AUTEUR is built upon the power of peptides. As a peptide-first skincare brand that conducts independent clinical trials to determine, implement and continually refine the best peptides for skin, the business of overturning misinformation and revealing truths is core to AUTEUR’s existence. So, let’s stop the discourse: here are the clinical facts about peptide performance in skincare - direct from the experts.
What are peptides in skincare? A scientific primer
Derived from the Greek word ‘peptos’, meaning ‘digested’, peptides are binding molecules that naturally occur in skin cells – and all over the body – made up of amino acids. Bound together, they become proteins; those responsible for a wealth of foundational cell functions like collagen and elastin production.
With these proteins – which break down and reproduce as part of the digestive cycle – skin looks younger, acts younger, and ages healthily. Without them, skin loses plumpness and structure, wrinkles form, and texture can be compromised.
Not all skincare peptides are equal: Understanding types and functions
Simply searching ‘peptide serum’ or seeking out a trending ingredient will not equal results. Beware of those peptides, for example, that bring little more to a skincare formula than a silky, luxurious texture that delivers only a temporary improvement.
Truth: Peptides vary significantly in structure, form and function. Their binding nature means that, just as they bind to one another to form proteins, they have the incredible ability to bind to other skin molecules to regulate cell functions – and even alter communication between cells:
Signal peptides, like Growth Factor Tripeptide and Gold Pro-Collagen Peptide, trigger collagen production and fibronectin synthesis (for skin firmness), whilst reducing wrinkle depth.
Neuropeptides, like SYN®-AKE Peptide and Bio-Reprogramming Peptide, work similarly to Botox, by inhibiting muscle muscular contractions and smoothing expression lines.
Zinc peptides, like Collagen Crosslink Peptide, can balance oil production with additional anti-inflammatory benefits.
See: Definitive Collagen Activator Serum, Definitive Renewal Serum, Composition No. 1 Serum, Definitive Density Cream
Beyond lines and wrinkles: The full-spectrum benefits of peptides for skin
Though peptides famously hold the unique power to perform a reversing effect on already-present wrinkles, that’s far from all they’re capable of.
Truth: Due to their diversity in form and function, peptides offer an exhaustive range of skincare benefits. Responsible for skin strength, texture and resilience, the proteins formed by peptides are key not only to enhancing and maintaining skin firmness, but also to hydration and overall skin solace.
Reducing inflammation and equalising skin tone. Peptides help calm skin, even out tone and support barrier health.
Healing and hydration. Copper and carrier peptides, like SYN®-HYCAN, support wound repair and increase glycosaminoglycan synthesis—a natural process key to skin hydration.
Barrier strength and texture. Signal and enzyme-inhibiting peptides, like Myocept Peptide, enhance barrier integrity, reduce moisture loss and smooth texture.
Can you use peptides with retinol or Vitamin C? Yes - here’s how
While the blind layering of peptide formulas with other skincare is not a wise approach – some ingredients, like AHAs, for example, cancel out their benefits – peptide performance is only fully activated in synergy with other complementary ingredients.
Truth: When layered wisely, peptides harmonise seamlessly with Retinol and Vitamin C to enhance each other’s age-defying and equalising benefits.
Retinol, when paired with peptides, performs cellular turnover more efficiently for faster, optimised results.
Vitamin C, particularly L-Ascorbic Acid, can be used prior to peptide skincare for enhanced radiance. Wait 5-10 minutes after Vitamin C to apply your peptide formula—this preserves pH integrity.
See: Composition No.1 Serum, Lifting Toner
Peptides can benefit all skin types: Why younger skin needs them too
They may be best-known for igniting rapid results in skin as it visibly yields to signs of ageing—yet in fact, some peptides work quietly below the surface on the fundamentals of skin structure.
Truth: Prevention can come before cure. Collagen decline typically begins at 20-25: this is influenced by biological ageing, but also by factors like stress and environmental damage. Though a natural process, the early signalling of collagen and elastin production is proven to help prevent the damage that causes skin to age prematurely.
Some peptides, like Collagen Crosslink Peptide, actively maintain the structural integrity of collagen to prevent degradation before it begins—rather than simply targeting established signs of ageing.
See: Definitive Collagen Activator Serum
Can peptides replace sunscreen? The answer Is no - And here’s why
While peptides – like antioxidants – offer a level of support against UV damage with skin barrier defence, their only role with regards to sun protection is to complement your SPF by enhancing its performance and aiding repair post-sun exposure.
Truth: There is no substitute for sunscreen. SPF is a robust cosmetic solution that absorbs UV and prevents sun damage—while peptides do not.
Complement your SPF with peptide-powered hydration. First, apply your choice of AUTEUR peptide serum or cream, wait 5 minutes, then follow with Sun Drops as the final step in your skincare ritual.
Do peptides really absorb into skin? The case for encapsulation
Some lower-price and drugstore brands feature peptides, so why invest in a clinical product?
Truth: Without encapsulation, most peptides degrade or dissipate within just 2 hours of application, often before they’ve had a chance to penetrate beyond the uppermost layers of skin. The result? Limited efficacy and wasted potential.
Upgrade efficacy with encapsulated peptides
Encapsulation technology - particularly liposomal delivery systems - enables peptides to remain stable and biologically active for up to 72 hours post-application. These microscopic, lipid-based spheres mimic skin’s own cellular membranes, allowing peptides to:
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Penetrate deeper into the skin barrier
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Release actives gradually over time for prolonged efficacy
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Target specific receptors with higher precision
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Achieve superior results using lower concentrations
This time-release, biomimetic delivery transforms peptide performance from fleeting to functional - powering long-term results in firmness, texture, and resilience.
See: Composition No. 1 Serum, Definitive Eye Cream
The golden rules of peptide skincare
Knowledge is only the beginning—results come with ritual. Define your skincare with precision by following the AUTEUR principles of intelligent peptide use. Begin with the facts, then build a routine that meets the unique needs of your skin - elevated, effective, and unmistakably yours.
Make an informed decision. Do your research. Seek out peptides tailored to your personal skin goals, e.g. Signal peptides for loss of firmness, Neuropeptides for expression lines, Zinc peptides for oil regulation.
Layer wisely. First use Vitamin C skincare, wait 5‑10 minutes, then apply your peptide formula. Follow with Retinol in the evenings only.
Prevent first, cure later. Even in your 20s, peptides provide support against early skin damage while helping maintain skin structure and elasticity.
Complement, don’t substitute. Always pair peptides with sunscreen and hydration.
Consistency equals results. In-house clinical trials reveal that, with consistent use, AUTEUR peptide skincare delivers noticeable improvements in skin after just 4 to 6 weeks.
