Synthetic Peptides in Cosmetics
Synthetic peptides have been applied to the cosmetic industry’s top cosmetic lines in recent years, adding value to their top cosmetic lines. Synthetic peptides also brought glitz to the top end of the cosmetics industry, as well as a higher price tag. But, do peptides really improve skin care? To answer that question, we need to understand a little biology. It is well known that the human body produces a number of growth factors, which are proteins that are responsible for the proliferation of specific types of human cells; for example, epidermal growth factor (EGF) is a 53 amino acid long protein that regulates cell proliferation. Stanley Cohen, who received the Nobel Prize for this work, discovered this protein in 1986. It has been used in the cosmetic industry since 1989. Six cysteines form three disulfide bridges in the protein, resulting in the unique three-dimensional structure that confers bioactivity. see this
There are also other peptides, such as the RGD peptide, which is derived from fibronectin; this short trimer acts as a cell adhesion factor, allowing cells to form multilayers when they divide; hence, it is essential in tissue forming.
Unbeknownst to most of us, the skin is the largest organ in the human body, covering the whole body; as such, it serves not only as a defensive layer, but also as an immunological, metabolic, and thermoregulatory system. The epidermis, dermis, and hypodermis are the three layers that make up the skin. The epidermis is the skin’s outer layer, which serves as a protective barrier. Active ingredients that preserve and sustain skin health are highly desired in the cosmetic industry, as are any compounds that have a beneficial effect on the skin.