What are peptides, really?

Another day, another health “trend.” By now, you've probably seen "peptides" on your skincare bottles, in your TikTok feed, and maybe from your doctor — so what actually are they? In short, peptides are short chains of amino acids that help signal molecules within the body. Think of them as the building blocks of protein, which makes them pretty important since proteins are the primary structural component of your muscles, skin, and hair, not to mention their importance to the cells that build, repair and maintain tissues. 

But why have peptides emerged as the hottest new thing in health? Influencers and supplement companies are promoting them as miracle treatments for everything from younger-looking skin to weight loss to hormonal balance. This guide breaks down what peptides are, how they work in the female body specifically, and what the science actually says.

‍

So, what are peptides? The plain-English answer

The best way to explain peptides is to think of protein as a full sentence; peptides are the many phrases strung together to make that sentence. Despite the recent intense interest, peptides aren’t new; in fact, one peptide has been tested and proven effective for almost 100 years: insulin.

Discovered in 1921, and with its first successful treatment for diabetes just a year later, insulin has become the gold standard for the treatment of Type I and II diabetes. Insulin is a naturally occurring hormone that turns food into energy and manages your blood sugar. People with diabetes have impaired or ineffective insulin production, so the synthetic peptide steps in to send the necessary signals to get everything back on track.

That’s essentially the science behind most peptides.

‍

How do peptides work in the body?

Peptides act as messengers; they send signals to your cells to do their jobs, such as repairing tissue, kickstarting your metabolism, and even managing inflammation.

‍

Peptide vs protein

While both peptides and proteins are described as “essential building blocks,” they’re a bit different. Peptides are generally a chain of two or more amino acids. Proteins are larger chains of amino acids; that can mean 100 or more amino acids, or a chain of several smaller peptides joined together.

‍

What are peptides used for? Benefits that actually matter for women

Given their nature as building blocks for many of our body’s physiological functions, it may come as no surprise that peptides have many uses. While some claim to help with youthful skin, others deal with immune function. 

‍

Skin health

Perhaps one of the most widely used peptides is collagen. Popularly known as “hydrolyzed collagen,” collagen peptides are smaller chains of collagen marketed as more digestible due to a process called “hydrolysis” (where water breaks down a compound into smaller components). 

Clinical evidence shows that when taken regularly, hydrolyzed collagen can significantly improve skin health by increasing hydration and elasticity. 

‍

Hormone signaling

Peptide hormones play a significant role in several hormonal functions, including metabolism and reproductive health. One example is Kisspeptin, a crucial neuropeptide that's considered the master reproductive regulator. 

Kisspeptin functions as the starting signal for any reproductive processes by signaling to your brain to release hormones that regulate puberty, control your ovaries, and may even play a role in sexual attraction.

‍

Metabolic health and Insulin sensitivity 

Semaglutide (under the brand names Ozempic and Wegovy) is a popular synthetic peptide. The diabetes and weight-loss drug works by mimicking the naturally occurring hormone glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and sending signals to your brain to help regulate appetite, control blood sugar, and improve insulin sensitivity.

Other peptide hormones that support metabolic health include Apeline, which helps regulate glucose and lipid metabolism, and Adropin, considered a crucial component of cardiovascular and metabolic health.

‍

Inflammation 

A class of peptides, known as Antiinflammatory peptides (AIPs), has shown promise in regulating and inhibiting inflammatory responses through various pathways. There are already several FDA-approved anti-inflammatory peptides on the market, such as lanreotide, a synthetic octapeptide (a chain of 8 amino acids), prescribed to treat gastrointestinal tumors. 

Some research suggests that antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are a possible treatment for chronic skin inflammatory disorders such as psoriasis. 

‍

Immune system

Peptides play a key role in your immune system, with some acting as messengers and others as part of the body’s defense system. One peptide, LL-37 (Human Cathelicidin), an AMP, acts as a defender against bacteria and viruses by modulating immune response and promoting tissue repair and wound healing. Another, BPC-157 (Body Protection Compound), may be a crucial component in promoting the growth of new blood vessels and collagen, as well as supporting your gut barrier. 

‍

Bone density and muscle recovery 

BPC-157 is also a crucial peptide for bone and muscle health, triggering your cells to repair tissue and collagen production. For women over the age of 35, or those approaching perimenopause, when bone health starts to deteriorate, that becomes an important part of health to consider.

‍

What about peptides for PCOS?

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) has such close ties to metabolic processes that it’s no wonder there’s emerging evidence around peptides and PCOS. In addition to GLP1s for weight management and insulin resistance, emerging research suggests that one peptide, c-peptide, may serve as a diagnostic biomarker for the condition. According to research, increased levels of C-Peptide may signal an increased risk of insulin resistance and PCOS.

Some specialists point to other peptides for symptom treatment, including BPC-157 as an anti-inflammatory and regenerative agent. Of course, any exploration into these peptides should be undertaken with caution and under the advisement of a healthcare professional.

‍

Peptide supplements vs. peptide therapy 

Peptide supplements have long been popular wellness products. According to reports, the collagen supplement market doubled in value between 2019 and 2022. However, mixing a supplement with your morning coffee is a much different experience than sitting down with a provider and discussing a personalized peptide therapy protocol.

‍

Over-the-counter peptide supplements

These are peptides you can buy without a prescription from a healthcare professional, usually in the form of powders, capsules, or topical skincare. They work more broadly and gradually, supporting things like skin elasticity, joint health, and exercise recovery over time.

Aside from collagen, creatine is another popular OTC supplement, often used by athletes and fitness enthusiasts.

While generally considered safe and well-tolerated, you should still consult with your provider before starting any new type of medication or supplement.

‍

Peptide therapy

Peptide therapy is a bit more involved. This refers to clinically prescribed peptides — specific compounds selected by a provider based on your labs, symptoms, and health history, and administered in precise doses. When working with a licensed healthcare provider, the goal is usually more targeted therapy, such as supporting hormone signaling, improving metabolic function, or addressing specific deficiencies. 

For the best possible outcome, ensure that you’re working with a board-certified provider and facility that adheres to the latest medical, safety and ethics standards. 

‍

Potential peptide side effects & safety profile

Given how widespread the peptide craze is at the moment, you may wonder: Are peptides safe? Honest answer: peptides aren’t inherently bad for you, but the way they’re being marketed and consumed means we need to take a closer look.

‍

Well-researched peptides have a strong safety track record

Like we mentioned before, there are dozens of FDA-approved peptides on the market– including GLP1s and insulin, to name a few. The key difference is that both of those have tons of verifiable research showing that they are safe and effective. 

Additionally, for most healthy people, collagen and creatine supplements in particular are about as low-risk as supplements get. But as the interest in peptides grow, so does the market, and you should be wary of companies marketing more targeted peptides. 

Think about it this way: Anything potent enough to meaningfully alter your hormones or metabolism requires diligent monitoring by a healthcare professional.

‍

Common peptide side effects

Side effects vary depending on the type of peptide, the dose, and the delivery method. Some include:

• Nausea and vomiting: Some people report digestive issues with certain supplements and powders.
• Allergic reactions: With the rise of injectable peptides, some may experience site injection swelling, redness, hives or other allergic reactions. Yet another reason to work with a healthcare professional.
• Skin Sensitivity: If you’re considering topical peptides, be aware of potential skin issues such as a rash, hives, itchiness and swelling.

Before starting any kind of supplement, even if it is OTC, you should always consult your doctor. Some peptides aren’t compatible with some medicines, and pregnant or nursing women should also avoid many peptides. Lastly, any peptide that promises targeted treatment should only be taken under the care of your healthcare provider.

‍

Peptides are largely unregulated

Despite the fact that some peptides are well-studied and FDA-approved, and others are widely considered safe for OTC use, there are still some safety concerns. The surge in popularity of peptides for wellness, weight loss, and anti-aging has created a large "grey market" of unregulated, unapproved, and often risky injectable products.

The peptide itself isn’t the risk; it’s the lack of oversight and medical knowledge. With these grey market “research chemicals,” you don't always know what you're actually getting, how concentrated it is, or how it will interact with your existing hormone levels, medications, or health conditions.

‍

How to know if peptides are right for you

Peptides aren't bad for you — but some peptides, in the wrong context, without the right oversight, can create problems that were entirely avoidable. So before diving headfirst into the world of peptides, your first step should be a consultation with your healthcare provider.

A thorough evaluation, including recent labwork, your personal and family health history, any known conditions, and metabolic markers is the bare minimum to fully understand if peptides are right for you.

At Allara, we prioritize creating a baseline of your health before prescribing any course of treatment because every woman is different. Without knowing your current state, goals, and history, we cannot provide the best possible treatment plan. That’s how you should approach peptides.

‍

Should you consider peptides for women’s health? 

Peptides are based in science– your body already naturally produces these peptide chains and there are several on the market. However, not all peptides are created the same. For women navigating hormonal conditions such as PCOS, thyroid dysfunction, perimenopause, or irregular cycles, it’s tempting to tap into these new “wonder treatments,” but that’s all the more reason to do your research and consult with a provider.

Because real change happens when you have a full picture of your health. 

At Allara, that's exactly what we do. We specialize in hormone health for women — digging into the labs, the patterns, and the full picture of what's driving your symptoms, then building a care plan that's actually personalized to you.

If you're ready to stop wondering what's going on with your hormones and start getting real answers, take the first step and sign up for Allara today.

‍

Peptides FAQ

‍

What are peptides?

Peptides are small chains of amino acids that are critical in many of the body’s physiological processes, including metabolism, reproduction and skin, bone and hair health.

‍

Are peptides safe?

The short answer is generally yes, peptides are safe. The long answer: Well-researched and clinically proven peptides like collagen and GLP-1 medications have strong safety profiles when used appropriately. But, the growing market of unregulated peptides is a concern. The safest approach is always working with a knowledgeable provider to make a decision, not one based on a social media post.

‍

What is peptide therapy​?

Peptide therapy is any medical treatment that utilizes synthetic peptides to target and regulate a bodily function.

‍

Can peptides help with perimenopause symptoms?

Currently, there aren’t any FDA-approved peptide treatments for perimenopause symptoms, however, the research is promising. One widely-used peptide, collagen, has shown promise in combating the skin issues associated with perimenopause, like dryness and sagging.

‍

Are peptides good for you​?

That’s a question that requires nuance; our bodies naturally create peptides, so they aren’t inherently bad for you, but the danger is in self-diagnosing and taking unnecessary peptides that can have adverse effects. Without knowing your baseline and the care of a healthcare professional, there’s a risk that you could be doing more harm than good.