Natural Alternatives to Synthetic Peptides in Skin Products

Peptides have been a buzz word in skincare for the last decade, due to their anti-ageing ability for skin. They are one of the gold star anti-ageing ingredients and thought to be second only to retinol in terms of anti-ageing performance, which seems to be agreed by most beauty dermatologists. So naturally at Nakin we take a lot of interest in them, as our work is dedicated to producing the best natural anti-ageing skincare that is possible. Conventional peptides are synthetic, so we have looked for the best natural alternatives to using them in skincare, as at Nakin we believe that natural ingredients are more beneficial for our skin than synthetic ones. In this feature we look at different natural options to synthetic peptides, including a plant peptide that we use in our natural anti-ageing face products range.

Peptides are big in anti-ageing skincare due to their ability to regenerate skin. You have probably heard people talking about peptides as they have lots of beautifying benefits. There are many different types of synthetic peptides that are used in the cosmetic industry; such as pentapeptides, tetrapeptides and hexapeptides. These peptides are short chains of amino acids and are the foundation of proteins. They are the proteins found in our skin, collagen, elastin and keratin. So, they are good at repairing skin by boosting collagen production, smoothing skin and helping with firmness. In lots of skincare the peptides used are synthetic versions. They are easy to spot in cosmetic products as the name peptide will generally appear in the product ingredient list, so it is quite easy to avoid them. As much as they make us look youthful, we should remember that these are unnatural ingredients and they can cause skin irritation, as we have heard from many of our customers. Vogue magazine also report that there are so many different types of peptide that it is difficult to generalise, but some may cause irritation for certain skin types. So, take extra care if you have sensitive skin.

Synthetic peptides should not really be used before the age of 30, whereas natural peptides can be used at any age, as there is no risk to using them for the skin. At Nakin we always believe that natural is better, so we prefer to use natural ingredients that mimic the results of synthetic peptides in all of our face products. The natural alternatives to synthetic peptides that we love are listed below.

Hibiscus

At Nakin we use a powerful natural plant peptide which is from hibiscus extract. It's a truly amazing ingredient as it has the ability to smooth out lines naturally, and this is why we love it so much. We use it in our Eye Cream Complex and Performance Face Serum, which when used together cover the face and neck for a complete natural youthful complexion.

Pomegranate

Pomegranates are a skin wonder ingredient that are packed with amino acids. Applying products with pomegranate in helps skin to fight free radical damage from the intense antioxidant content, plus promotes collagen and elastin production as synthetic peptides do. This is why we include pomegranate extract in all of our lotions and creams. Find them in our anti-ageing Advanced Cleansing Milk and powerful anti-ageing Performance Face Serum plus Eye Cream Complex.  Then in our anti-ageing moisturisers which include the Active Dew Face Cream for normal, dry and sensitive skin and Matt Formula Face Cream for normal, oily and sensitive skin.

Seaweed Extract

It is no wonder that seaweed extract in skincare products makes a great alternative to synthetic peptide ingredients. The sea is such a diverse rich ecosystem, where life is intensely boosted by the water and life-giving sun. Seaweed is actually the main active ingredient in Crème De La Mer products, as it has such amazing anti-ageing benefits. But you do not need to spend hundreds of pounds to use face products with seaweed in, as we use it as much as possible in Nakin’s Natural Skincare Range. We love it, especially in our natural Purifying Face Toner which detoxes skin but also conditions and tones.

Baobab Seed Oil

This is one of our favourite plant oils packed with fatty acids. As the seeds are so rich in protein this makes it an excellent natural alternative to synthetic peptides. It is still not that well known, but the benefits to the skin are immense. The protein structure allows it to assist in improving skin elasticity and it also delivers a cocktail of vitamins and omega oils for superb natural anti-ageing benefits. This is why we use it in lots of Nakin’s face products, including our stunning Revitalising Face Oil and our plumping Lip Treatment Balm.  

The one thing that synthetic and natural peptides have in common is that they are both hugely anti-ageing to skin, but not in an overnight sort of way. They are both slow and steady ways to improve skin that helps it to look as good as it can and renew itself.

Why we Prefer Natural Alternatives to Using Synthetic Peptides in Skin Products

Our customers mostly prefer natural alternatives to synthetic peptides in skin products for several compelling reasons. Firstly, natural ingredients are perceived to be safer and gentler on the skin, reducing the likelihood of irritation or adverse reactions that can sometimes be associated with synthetic compounds. Additionally, natural alternatives often boast a variety of benefits, including hydration, anti-inflammatory properties, and antioxidant protection, thanks to the complex mix of naturally occurring compounds. Moreover, with a growing emphasis on sustainability and eco-friendly practices, many of us are drawn to natural products, which are often sourced and manufactured with environmental responsibility in mind. This shift towards natural ingredients reflects a broader trend of seeking holistic and sustainable skincare solutions.

In recent years, there has been a significant increase in demand for natural skincare products. This can be attributed to an increasing awareness of the potential harmful effects of synthetic chemicals on both our skin and the environment. As consumers become more conscious of what they are putting on their bodies, they are also becoming more selective about the ingredients used in their skincare products.

Another reason for the popularity of natural alternatives is that they often have a simpler and kinder list of ingredients compared to synthetic options. This appeals to those of us who prefer simplicity and transparency in their skincare routine. By using fewer, but more potent, all-natural ingredients, our customers can feel confident knowing exactly what they are applying to their skin.

Furthermore, with the rise of wellness and self-care practices, natural skincare aligns perfectly with this trend. Many people are looking to incorporate more natural and holistic approaches to their overall health and wellbeing, and this includes their skincare routine. By using products derived from nature, individuals can feel a deeper connection to the Earth while also nourishing their skin.

In addition to being beneficial for consumers, choosing natural ingredients can also have a positive impact on the environment. The use of sustainably sourced ingredients helps reduce the carbon footprint of the beauty industry, which is known for its excessive waste and pollution. Plus, many natural alternatives come in eco-friendly packaging, further reducing their environmental impact.

It's important to note that not all natural skincare products are created equal. With the increasing demand for natural options, there has been a rise in greenwashing – the practice of marketing a product as natural when it may only have a small proportion of natural ingredients in the formula. This is why it's crucial to do thorough research and read ingredient labels carefully to ensure that the products you are using truly align with your values and expectations.

Overall, the popularity of natural skincare reflects a larger shift towards conscious consumerism and an increased focus on overall health and wellness. As more we prioritise sustainable and ethical choices, we love to have more natural options to choose from. So whether you're already a fan of natural skincare or just starting to explore its benefits, incorporating these products into your routine can have positive impacts on both yourself and the world around you. Let's continue to support brands that prioritise natural ingredients and sustainability, and make a difference in our own lives and the health of our planet. 

To find out more about Nakin and our award winning natural anti-ageing skincare then visit us at www.nakinskincare.com All Nakin products are a special cocktail blend of the best skin loving plant actives, so they all work on a multitude of skin requirements. The silky textures and delicate natural aromas are kind to even very sensitive skin and are now the cult favourites of many. Using the full range will help your skin to be brighter, clearer, plump and glowing. They are also affordable to all, cruelty free and made in the UK.