A Comprehensive List of Peptides and What They Do

Written by: Radhika Sen

Updated on: 12 Feb 2025

Peptides are powerful ingredients transforming the skincare world with their ability to repair, hydrate, and rejuvenate the skin. Known for their role in improving skin health and targeting signs of ageing, peptides are now a go-to solution in the beauty industry. Medik8’s innovative peptide formulations harness advanced technologies to deliver visible results, offering a tailored approach to skin repair and anti-ageing.

What are peptides and what do they do to your skin?

Peptides are short chains of amino acids. They act as messengers in skincare, signalling the skin to boost collagen, repair damage, and enhance hydration. Unlike natural peptides in the body, skincare formulations use synthetic peptides designed to penetrate deeply thanks to their small molecular size. This versatility allows peptides to target specific concerns like fine lines, firmness, and hydration, making them essential in age-defying skincare routines.

Types of peptides in skincare

Not all peptides are created equal - each type offers unique benefits for your skin. From boosting collagen to enhancing hydration, discover the key peptide categories and how they target specific skin concerns.

Signal peptides

Peptides that stimulate skin cells to produce collagen, elastin, and other proteins.

Function
Signal peptides work by prompting the skin’s natural processes to enhance firmness and renew skin texture. Matrixyl 3000 is a key example, helping restore collagen and elastin production for youthful skin.

Benefits
✓ Boost collagen and elastin
✓ Improve skin elasticity and firmness
✓ Reduce the appearance of fine lines

Ideal for:
Mature skin seeking to restore
firmness and smoothness.

Examples:
Matrixyl 3000, Syn-Coll

Carrier Peptides

Peptides that deliver essential minerals and nutrients to skin cells to support repair and nourishment.

Function
Carrier peptides help transport vital minerals, like copper, to skin cells, aiding in skin repair and nourishment. They play a key role in stimulating collagen and elastin production while reducing inflammation.

Benefits
✓ Stimulate collagen and elastin production
✓ Aid in skin repair and regeneration
✓ Reduce inflammation and promote healing

Ideal for:
Damaged, compromised skin that needs repair and nourishment.

Examples:
Copper Peptide, GHK-Cu

Enzyme-inhibitor peptides

Peptides that help maintain skin structure by blocking enzymes responsible for breaking down collagen and elastin.

Function
Enzyme-inhibitor peptides work by blocking enzymes like matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) that break down collagen and elastin, helping to preserve skin’s firmness and elasticity.

Benefits
✓ Slows degradation of collagen and elastin
✓ Supports skin structure and elasticity
✓ Prevents signs of ageing

Ideal for:
Ageing skin, particularly those looking to maintain skin’s firmness and reduce wrinkles.

Examples:
Matrixyl 3000, Acetyl Hexapeptide-8

Neurotransmitter-inhibitor peptides

Neurotransmitter-inhibitor peptides are advanced compounds that mimic a botox-like effect by inhibiting the release of neurotransmitters, helping to smooth fine lines and wrinkles.

Function:
These peptides block muscle contractions, preventing the formation of expression lines while promoting a smoother, more youthful appearance.

Benefits:
✓ Slows the degradation of skin structure
✓ Reduces fine lines and wrinkles
✓ Enhances skin smoothness and elasticity

Use Case:
Ideal for mature or expression-prone skin types, these peptides reduce visible signs of ageing, improving skin texture.

Examples:
Acetyl hexapeptide-8, Pentapeptide-18.

Multifunctional peptides

Multifunctional peptides are advanced blends that address multiple skin concerns simultaneously, such as hydration, firmness, and wrinkle reduction, by targeting various skin pathways.

Benefits:
✓ Boosts collagen and elastin production
✓ Enhances hydration and skin barrier strength
✓ Reduces fine lines and uneven tone

Use Case:
Perfect for all skin types, especially ageing or dehydrated skin, for a comprehensive solution to multiple concerns.

Examples:
Copper peptides, Palmitoyl tripeptide-5.

Collagen stimulating peptides

Collagen-stimulating peptides work topically to signal the skin to produce more collagen, enhancing firmness and elasticity while reducing wrinkles. Unlike ingestible collagen supplements, which provide building blocks for overall skin health, these peptides actively boost skin renewal for visible, age-defying results. Over time, they also support moisture retention and hydration.

Medik8’s peptide technology

Medik8 integrates advanced peptide science into its formulations, providing precision skincare for visible, transformative results.

Peptide Description Primary Function Found In Recommended For
Collagen Peptides Signal Peptides Boosts collagen production for firmer, plumper skin. Liquid Peptides Perfect for those targeting loss of firmness, fine lines, and wrinkles as part of an anti-ageing routine.
Dual MiniProteins™ Multifunctional/
structural peptide 		Support skin repair, hydration, and structural integrity. Liquid Peptides Advanced MP Those looking for a filler-like effect on the look of wrinkles and visibly improve skin structure
Crystalide Peptides Bioactive Peptides Regulates skin clarity by promoting natural exfoliation and optimising skin renewal. Clarity Peptides For those seeking smoother, more radiant, and even-toned skin
Bakuchiol Peptides Growth Factor-Like Peptides Promotes repair and renewal with retinol-like effects. Bakuchiol Peptides For those who can’t use retinol or are seeking a gentler alternative (e.g. during pregnancy or while nursing) with similar age-defying benefits
Copper Peptides Carrier Peptides Delivers copper ions for repair and collagen synthesis. Liquid Peptides Advanced MP Ideal for boosting skin firmness, elasticity, and strengthening skin’s barrier function.
Matrixyl Peptides Signal peptide, and a well-known peptide complex (Matrixyl 3000) that signals fibroblasts to repair and produce structural proteins Reduces wrinkles and enhances elasticity for a more youthful appearance. Liquid Peptides/Eye Lift Peptides Those looking to target visible signs of ageing, particularly fine lines and wrinkles
Tetrapeptides Synthetic peptides made up of four amino acids Supports the skin's natural repair processes, reduces inflammation, and boosts collagen and elastin production. Liquid Peptides Advanced MP / Liquid Peptides Those looking to improve skin resilience, address ageing concerns, or soothe sensitive skin
Argireline Neuropeptide, often referred to as a "botox-like" peptide due to its ability to relax facial muscles. Targets the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, particularly on areas prone to expression lines, such as the forehead and around the eyes. Ideal for those who want to reduce the look of expression lines and are looking for an alternative to more invasive treatments like botox

Dual MiniProteins™: A World-first bio-technology

Dual MiniProteins™ are advanced structural signal peptides featuring a world-first bio-technology. Their compact size enables deeper penetration to effectively target skin concerns like fine lines, deep-set wrinkles, and expression lines. This peptide blend supports skin repair, hydration, and structural integrity. It helps visibly reduce signs of ageing, enhances skin plumpness, and strengthens its structure over time for a smoother, more youthful complexion.

Medik8’s Liquid Peptides Advanced MP’s breakthrough bio-technology: Dual MiniProteins™ combines Expression Line MiniProtein™ and Growth Factor MiniProtein™. The Expression Line MiniProtein™ helps to relax and smooth dynamic expression lines for visibly reduced wrinkle depth. Growth Factor MiniProtein™ visibly improves the appearance of skin structure by helping to support collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid levels, for smoother, firmer-looking skin in every drop.

Drone-targeted copper peptides

Another key technology in our latest peptide innovation, Liquid Peptides Advanced MP, is Drone-Targeted Copper Peptides, designed to deliver peptides deep into the skin where they are needed most. Different to copper peptides, this peptide system uses advanced encapsulation technology to ensure optimal absorption and efficacy for visible skin rejuvenation.

By precisely targeting collagen-producing fibroblast cells, this innovation helps:

☆ Stimulate collagen and elastin production,
☆ Promoting firmer, more youthful-looking skin,
☆ Enhance skin repair and resilience while maximising peptide absorption and minimising surface degradation.

Ideal for those seeking improved skin firmness, elasticity, and long-term rejuvenation, this cutting-edge peptide system ensures targeted delivery for visible results.

How to choose the right peptides for your skin types

When selecting peptides, consider your skin type and concerns. For fine lines and stubborn wrinkles, opt for signal peptides like Matrixyl 3000. Sensitive skin or those who are pregnant/nursing benefit from soothing options like Bakuchiol Peptides. For uneven tone, try Oxy-R Peptides.

Opt for leave-on formulas in opaque, airtight packaging to preserve potency, and choose products with supporting ingredients like antioxidants such as niacinamide, and ceramides for added hydration. Apply peptides after cleansing and before moisturising, ensuring they remain on the skin to maximise their effectiveness.

The bottom line

Peptides are transformative ingredients, capable of targeting a wide range of skin concerns, from fine lines to uneven tone and hydration. As pioneers in peptide technology, Medik8 offers expertly formulated solutions tailored for all skin types, combining breakthrough science with visible results. Explore Medik8’s peptide-powered products and unlock radiant, youthful-looking skin with the confidence of advanced skincare innovation.

FAQ's

What not to mix with peptides?

Avoid mixing peptides with highly acidic ingredients like L-ascorbic acid commonly found in vitamin C products, as these can destabilise peptides and reduce their effectiveness.

Which peptide is best for anti-ageing?

Signal peptides, such as Matrixyl 3000, and neurotransmitter-inhibitor peptides are ideal for reducing fine lines, improving firmness, and promoting collagen production.

Do peptides cause purging?

No, peptides do not typically cause purging. They work to support the skin’s natural processes rather than accelerating cell turnover like acids or retinoids.

What is best paired with peptides?

Peptides pair well with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, antioxidants, and nourishing ceramides for enhanced skin repair and anti-ageing benefits.

Do peptides clog pores?

No, peptides are lightweight and do not clog pores. They are suitable for most skin types, including oily and acne-prone skin.

What is the best peptide for the skin?

The best peptide depends on your skin’s concern. For anti-ageing, try Matrixyl 3000; for brightening, Oxy-R Peptides; for repair, Copper Peptides are excellent.

What peptides work like Botox?

Neurotransmitter-inhibitor peptides, such as Argireline, help relax expression lines, mimicking a Botox-like effect to smooth dynamic wrinkles.

What is the best healing peptide?

Copper peptides are exceptional for healing, promoting skin repair, reducing inflammation, and enhancing resilience.

Can you mix peptides?

Yes, peptides can be mixed with other ingredients and actives, but it’s best to combine complementary types, like signal peptides with carrier peptides, for comprehensive results without overloading the skin.

Radhika Sen

Radhika Sen

Radhika Sen is a skincare enthusiast and beauty writer. She's always on the lookout for a stellar serum and moisturiser combination, topped by a sunscreen that protects and primes. Her idea of self care is to pop on a face mask, light a scented candle and call it an early night.