There are lots of skincare ingredients that offer big results, fast. We get that it can be hard to decipher which ones you need in your routine.

While peptides won’t get you major game-changing results on their own, we’re here to tell you that they’re likely the ingredient you’re missing to guarantee those healthy, glowing, plump and rejuvenated complexion results you’re hoping for.

You really do need peptides in your routine to bolster the rest of product arsenal. Here’s why…

They’re chains of amino acids that are the building blocks of proteins found naturally in your skin.

Think collagen, elastin and keratin, which effect your skin’s texture, tone and elasticity. They’re essentially the foundation of how your skin looks, so boosting these protein levels will not only help to slow down the signs of ageing but can also give an overall regenerating effect.

There are many different types of peptides made from different combinations of amino acids.

Each of these peptides target specific skin concerns – for example, look for copper peptides, which are antibacterial and help with wound healing, if you have oily or spot-prone skin.

Neurotransmitter peptides ‘freeze’ and smooth the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while you should opt for hexapeptides or tetrapeptides to stimulate the production of collagen and elastin too.

But, in general, peptides work for all skin types that are in need of overall hydration, brightening, firming and rejuvenating.

Peptides are best used in combination with other active ingredients to see the most visible results on your skin.

They pair especially well with antioxidants, niacinamide and hyaluronic acid.

Peptides are generally mixed in formulas with other ingredients so if you’re using a peptide-laced serum apply it as you would any serum – post-cleanse and toner and before your moisturiser. If they’re in your favourite cream apply it as you would your regular moisturiser.

Peptides can be found in lotions, essences, serums and creams. Here are our top three peptide picks…

To strengthen and calm: Packed with a Six-Peptide Complex, Green Coffee Bean Oil and other skin-loving ingredients, you need this for supple, plumped-up skin.

To boost collagen and elastin: Chock full of skin-plumping peptides, EGF (that’s epidermal growth factor, the most important growth factor for boosting collagen and elastin), and soothing blue Guaiazulene this youth-booster’s watery formula makes it easy to layer peptides into your day and night routine.

To smooth fine lines: Five types of peptides, brightening Niacinamide and Snail Secretion Filtrate work to rejuvenate, pep up and brighten the delicate under eye area. Added Hyaluronic Acid adds to the line-softening effect of the collagen-boosting Peptide Complex-5.