How Peptides and LED can Deliver Botox-Like Results
My New At-Home 'Glass Skin' Hack: Supercharge Your LED Mask Results
As many of you know, I recently had some time away from the clinic, ever the super geek it gave me the chance to look into new skin hacks and find new ways to get you the absolute best results possible, both in the clinic and at home.
LED Light Therapy is, and always has been, a cornerstone of my practice. Its power to regenerate cells, calm inflammation, and boost collagen is simply unmatched. But I wanted to know if we could amplify those incredible benefits, especially for those of you using LED masks at home.
After a lot of research, testing, and comparing results, I’m so excited to share that one combination stood out head and shoulders above the rest: Red Light Therapy paired with a high quality Peptide Serum.
The Magic Combo: Why It Works So Well
Think of it like this: the red light acts as an energy source for your skin cells, waking them up and making them more receptive. When you apply a peptide serum first, the light energy essentially opens the door for those powerful ingredients, helping them to penetrate deeper and get straight to work. The synergy is exceptional, leading to more profound and visible results in skin rejuvenation.
Okay, But What Exactly Are Peptides?
Let's keep it simple. Peptides are short chains of amino acids, which are the fundamental building blocks of proteins in our skin – namely, collagen and elastin.
Think of them as little messengers. When you apply them to your skin, they send signals to your cells, telling them, "Hey, it's time to build more collagen" This vital communication helps to restore firmness, smooth fine lines, and give your skin back its youthful bounce.
Which peptide do I choose?
The key is finding a high quality, potent formula that your skin loves. I have been personally using and loving Medik8's Liquid Peptides for its elegant, multi-peptide formula. It is on the pricier side, but perfect to smooth fine lines while also hydrating.
The Inkey List Collagen Peptide Serum is a great option if you are starting your skincare journey, it’s also affordable, and perfect for dull and dry skin.
Nip + Fab Peptide Fix Finishing Oil 2% affordable and a joy to use.
Clinical Skin Polypeptide Firming Serum 50ml Potent but gentle, daily use effectively delivers bouncy, healthy, hydrated skin.
If you are acne or prone to break outs: Choose a Lightweight Serum or Gel. Acne-prone skin benefits most from lightweight, water-based formulas. Avoid heavy, rich creams that could clog pores.
Look for Non-Comedogenic Formulas: Ensure the product is specifically labelled as "non-comedogenic," meaning it's formulated not to block your pores.
Check for Complementary Ingredients: Many peptide serums designed for breakout-prone skin will also include other beneficial ingredients like niacinamide (to control oil and reduce redness) or hyaluronic acid (for oil-free hydration).
The New 'Glass Skin' glow Protocol
I've been using this protocol myself, and the results are instantly gratifying. Your skin has a translucent, 'glass-like' quality that is radiant and glowing.
Here’s how to do it:
The Perfect Canvas: Start with your usual, thorough double cleanse. You want your skin to be completely clean and free of any impurities.
Apply your peptide of choice: Apply a generous layer of your favourite peptide serum over your face and neck.
Get Your Glow On: Pop on your LED mask (on the red light setting) for a 10-minute session.
Once the 10 minutes are up, you can follow with the rest of your skincare routine. The immediate brightness is incredible.
I have been doing this in the AM as the glow is perfect and lasts all day.
If you’re ready to supercharge your at home routine, we can help you choose a peptide suitable for you skins needs, and stock a range of clinically proven LED masks in the clinic.
Give this skin hack a try, and get ready for the compliments. Your skin will thank you for it.
Some facts about ingredients
The peptides that contain acetyl hexapeptide-8 (also known as argireline) mimic the effect of Botox by inhibiting neurotransmitter release to help soften expression lines.
Copper peptides are used to boost collagen and elastin, accelerate wound healing, and reduce inflammation.
Matrixyl (palmitoyl pentapeptide-4) shows the strongest clinical evidence for stimulating collagen and reducing the appearance of wrinkles.
While peptides are not a primary "acne treatment" like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, they are a fantastic supporting ingredient. They work holistically to calm, repair, and strengthen the skin, making them an excellent and safe addition to almost any acne management routine.
