amino acid Peptides Oral & topical

Peptides

Short chains of amino acids that act as bioactive signaling molecules, often used to support skin collagen production and other tissue functions.

Sci.Oligopeptides/Polypeptides amino peptide complex cationic defense peptides dipeptides peptide complex providing di-{peptides}, tri-{peptides}, oilgo-{peptides}, and polypeptides whey isolate peptides, hydrolyzed providing di-peptides tri-peptides oilgo-peptides polypeptides whey isolate peptides hydrolyzed
8 forms
Oral & topical

About Peptides

Peptides are short chains of amino acids linked by peptide bonds, typically containing fewer than 50 amino acids. They are distinct from proteins primarily by their smaller size and molecular weight. In nutritional and cosmetic contexts, peptides are often derived from the hydrolysis of larger proteins (e.g., collagen, whey, milk) or synthesized to mimic bioactive sequences. They function as signaling molecules, enzyme inhibitors, or carriers for minerals. Their biological activity is highly sequence-dependent, influencing skin health (e.g., collagen synthesis, antioxidant defense), muscle protein synthesis, and immune modulation.

Official resources

Fact sheets from the NIH Office of Dietary Supplements related to this ingredient group.

Dietary Supplement Label Database

Ingredient group data in NutriNav is aligned with the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database (DSLD).

DSLD group id
9628

At a glance

Approval status

GRAS for specific protein hydrolysates; also used as cosmetic ingredients and dietary supplements.

Compare All Forms

8 forms

Compare supplement forms of Peptides by absorption quality and what your body actually gets from each:

High Moderate Low
Form Absorption Steps to absorb Notes Action
Casein Phosphopeptides

Mineral-binding peptide from milk; supports dental health an...

  • Label category: natural
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Collagen Hydrolysate (Hydrolyzed Collagen Peptides)

Hydrolyzed for enhanced absorption. Supports skin, hair, nai...

  • CAS: 92113-31-0
  • Label category: natural
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Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu)

Supports skin repair, collagen production, and hair growth.

  • CAS: 130120-57-9
  • Label category: synthetic
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Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4 (Matrixyl)

A topically applied peptide for reducing signs of skin aging...

  • CAS: 214047-00-4
  • Label category: synthetic
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Peptides

Broad term for short amino acid chains; function varies by s...

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Peptides (unspecified)

Broad category; specific peptide identity required for preci...

  • DSLD group id: 7741
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Peptides (unspecified)

Broad-spectrum peptide blend; source and sequence not specif...

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Whey Protein Hydrolysate

Fast-absorbing protein; may reduce digestive discomfort; oft...

  • CAS: 92113-31-0
  • Label category: natural
 — — — View →

Also appears on labels as

Additional names seen on supplement labels for forms of this ingredient (beyond the main aliases above).

100% hydrolyzed oligopeptide isolated whey peptide fractions, anterior pituitary peptides, bioactive peptides, Casein Phosphopeptide-Amorphous Calcium Phosphate, Collagen Hydrolysate, Collagen Peptides, Copper-binding tripeptide, Copper Peptide GHK-Cu, Copper Tripeptide, CPP-ACP, CPPs, di-peptides, di{peptides}, Gelatin Hydrolysate, GHK-Cu, Gly-His-Lys:Cu2+, Hydrolyzed Collagen Peptides, hydrolyzed peptides, Hydrolyzed Whey Protein, Matrixyl, Pal-GHK, Palmitoyl Oligopeptide, Partially Hydrolyzed Whey Protein, peptides i & iii, protein hydrolysates, Recaldent, short-chain peptides, Whey Peptides, Whey Protein Hydrolysate

Type: Peptides

Category for Peptides ingredients

Watch out for

Possible interactions or cautions — talk to a healthcare provider if unsure.

  • May potentiate blood pressure-lowering effects when taken with antihypertensive drugs (for ACE-inhibitory peptides).
  • Theoretical interaction with immunosuppressants due to immunomodulatory peptides, but clinical significance is unclear.

Potential Benefits

Benefits associated with Peptides forms:

Antioxidant Support Skin Repair & Anti-Aging Muscle Recovery & Growth Blood Pressure Support Antioxidant Activity Muscle Protein Synthesis Support

And 24 more benefits...

Potential Side Effects

Side effects associated with Peptides forms:

Allergic Reaction How serious: Moderate Gastrointestinal Discomfort How serious: low Hormonal Interactions How serious: low Skin Irritation How serious: Mild Allergic Reactions How serious: Mild Theoretical Hormonal Effects How serious: medium

And 5 more side effects...

What does the research say?

Casein phosphopeptides have been studied primarily for their role in dental health and mineral absorption. Research indicates CPPs can stabilize calcium phosphate in solution, promoting remineralization of tooth enamel and reducing caries risk. Studies also show enhanced intestinal absorption of calcium, iron, and zinc when complexed with CPPs. Evidence is strongest for topical dental applications (CPP-ACP in chewing gums, toothpastes), with oral supplementation evidence more limited but promising for mineral bioavailability.