Trusting new products on sensitive skin can be intimidating. However, peptides can soothe the appearance of fine lines, boost firmness and overall softness. The complete formula is what matters the most, just having peptides present won’t cut it. Individual tolerance is always unpredictable, even when dealing with gentle formulations.

Those looking to introduce sensitive skin anti aging into their routines should do so in stages. Skin Deva UK peptide infused skincare should help your visibly aging concerns, but as with everything new, go slowly and keep monitoring your skin as you add new products to your routine.

Why Sensitive Skin Reacts Differently to New Skincare 

Sensitive skin may hate new skincare products, but it does not mean that the products were formulated incorrectly. The skin’s condition and individual tolerance can be a factor in the way formulas feel on the skin.

• Dryness and discomfort: Symptoms of sensitive skin can include dryness, itching, stinging, redness and irritation.
• Compromised Barrier: A compromised skin barrier also allows sensitivity and irritation to substances that were not previously a problem.
• Ingredients that cause sensitivity: While a product may feel comfortable for one person, another can experience sensitivity from the product.
• The full formula: Just because you experienced sensitivity to a peptide serum, doesn’t mean you are sensitive peptides. It can be the other ingredients in the formula.

This is why it is best to evaluate a complete product rather than assessing suitability based on individual peptides.

Are Peptides Good for Sensitive Skin? 

For sensitive skin, peptides can be a good option as long as the whole formula is reviewed and taking individual sensitivities into account. Peptides are made up of a few amino acids and can assist with fine lines, skin firmness and texture. Our Complete Peptides Guide can provide more information on different types of peptides and what they can offer your skin.

Just because a product is labeled a gentle peptide serum, it doesn’t necessarily mean irritation will occur for a sensitive skin type, and peptides do not automatically make a product suitable for sensitive skin. Fragrance, other actives and preservatives, and the overall formula can all affect how sensitive skin reacts.

Which Peptides Might You See in a Serum? 

Peptide serums can contain various peptides and serve different functions in an anti-aging routine. With sensitive skin, know what your new product contains, but the peptide name alone cannot predicted if the whole product will be tolerated.

Matrixyl 3000

Matrixyl 3000 is a peptide complex often found in anti-aging skin care products for fine lines and wrinkles. Concentrated serums with Matrixyl 3000 can support the appearance of smoother, firmer skin and reduce fine lines, however sensitive skin should still assess the complete serum formulation, not just Matrixyl 3000.

Argireline

Argireline is known to be found in anti-aging formulas that target expression lines and wrinkles that are caused by repeated facial expressions and movements. It supports smoother skin, but still sensitivity is an issue and a new serum can irritate even sensitive skin.

Copper Peptides

Combining peptides with copper, copper peptide complexes, are utilized in anti-aging skin care formulations to aid in renewal of skin, skin health and appearance. These complexes can be found in skin care formulations for the appearance of smoother healthier skin. For more information read our guide What Is Copper Peptide and Why Is It in Your Serum?

Sensitivity to peptides cannot be known just by the name. How a formula feels on skin can be influenced by the supporting and active ingredients, concentration, and preservatives. A formulation should be assessed in its entirety and a gradual approach is needed even if a given peptide appears to fit that needed goal of the skin care regimen.

How to Introduce Peptides to Sensitive Skin 

Sensitive skin types should be introduced to peptides cautiously. Add one new product at a time to your routine. Allow your skin to adjust and test new products before using them often. It is best to follow the directions for use. Keep the rest of your routine simple. Avoid overuse. Sensitive skin types should use gentle cleansers and moisturizers. Several anti aging products can increase the chance of irritation. If the new products cause burning, itching, swelling, redness or discomfort, stop using these products immediately. Seek a dermatologist’s advice if the cause of the irritation is not known.

What Should a Gentle Peptide Routine Look Like? 

A simple, gentle routine should be used, especially if your skin reacts easily. Fewer products may be enough for a routine, as opposed to a number of complex products containing multiple active ingredients.

• Apply a gentle cleanser. It should remove daily buildup without leaving the skin dry, tight or uncomfortable.
• Use a peptide serum. Try a peptide serum based on the directions given and monitor the response of your skin.
• Apply a moisturizer. Use a moisturizer that will help to seal in moisture and protect the skin.
• Add a broad spectrum SPF. Use broad spectrum protection against the sun’s harmful rays.

A basic routine consisting of gentle cleansing, moisturizing and sun protection is a good outline for a sensitive skin routine.

Can You Combine Peptides with Other Ingredients If Your Skin Is Sensitive?

When using peptides, sensitive skin can still use other skincare ingredients, but it is best to do this gradually over time to see how the skin reacts.

Hyaluronic Acid

In serums, peptides and hyaluronic acid are formulated together and are effective in retaining moisture and giving the skin a soft, plump appearance without the need for an exfoliating step.

Niacinamide

Niacinamide also supports the barrier function of the skin, enhances moisture and overall skin comfort. High concentration of Niacinamide and sensitivity also still apply to sensitive skin. Please refer to our article Peptides + Niacinamide: Perfect Barrier Repair Routine for more information.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C also induces a bright complexion and provides protection against stressors. A strong or a low pH formulation of Vitamin C may require extra caution for sensitive skin. Avoid using new actives of Vitamin C, peptides and other new actives in combination as it becomes more challenging to determine the source of an irritation.

Is Skin Deva Peptide Power Blend Serum Suitable for Sensitive Skin? 

Peptide Power Blend Serum by Skin Deva combines Copper Peptide, Argireline and Matrixyl 3000 in a multi-peptide serum that addresses the appearance of fine lines while firming and smoothing the skin. This multi-peptide serum may be appropriate for those looking for a gentle, peptide serum. In the end, the complete formula and sensitivity will determine the serum’s appropriateness. Sensitive skin differs; therefore, it can not be assumed a peptide serum is universal. If you have easily irritated skin, apply the serum to a test patch and gradually incorporate the serum into a simple routine.

When Should You Stop Using a Peptide Serum? 

Don’t think of persistent irritation as just an adjustment period for your skin. If you get swollen, itchy or start getting rashes after using peptide serum, or after extended use, there is redness or any discomfort. Stop using it immediately, it could react badly to your skin. There may be another ingredient that does not suit your skin in the formula. The AAD advises users to stop using non-prescription skincare if there is stinging or burning. In case of severe and prolonged reactions, or if there is no apparent reason for the reaction, please contact a dermatologist or other health care professional.

Final Thoughts 

Peptide skincare can be used on even the most sensitive of skin types, though it does depend on the formulation and the individual skin response. The safest way to start introducing new products is by a simple routine and patiently assessing tolerance. It is always best to keep your routine simple rather than load up on actives that lead to an uncomfortable situation. Peptides have a good track record of addressing skin concerns that deal with an aging appearance. Gradual introduction of a good peptide serum can lead to visible improvement in the firmness and skin tone.

FAQs 

Are Peptides Effective for Sensitive Skin?

Peptides may help in creating firmer, smoother skin and reducing the appearance of fine lines. Results may vary with different types of peptides and formulae. Some research supports the use of peptides in cosmetics for sensitive skin, but clinical studies with sufficient data on patients with sensitive skin are lacking. Therefore, when evaluating a product for sensitive skin, one must examine the product beyond just the presence of peptides.

Can Peptide Serums Irritate Sensitive Skin?

They certainly can. Many factors affect the serum’s tolerance, and the peptides themselves may not be the primary culprit. The preservatives, fragrance, the remainder of the formula and other active ingredients can all impact irritation. Further, individuals respond very differently, and the best way to deal with a reactive/sensitive formula is to patch test.

Can Sensitive Skin Use Peptides Every Day?

Certain peptide products are safe for daily use, but it is always best to follow the directions for a specific product and not assume that a given peptide serum needs to be used daily. For sensitive users, it is best to use a product gradually and to increase use only with the confirmation that the formula is well tolerated.

Are Peptides Better Than Retinol for Sensitive Skin?

Peptides and retinol have different modes of action, and one cannot be used in place of the other. For visible signs of skin aging, retinoids have better research support, but they may also cause irritation and dry skin. For such users, peptides can be used as a less irritating alternative to retinol, but the results from their use may also not be the same as retinol’s.

How Do I Know If a Peptide Serum Is Irritating My Skin?

If the serum makes your skin burn, sting, itch, turn red and swell or you develop a rash or the skin around the serum application site becomes sensitive, stop using the serum. A serum contains multiple treatment components, so the presence of a reaction to the serum does not prove that the peptides contained in the serum are the problem. If your symptoms either continue or worsen, you should call your dermatologist or another qualified healthcare practitioner.