Understanding Types of Peptides: Signal, Carrier, and Neurotransmitter Roles in Skincare

Understanding Types of Peptides: Signal, Carrier, and Neurotransmitter Roles in Skincare

Peptides are among the most powerful ingredients in modern skincare, but not all peptides work the same way. Depending on their structure and function, peptides fall into different categories, each offering unique skin benefits. Signal peptides, carrier peptides, and neurotransmitter-inhibiting peptides each interact with the skin on a cellular level to support repair, hydration, or visible wrinkle reduction.

Understanding these differences can help you make informed choices and build a skincare ritual tailored to your skin’s needs. In this guide, we’ll explore the three main types of peptides —signal, carrier, and neurotransmitter-inhibiting—breaking down how each one works and the unique benefits they offer.

Signal Peptides: Stimulating Skin’s Regenerative Processes

Signal peptides (or signalling peptides) act as messengers within the skin. They send biological signals that instruct skin cells to perform key functions, such as:

  • Producing collagen and elastin
  • Accelerating wound healing
  • Supporting overall skin renewal

These peptides mimic the body’s natural repair mechanisms. As we age, our natural peptide signaling diminishes, which contributes to slower regeneration and reduced skin firmness. Signalling peptides help restore these instructions, making them essential in skincare formulas designed for firming, smoothing, and revitalizing skin.


Notable Examples:

  • GHK-Cu: A copper tripeptide that promotes wound healing, reduces inflammation, and stimulates collagen synthesis.
  • Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 and Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7: Often combined (as Matrixyl 3000), these peptides enhance skin elasticity and reduce signs of aging.


Carrier Peptides: Delivering Essential Minerals

Carrier peptides bind and transport trace elements—most notably copper and manganese—to the skin. These minerals are vital for enzymatic processes like collagen cross-linking and tissue repair.

While some peptides in this category overlap with signal peptides (such as GHK-Cu, which carries copper and signals repair), carrier peptides are primarily defined by their ability to deliver bioavailable nutrients that the skin can use for regeneration.

How They Help:

  • Stimulate enzyme function in skin repair
  • Enhance antioxidant activity
  • Strengthen skin structure at a deeper level


Notable Examples:

  • GHK-Cu: Delivers copper ions, which are essential for enzymatic activity in collagen production and skin regeneration.
  • Manganese tripeptide-1: A lesser-known carrier that assists in antioxidant enzyme function and skin recovery from oxidative stress.

Neurotransmitter-Inhibiting Peptides: Softening Expression Lines

Also called neuropeptides, these ingredients work by reducing muscle contractions in the skin, particularly in areas where repeated movement causes wrinkles (such as the forehead or around the eyes). They do this by blocking or modulating the release of neurotransmitters like acetylcholine.

The effect is often compared to a topical, gentler alternative to botulinum toxin, though results are subtler and require consistent use.


Popular Examples:

  • Argireline (Acetyl Hexapeptide-8): One of the most studied neuropeptides, it helps reduce the depth and visibility of expression lines.
  • Snap-8 (Acetyl Octapeptide-3): A more advanced version of Argireline, offering similar wrinkle-reducing effects with improved efficacy.


Why Signal Peptides Stand Out

While carrier and neurotransmitter-inhibiting peptides offer targeted benefits, signal peptides are often considered the backbone of regenerative skincare. They work not by masking a problem, but by addressing its root – cellular aging and reduced repair signaling. Their effects aren’t immediate but build over time, making them essential in routines aimed at resilience and longevity, not just surface-level change.


Signal peptides support:

  • Long-term collagen and elastin production
  • Repair of damage from UV exposure or inflammation
  • Improved skin density, texture, and hydration

How to Incorporate Peptide Types Into Your Ritual

When choosing peptide-based products, look for combinations that include:

  • Signal peptides for foundational support
  • Carrier peptides for enhanced nutrient delivery
  • Neurotransmitter peptides for wrinkle prevention

These ingredients often work synergistically, especially in serums where stability and penetration are optimized. However, always pair peptides with barrier-friendly ingredients—such as ceramides, squalane, and hyaluronic acid—to support the skin’s ability to respond and recover.


Where GLOW Fits In

GLOW’s multi-peptide serum features a research-backed combination of signal, carrier and neurotransmitter-inhibiting peptides, including GHK-Cu, Snap-8 (Acetyl Octapeptide-3), Palmitoyl Peptides, and Argireline (Acetyl Hexapeptide-8). This blend is designed to:

  • Stimulate collagen production
  • Smooth fine lines and expression wrinkles
  • Reinforce hydration and skin barrier health

Paired with barrier-friendly Hyaluronic Acid, GLOW is formulated for all skin types, including sensitive skin. Its precision formulation supports rituals that prioritize both efficacy and skin barrier integrity.

Smart Skincare Starts with Understanding

Knowing the difference between peptide types isn’t just about labels, it’s about understanding how your skincare is working for you. Signal peptides provide long-term structural support, carrier peptides deliver essential minerals, and neurotransmitter peptides soften visible signs of aging. When used together in a thoughtfully formulated serum like GLOW, they become a powerful tool for skin health at every age.

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