Are peptides in skincare worth the hype? Biomedical Scientist explains risks and benefits

Whether you’re scrolling on social media, paging through a magazine or listening to a podcast, it’s almost impossible to avoid the global discussion on peptides. Probably the biggest craze of 2026, peptides have taken the fitness, health and beauty industries by storm.

But peptides aren’t a new phenomenon, so where did this sudden interest originate from? It seems that the skyrocketing popularity of GLP-1 medications, along with the rising interest in biohacking, prompted internet culture to drive global interest.

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While social media has helped drive awareness and interest in peptides, it has also assisted in the spread of misinformation and confusion around this popular topic.

Dr Judey Pretorius – Biomedical Scientist and founder of Biomedical Emporium Skincare – has answered some of the most pressing, and common, questions on the subject.

What are peptides?

Peptides are short chains of amino acids (organic compounds that combine to form proteins). They occur naturally in the body and help the body perform many of its vital functions by acting as biological messengers.

This means they instruct cells to perform functions such as regulating hormones, reducing inflammation and repairing tissue. The body produces – and relies on – hundreds of different peptides to function. Some of the most well-known peptides include insulin, oxytocin and collagen.

Where are peptides found?

Peptides are produced naturally by our bodies. They are also found in certain protein-rich foods such as meat, fish, soy and beans.

Peptides are also synthetically manufactured or naturally derived in the laboratory to be injected into the human body or taken as oral supplements. Lastly, they can also be utilised in certain skincare products such as serums.

If our bodies already produce peptides, why would we need to supplement?

While our bodies produce their own supply of peptides, this production naturally decreases as we age. Supplementing with peptides can act as a catalyst to boost or restore certain functions. By using targeted peptides, you can provide the body with additional resources to trigger specific outcomes, such as boosting metabolism or deepening sleep cycles.

In skincare, peptides play a vital role in slowing down the ageing process by signalling skin cells to produce more collagen, relaxing facial muscles and strengthening the skin barrier.

Do all peptide products contain synthetic peptides?

Many therapeutic medications and skincare formulas rely on synthetic (lab-created) peptides, but sometimes natural peptide products are sourced from food or biological sources.

Lab-created peptides are designed to mimic naturally occurring hormones or cellular signals. They are common in medications and skincare products. Bioactive peptides (natural peptides) can be extracted from plant proteins or other food sources and are typically found in dietary supplements and functional foods.

What are some of the benefits one can expect from taking peptides?

Injectable peptides

When peptides are injected into the body, they are used to target and stimulate specific biological processes. Depending on the specific peptide injected, benefits may include accelerated injury repair and wound healing, increased muscle mass, enhanced fat loss, and improved hormonal regulation.

Oral supplement peptides

Oral peptide supplements are a convenient way of supporting cellular function. By acting as targeted messengers, they can improve joint and bone health, stimulate muscle growth and aid recovery, regulate blood sugar and more.

Peptide skincare

Peptide skincare can be very beneficial for slowing the skin’s ageing process. Signal peptides can prompt the skin to produce more collagen and elastin (which helps reduce fine lines, wrinkles and sagging), lock in moisture and repair environmental damage.

Is there anyone who should not be taking peptides, and are there any risks?

When considering taking oral or injectable peptides, it is very important to consult with your healthcare practitioner.

Peptides are generally safe when they are approved medications administered by a medical practitioner. Synthetic peptides prescribed by a doctor have undergone rigorous clinical trials, and under your doctor’s supervision, they can offer many health and wellness benefits.

However, the market is flooded with unregulated black-market peptides. These products lack quality control and may contain dangerous contaminants. Don’t ever source and inject your own peptides without your doctor’s prescription or guidance.

Peptides are not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women. They are generally not recommended in cancer patients, patients with a history of tumours, kidney or liver disease, or minors under the age of 18.

Are peptides really worth the hype?

In health, fitness, wellness, and skincare, peptides can offer ground-breaking benefits. When you invest in quality, science-backed peptide skincare, your skin will experience a difference. The same goes for injectable and oral supplement peptides under the supervision of your doctor: approved peptide products administered specifically for your needs can have major health benefits and improve quality of life.

Just beware of fake or “too good to be true” products available online or sold by anyone who is not a medical professional. When it comes to injectables and supplements, follow your doctor’s advice and avoid black market products at all costs.

When it comes to skincare, do your research or ask a trusted skincare expert about a product before parting with your money. Unfortunately, many cosmetic brands still get away with misleading information on their labelling because this is not as strictly regulated as it should be. If you’re going to purchase peptide skincare, choose a trusted brand that is open to answering your questions and providing evidence for its claims.