There are several types of peptides, distinguished by the signal they send to skin cells:
- Signal peptides: stimulate the production of proteins essential for the skin, such as collagen, elastin, proteoglycans, glycosaminoglycans, and fibronectin. Among these we find: Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-38.
- Metal ion and nutrient carrier peptides: facilitate the transport of trace elements or key nutrients (such as copper or biotin) essential for repair and regenerative processes. Among these we find: GHK-Cu, which transports copper to support cellular regeneration and improve skin sagging and luminosity; and Biotinoyl Tripeptide-1, which carries biotin directly to hair follicles to boost the strength and density of hair and eyelashes. It is particularly popular in products designed to strengthen fragile eyelashes, eyebrows, and hair.
- Enzyme-inhibiting peptides: directly or indirectly block enzymes that break down proteins essential for the skin. Among the main ones we find: Acetyl Tetrapeptide-5, peptides/amino acids derived from rice, soy, or silk.
- Neurotransmitter-inhibiting peptides: inhibit the release of acetylcholine at the neuromuscular junction, with a botox-like effect. An example is Tripeptide-3, used as an intensive anti-wrinkle active ingredient.