What Are Peptides in Skincare & When Should You Use Them?

Peptides get a lot of hype in the skincare world—and honestly? They deserve it. This powerful family of amino acids benefits your skin in all the important ways, from activating collagen production to delivering deep hydration, helping to maintain a youthful, glowing complexion.

But first things first —what even are peptides? Let’s break it down, then we’ll show you exactly how to work them into your routine. 

So…What Are Peptides?

Peptides are small but mighty chains of amino acids (aka the building blocks of protein) that your skin needs to stay strong and bouncy. They help form collagen, elastin, and keratin—aka the dream team for firm, smooth skin. 

You can get peptides through food (think meat, fish, beans, oats, soy, flax), but if you want skin-specific results, peptide-packed skincare is where it's at.

How Do Peptides Work in Skincare?

Peptides are tiny but mighty—and your skin loves them. Here's why:

• They signal your skin to produce more collagen and elastin= firmer, smoother skin vibes. They strengthen the skin barrier, boosting hydration and protecting you from stressors like pollution They calm redness and irritation, especially great for sensitive skin. And because they’re smaller than full-on proteins, they absorb easily and actually do something= making them a no-brainer addition to topical products like our Skinbeam Milky Serum.

Peptides = Skin Longevity

Skin longevity is all about the art of aging well. It’s not about stopping time—it’s about keeping your skin healthy and resilient long-term. Peptides support that by: 

• Encouraging your skin to make more collagen + elastin

• Strengthening your barrier (your skin’s first line of defense)

• Targeting fine lines and dullness at the root—not just covering them up

Basically, they’re skincare overachievers. We get into the full science on our Longevity 101 page if you want the deep dive.

Types of Peptides in Skincare (Because Yes, There Are Different Kinds)

Not all peptides are created equal—some are extra special. Here's the quick breakdown:

• Signal peptides act as messengers, telling your skin to make more collagen and elastin.

• Carrier peptides deliver minerals like copper and magnesium to help the skin repair itself. 

• Enzyme-inhibiting peptides slow down the breakdown of collagen so your skin stays firm longer Neurotransmitter peptides are a natural alternative to Botox that relax facial muscles and soften wrinkles.

When Should You Start Using Peptides 

Short answer: now. Peptides are safe and effective for all skin types, and the sooner you start, the better your skin will age.

Here’s how peptides support you through the decades:

• 20s: Prevent collagen breakdown, boost hydration, and set a solid foundation

• 30s & 40s: Stimulate collagen + maintain elasticity

• 50s and beyond: Strengthen, repair, and keep your skin feeling supported as natural peptide levels dip

Start with a product like Skinbeam Milky Serum in the AM, right after cleansing—it’s the easiest way to level up your daily routine.

How Often Can You Use Peptides?

The Good news: peptides are gentle enough for daily use—morning and night, as they are gentle and non-irritating, unlike other active ingredients. 

Our Skinbeam Milky Serum is powered by peptides and designed for use in the morning for the ultimate refresh. It works with hyaluronic acid for next-level hydration, plus vitamin C to even out your skin tone and create a smooth surface to apply makeup (if you want to).

But just a heads up: While peptides are safe to use alongside most ingredients, we recommend you avoid mixing them with highly acidic formulas like AHAs that may break them down.

Final Thoughts: Are Peptides Worth It?

Absolutely. Peptides are kind of like the reliable friend in your skincare lineup—low drama, high impact.

They help firm, hydrate, repair, and protect. And when you combine them with hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, and a healthy routine? You’re setting your skin up to thrive.

Our Skinbeam Milky Serum packs peptides, hyaluronic acid, and tonka bean extract (so your skin is glowing and your morning feels like a mini spa moment). Add it to your routine and consider your skin one step closer to its long-term best.

Need help figuring out where to start? Hit us up at hello@timebeam.com—we’re always down to talk skincare.

Sources

Hoffman, A. (2025, March 1). Editor favorite peptide skincare products, tested in 2025. Byrdie. https://www.byrdie.com/peptide-skincare-editor-tested-review-11687244

Allure Editors. (2024, November 1). 12 best wrinkle serums of 2024, according to dermatologists. Allure. https://www.allure.com/story/best-wrinkle-serums