actual venom. It is a lab-made peptide designed to mimic one of venom's effects, which is why our Wrinkle Killer products use it.

Benefits of peptides for skin

Firmer-looking skin

Signal peptides help support skin's natural collagen, so it looks bouncier and more lifted over time.

Softer expression lines

Neuro-peptides like SYN-AKE help smooth the look of lines around the eyes and forehead.

Barrier support

Peptides help skin look and feel more resilient, especially when paired with hydrators.

Gentle on everyone

No purging, no peeling, no sun sensitivity, so they are an easy addition to any routine.

How to use peptides

1. Cleanser
2. Hyaluronic acid serum
3. Peptide serum
4. Peptide eye cream
5. Peptide moisturizer
6. SPF 30+ in the morning

Use peptides morning and night. Masks can be used one to two times a week for an extra boost.

Tip: Peptides love company. Pair with retinol at night and vitamin C in the morning for an all-day anti-aging routine.

Peptides vs. other ingredients

Pairing	OK together?	Notes
+ Hyaluronic acid	Yes, ideal	Instant plumping plus long-term firmness.
+ Retinol	Yes	Peptides support the skin while retinol renews it.
+ Vitamin C	Yes	Brightening plus firming.
+ Strong acids	Use separately	Very low pH products may reduce some peptides' effect; apply at different times.

Side effects and precautions

Peptides are among the gentlest actives available and side effects are rare. Patch test as with any new product. Peptides are generally considered suitable during pregnancy, but check with your doctor if you have concerns.

How long until you see results?

Timeline	What to expect
Immediately	Smoother, more hydrated-feeling skin
Week 4	Expression lines look softer
Week 8–12	Firmer, more elastic-looking skin with daily use

Frequently asked questions

This guide is for general information only and is not medical advice. Always patch test new skincare, and speak to your doctor or dermatologist about any skin concerns.