Peptides are among the most discussed active ingredients in new generation anti-ageing cosmetics. In this guide we see what biotechnological peptides are, how they act on the skin and which ones ELAXO uses in its Made in Italy formulas.
What are peptides
Peptides are short chains of amino acids, the building blocks of proteins such as collagen and elastin. In cosmetics they are used as messengers: they communicate with the skin to promote processes linked to firmness, smoothness and quality of the skin surface.
The biotechnological peptides are produced through controlled synthesis processes, which help control purity and stability; efficacy still requires assessment of the finished formula.
How they work on the skin
Unlike a simple moisturizer, peptides work at a “signal” level: they help support the natural renewal mechanisms of the skin's appearance and counteract the appearance of expression wrinkles. The action is cosmetic and topical, progressive with continuous use.
Hexapeptide-12 (Palmitoyl hexapeptide-12) — in ELAXO Serum
Hexapeptide-12 is a precision biotechnological peptide that helps combat the appearance of expression lines, for visibly smoother skin. Its role and tolerance depend on the complete formulation. You can find it in PDRN Exosome Peptide Serum, where it appears in INCI as Palmitoyl hexapeptide-12.
The name you read on the label and what the peptide is commonly called almost never coincide: this is one of the reasons why it is worth learning to read the INCI of a cosmetic instead of stopping at the front of the package.
Pentapeptide-17 — in ELAXO Cream
Pentapeptide-17 is used in formulas intended to improve the appearance of expression lines: it visibly smoothes expression lines on the forehead and around the eyes and perfects the skin texture. It is the active peptide of PDRN Exosome Cream, designed for the daily routine. In INCI it appears as Palmitoyl Sh-pentapeptide-17 sp lysine amidopropyl diglycolpropylamine.
Peptides, PDRN and exosomes: the synergy
Peptides do not work alone in ELAXO formulas. They are accompanied by PDRN (Sodium DNA), which supports the renewal of the skin's appearance - we wrote about it in what is PDRN and why it works on the skin - and plant-derived exosomes, which help to strengthen the skin's barrier: the complete explanation is in exosomes in skincare. It is this combination that defines a complete anti-ageing action, and the simplest way to have it in the same routine is the Ritual, which brings together serum and cream. Discover all the ELAXO active ingredients →
Frequently asked questions about peptides
Are peptides suitable for sensitive skin?
The biotechnological peptides used by ELAXO are generally well tolerated. As with any cosmetic, it is recommended to read the INCI and carry out a test on a small area of skin.
How long does it take to see results?
The action of the peptides is progressive: the benefits on smoothness and texture are appreciated with consistent use over time. Times depend on skin and regularity, not on a calendar.
Can I use peptides together with retinol or vitamin C?
Peptides are versatile actives and pair well with most routines. Introduce one active ingredient at a time to assess your skin's tolerance: the recommended order is in peptides or retinol and in PDRN together with retinol, vitamin C and acids.
Are hexapeptide-12 and acetyl hexapeptide-8 the same thing?
No. The commercial name "hexapeptide" includes different molecules, distinguished by the chemical group that accompanies them. In the ELAXO Serum the INCI reports Palmitoyl hexapeptide-12: that is the correct reference.
To read later
- Copper peptides (GHK-Cu): what are they
- What is PDRN and why does it work on the skin
- Exosomes in skincare: what they are and how they work
- How to read the INCI of a cosmetic
Do you want the criteria to evaluate a formula without being guided by marketing? Read the free guide.
