The Differences Explained in Peptides vs Retinol Products

Does the thought of aging concern you? For the first time in history, according to The World Health Organization, most people will live into their 60s and older. A longer life also means softer and less tight skin. 

You might wonder what your options are to keep your skin looking young. This article will take a look at the differences between peptides vs retinol. Read on to explore all about these anti-aging options and see how they can help you look more youthful in time. 

What Are Peptides? 

Peptides are when your amino acids link together and form chains. When the chains occur it’s known as amino peptides. 

Amino peptides link together to create proteins. As collagen breaks down, the amino acid chains that are left are in the peptide category.

Collagen is made up of peptides. Many serums and creams contain peptides in order to keep a youthful appearance. 

What Is Collagen? 

Much of your skin is collagen. This is a protein that contains long chains of amino acids (the building blocks of protein). 

It’s what keeps your skin smooth, tight, and thick. As you become older, your collagen begins to thin. The breakdown of endogenous collagen is linked to many health problems. 

As you age, your body isn’t able to replace the collagen that it loses. This is because it’s produced at a slower rate when you get older. When your skin becomes drier and thinner, it can lead to wrinkles. 

What Is Retinol? 

Retinol is another term for Vitamin A. Retinol is also used for its anti-aging properties as well. Retinol is often used for acne too. 

It can be used on the back of your hands, chest, neck, and face. One of the benefits of retinol is for psoriasis and to prevent warts. This is because it interrupts the wart’s cell growth. 

One of the top myths of retinol is that you shouldn’t use it during the day. While it can break down in sunlight and should be applied at night, you’re not more prone to sunburns due to it. 

Another myth is that they exfoliate your skin. This isn’t true since the peeling and redness are due to irritation and not exfoliation. It can also be harsh for certain skin types. 

The Benefits of Peptides

Peptide supplements can come from either animal or plant sources. This can include soy, eggs, meat, milk, hemp seed, wheat, etc. 

Some common peptide supplements are creatine or collagen peptides. To build strength and muscle mass, you’ll want to take creatine. In order to potentially reverse the effects of aging, choose collagen peptides. 

Potential benefits include:

• Improved immune function
• Kills microbes
• Prevents the formation of blood clots
• Improves your immune function
• Lower your high blood pressure

Many choose peptides in order to slow down aging. Collagen peptides are easy for your body to absorb as well. It might also stimulate the production of melanin. 

Retinol vs Peptides

Whether you’re wondering about the benefits of retinol and peptides, it depends on your needs. For a less invasive option or for sensitive skin, choose peptides. 

You can also use peptides with your skincare routine and not have to worry about your body showing a result that you aren’t expecting. Peptides are a great alternative to retinol that many have forgotten about. They’re starting to make a comeback since they’re wrinkle fighters as well. 

Peptides and Vitamin C

For the strongest benefits of peptides, choose to combine peptides with Vitamin C. This is because Vitamin C helps you defend the cellular structures that peptides create. 

While you can use them separately and benefit, it’s best to use them together for the best effect. Choose a Vitamin C booster serum in the morning right before applying sunscreen. 

In the evening, you can use a retinol serum in order to decrease wrinkles and tighten your skin. This is a great way to brighten your skin as well. 

Safe Peptide Use

If you’re thinking of taking peptide supplements, speak with your doctor about any current medications, herbs, or medical conditions that you have. Make sure that you read the complete dosing guide and follow the instructions. 

Different Peptides

From tripeptides to dipeptides, there are different peptide supplements. Tripeptide comes from 3 amino acids that are joined by 2 or 3 peptide bonds.

The function of a protein is determined by amino acids and their sequence. Whereas, a dipeptide is composed of 2 amino-acid residues. They can either be the same or different. 

An example of a dipeptide is aspartame which is an artificial sweetener. They’re more water-soluble than amino acids on their own. They’re also white solids. 

Other peptides include palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7 and acetyl hexapeptide-8. Palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7 is safe for many skin types. There aren’t normally adverse reactions found. 

Acetyl hexapeptide-8 is often considered nontoxic and safe. Some might experience mild itching. It works similarly to Botox since it blocks the nerve impulses to facial muscles. This is fine as long as you don’t have a problem that causes limitations to the muscle activity in your face. 

Understanding the Differences Between Peptides vs Retinol

Now that you’ve explored this guide on the differences between peptides vs retinol, you should have a better idea of what to expect. Take your time picking out the right skincare routine.

Are you ready to get started on the different types of peptides and say hello to wrinkle-free skin? Check out our complete guide on the different types of peptides today.