You hear the word over and over again, but what are peptides? And why do we want them in our skin-care products?  According to Boca Raton, FL, aesthetician Cheryl Staurowsky, peptides are an often overlooked skincare ingredient. “Unfortunately consumers will choose exfoliating agents because that’s all they hear about. Although exfoliating is important, peptides have many properties, all of which support the necessary changes we all like to see in our skin as we age.” Peptides help produce the collagen and elastin that keeps her skin looking supple, both of which decline as we age.

Found in all of your cells, peptides are made up of two or more amino acids attached together with peptide bonds. (They’re similar to proteins, but smaller.)  Products that include peptides help with healing the skin and increasing collagen production. These products can even remove damaged collagen from scar tissue and promote better healing after a chemical peel or laser resurfacing treatment. In order for them to work, they must be included in a formula that effectively penetrates the skin.

One to try: Perricone MD Hypoallergenic Peptide Complex works to improve your skin's resiliency, tone and texture with potent ingredients. It's packed with peptides to provide anti-aging effects like minimizing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles but it's also designed to be gentle enough for use directly after a cosmetic procedure or for those with sensitive skin.