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Along with retinoids, peptides are ingredients I look for in my skincare, which is why I was curious to follow up on a secret briefing from No7 a couple of months ago (the peptide-containing item just went on sale this week – we’ll talk about it in a moment).
But first, what are peptides you may ask? Naturally present in our skin, peptides are small strings of amino acids with a variety of functions. One of their jobs is to act as an alarm when damage occurs, signaling a release of collagen and other proteins to trigger repair. As an ingredient in topically applied skincare, peptides work to “trick” the skin into stimulating that repair process, which in the beauty world translates into plumper, fresher-looking, less lined skin.
Back to No7 and the secret briefing: here, Mike Bell, their Head of Science Research revealed that after 15 years of research together with the University of Manchester and 37 trials, No7 has developed a unique and never before seen peptide complex (this is significant since most beauty companies source their peptides off the shelf from ingredient manufacturers).
After No7’s research delved into two of the most powerful peptides found naturally in the skin, the brand began creating lab-made replicas, which have been shown to renew over 50 key proteins. These are the stars of the show in No7’s new range of four Future Renew Damage Reversal products.
If you are only buying one item from the collection I would suggest the serum (No7 Future Renew Damage Reversal Serum, from £42.95) as it has the highest concentration of the peptide blend along with niacinamide, hyaluronic acid and vitamin C. It reverses the signs of damage ‘aging in four weeks (thinking lines, uneven texture, lack of firmness) and I agree – I’ve been using it for just over a month. Peptides, by the way, work very well with other skincare ingredients and, as dermatologist Dr Emma Wedgeworth explains, “They’re incredibly well-tolerated, which means they’re suitable for even the most sensitive skin.”
In addition to the serum, there’s a silky, deeply hydrating day cream; No7 Future Renew Damage Reversal SPF 40 Day Cream, £34.95. I prefer my moisturizers and SPFs to be two separate products so I can mix and match formulations and textures, but Mike Bell told me built-in sunscreen is what customers are asking for for convenience. It might be you.
For PM use there’s the night cream (Future Renew Damage Reversal Night Cream, £34.95). With the new blend of peptides and other skin nourishing ingredients including shea butter, this is a delicious pampering cream to add to your evening skincare ritual. In testing No7, panel members said their skin was more supple and the texture more even after a week of nightly use. And for the eyes, Future Renew Damage Reversal Eye Serum, £24.95 is an all-rounder, tackling lines, uneven skin tone and puffiness. Expect results in 8 weeks.
Solid science. Products that do what they say on the tin. Affordable prices. Add to Cart!
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