Retinoids are commonly found in a variety of anti-aging products, yet they have one major downside: they are known to cause skin irritation and flaking. Despite this, many people are still using retinoid-based anti-aging products for the simple fact that they feel they have no other choice. Thankfully, ingredients like peptides and the amino acids are taking center stage in the anti-aging skin care world, so you no longer have to choose between wrinkles and flaky, irritated skin. Take a look at the main differences between retinoids and peptides and the benefits of upgrading your anti-aging skin care routine to include these ingredients.
What Are Retinoids?
Retinoids are derivatives of vitamin A and work by increasing the turnover rate of skin cells. Because of this, topical retinoids, especially when used in highly concentrated prescription-strength formulas, cause the skin to flake and peel. To help ease these symptoms, dermatologists typically recommend that you slowly introduce your skin to retinoids once every two or three days at first. If you have dry or sensitive skin, you may never be able to increase the frequency when using retinoids. In addition, retinoids are also believed to be harmful to developing fetuses, so women are advised to discontinue using products that contain this ingredient while pregnant or breastfeeding.
What Are Peptides?
Peptides are naturally-occurring substances that form when two or more single amino acids join together to form a short chain. Along with the amino acids that create them, peptides are necessary components for all forms of life. In terms of anti-aging skin care, peptides are excellent ingredients because of these natural functions that they perform.
For example, a combination of the amino acids glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline produce the collagen proteins that give your skin its firm, youthful structure. By adding combinations of amino acids to your skin in the form of specially designed peptides, you can stimulate your skin’s natural collagen production for a smoother, more youthful complexion without any harsh side effects. Another amazing benefit of using peptides and amino acid skin care products is that they are not limited to just wrinkle creams. Look for these ingredients in your everyday products, too, like cleansers, moisturizers, and eye creams. Because peptides and amino acids don’t have adverse side effects like retinoids, you can use them throughout the day and in a variety of products.
Everyone Can Benefit
Although retinoids have long been used to treat acne and wrinkles, peptides and amino acids are quickly surpassing these harsh ingredients and becoming the anti-aging all-stars of the future. No matter your skin type, condition, or age, you can benefit from using peptides and amino acids in your skin care products, because these substances are already naturally present throughout your body.
Do you prefer peptides or retinoids? Why? What are some of your favorite products and why? Share your advice and tips on our community forum! Click here for 25% off your first purchase of AminoGenesis skin care.
Written by: AminoGenesis Skin Care. AminoGenesis products utilize the miracle of Amino Acid Skin Care Technology. Perfect for skin conditions such as severe sun damage, rosacea, dermatitis, psoriasis, eczema, and wrinkles. Cruelty-free (no animal testing). To stay up-to-date on the latest news and research about amino acids and peptides in skin care, sign up today to become an AminoGenesis Insider.
