What are peptides?
18th Mar 2026
As a doctor and longevity expert, I have always believed in the power of prevention – supporting the skin long before visible signs of aging appear.
In my research and clinical work, I have found peptides to be among the most intelligent tools in age prevention, helping protect against the breakdown of essential youth proteins and activating the processes that maintain strength, elasticity, and repair. I created THE PEPTIDE SERUM to enhance these biological processes, actively preserving the skin’s existing collagen and elastin reserves while encouraging their renewed synthesis to visibly slow skin aging.
What are peptides?
Peptides are short chains of amino acids that act as biological messengers, communicating with our skin cells to initiate specific functions. What excites me most is their targeted intelligence: certain peptides can stimulate fibroblasts to produce collagen and elastin; others can modulate inflammation; while some enhance the integrity of the skin barrier. I believe we are only beginning to understand their true potential. Peptides don’t just treat the skin – they guide it, through bioactive signalling, to regenerate and stay strong. They are essential tools for longevity and visible skin health.
How do peptides benefit the skin?
There are many different types of peptides, which offer various benefits. The main groups are signalling peptides, which encourage production of collagen and elastin; neurotransmitter-inhibiting peptides, which block the release of chemicals that trigger muscle contractions; carrier peptides that act as delivery mechanisms to transport essential minerals; enzyme-inhibiting peptides which slow down the skin’s natural breakdown of proteins; and microbiome-protecting peptides which help maintain a balanced complexion. Throughout my career, I’ve been particularly drawn to their ability to preserve collagen and elastin – the essential components of a smooth, firm, youthful complexion. My newest innovation, THE PEPTIDE SERUM, actively reinforces this process and is clinically proven to protect up to 90% of elastin and 63% of collagen.*
What is unique about The Peptide Serum?
What sets THE PEPTIDE SERUM apart is its high concentration of biomimetic peptides that help stimulate collagen production and support the skin’s natural structure. It contains a unique complex of peptides that work in complementary ways to reinforce collagen and elastin levels, support the skin barrier and visibly smooth lines and wrinkles. One key ingredient, Acetyl Octapeptide-3, helps relax muscle contractions for a Botox-like effect, while others act like personal trainers – encouraging your skin to build and store collagen over time. We also included an amino acid complex, which acts as a hydrating peptide booster, creating the optimal environment for peptides to perform at their best. Unlike topical collagen, which cannot penetrate the skin, THE PEPTIDE SERUM works by signalling the skin to preserve and stimulate its own collagen. I call this collagen banking – a proactive approach that focuses on preserving and stimulating collagen today, to support skin strength and structure, tomorrow.
Who are peptides for?
Peptides are highly effective for proactive age prevention and they’re also ideal for anyone targeting early signs of aging, such as fine lines, wrinkles, uneven texture, and loss of elasticity. Because peptides deliver visible results without compromising the skin barrier, they are generally suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
How can you add peptides into your skincare routine?
THE PEPTIDE SERUM is designed for use after Hyaluronic Acid-based serums, and before your moisturizer. A good, simple routine that works with every skin type is to start with my gentle foaming CLEANSER, followed by the HYALURONIC SERUM, THE PEPTIDE SERUM, then FACE CREAM. In my own routine, I also like to layer THE PEPTIDE SERUM with the SUPER ANTI-AGING NIGHT CREAM to support skin regeneration whilst I sleep.
What effects can I expect to see from The Peptide Serum?
With consistent use, clinical results show that skin appears +27%¹ firmer, with a +36%¹ improvement in skin elasticity, and a -38%¹ reduction in the appearance of lines and wrinkles. As part of a daily preventative skincare routine, THE PEPTIDE SERUM supports long-term resilience and visibly slows the signs of aging to maintain a youthful-looking appearance over time.
SIGNATURE: Dr. Barbara Sturm DATE: 18 March 2026
