Challenges and Opportunities of Biologically Active Peptides in the Design and Formulation of Cosmeceuticals

In recent years, the use of cosmetics and personal care products has increased worldwide, due to their corrective, decorative and hygienic functions. The development of new cosmetic formulations based on the use of bioactive compounds has expanded rapidly due to consumer demand for products with protective and therapeutic functions derived from natural sources. Skin aging is a complex biological process influenced by a combination of endogenous or intrinsic and exogenous or extrinsic factors. Since skin health and beauty are considered to be one of the main factors representing overall “well-being” and the perception of “health” in humans, several antiaging strategies have been developed in recent years. There are two main groups of agents that can be used as antiaging components, antioxidants and cellular regulators. Antioxidants, such as vitamins, polyphenols and flavonoids, reduce collagen degradation by reducing the concentration of free radicals in tissues. Cell regulators, such as retinols, peptides and growth factors, have direct effects on collagen metabolism and influence collagen synthesis.