Navigating through the many functional molecules present in today's cosmetic universe is a difficult task with high chances of failure. There are many trends: vitamins, exotic butters, biodynamic cultures, wild extracts, minerals and a long etcetera, but did you know that amino acids also play an important role in our skin? We have prepared a mini-guide with everything you need to know about these versatile and effective ingredients. You're welcome.
A brief introduction
Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins and peptides, forming a vital part of the human body and biological processes, including the proper functioning of the skin. There are about 100,000 varieties of proteins formed from only 20 amino acids. So, we can say that they are the largest component of our body after water.
Are they all equally good?
They are divided into two basic groups: 'essential' and 'non-essential'. Of the 20 different types that exist, there are 9 that our body cannot synthesize and, therefore, we need to obtain them through diet or other sources. The essential ones are:
Isoleucine: Helps in the healing of wounds, skin and bones.
Leucine: Helps keep skin younger and prevents signs of aging.
Histidine: Is a precursor to histamine and has anti-inflammatory properties.
Methionine: Functions as an antioxidant for hair, skin, and nails.
Lysine: Helps increase natural collagen production, in addition to being a moisturizer.
Tryptophan: Plays an important role in melanin and serotonin synthesis.
Phenylalanine: Being a basic component of melanin formation, it helps improve depigmented skin.
Threonine: Is necessary for collagen formation.
Valine: Is actively absorbed and acts as an energy source for muscles.
On the other hand, non-essential amino acids are those that the body can produce on its own: Aspartic acid, glutamic acid, alanine, arginine, asparagine, cysteine, glutamine, glycine, proline, serine and tyrosine.
What are the benefits of amino acids for the skin?
Both essential and non-essential amino acids play an important role for our body and our skin. Some form proteins that help the skin stay hydrated, others have a calming effect or function as antioxidants. Of all the benefits that amino acids have for the skin, we will focus on the following 3 wonders:
Amino acids for respectful skin cleansing
The use of amino acids as surfactants has received great attention in recent years, although they are not very common due to their high cost. Sodium Cocoyl Alaninate is known as one of the most gentle cleansing agents capable of leaving the skin hydrated. Derived from the amino acid L-Alanine, one of the key amino acids of NMF (Natural Moisturizing Factor), it cleanses the skin without dehydrating it, which makes it optimal even for the most delicate skin. This skin cleansing hero can be found in Antioxidant Burst Shower Gel, our botanical alternative to traditional body shower gels.
Peptides: Unity is strength
Peptides are a series of amino acids linked together. There are hundreds of types, each formed by different combinations of amino acids, and each plays a different role in the skin. Due to their great versatility and effectiveness as active substances, many cosmetics on the market combine several types of peptides in their formula. The innovative blend of peptides provided by Rapid Eye Treatment helps reduce dark circles by activating microcirculation and strengthens capillaries to reduce puffiness. However, the most important action it performs is to protect the collagen and elastin matrix of this delicate area.
Build your collagen from the ground up
Collagen is the key protein par excellence linked to the concept of healthy skin, and thanks to the latest advances in biotechnology, there is now a plant-based collagen fragment identical to human type I capable of strengthening the dermis and epidermis. These potent plant-based amino acids found in Plant Perfection Gel Serum work in synergy with probiotics, micro-algae, and tetrapeptides to reduce expression lines and increase natural collagen production in the skin.
Thanks to their great versatility, amino acids provide benefits without discriminating against anyone. Neither age nor current skin condition matters. Therefore, it is never too late to include them in your routine. The results are surprising.