Native human alpha-MSH is the 13-residue parent, Ac-Ser-Tyr-Ser-Met-Glu-His-Phe-Arg-Trp-Gly-Lys-Pro-Val-NH, with a methionine at position 4 that is the most oxidation-prone group in the molecule and an all-L backbone that peptidases cleave readily
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Irritation and sensitivity Retinol alone can cause: Redness Peeling Dryness Burning sensation Increased sensitivity Adding peptides usually helps: Most peptides are soothing Support skin barrier repair Reduce inflammation When irritation occurs despite peptides: Reduce retinol frequency (every other night instead of nightly) Use lower retinol concentration (0.25% or 0.5% instead of 1%) Apply peptides in morning, retinol at night (not together) Add more moisturizer Take retinol break for few days pH incompatibility concerns The pH issue: Retinol works best at pH 5.5-6 Some peptides work best at different pH ranges Mixing products with very different pH can reduce effectiveness In practice: Modern formulations account for this Short contact time between layers minimizes pH issues Many successful products combine peptides + retinol in same formulation Solution: Don't worry excessively about pH
Next Steps: Human clinical trials are critical to determine if these rodent results translate to people
The winning molecule, called liraglutide, entered clinical testing in 2000 as an injectable drug to treat diabetes, and would eventually be approved by the FDA, as Victoza in 2010
If you notice any of these symptoms, it could be an indication of a more serious underlying condition that needs medical attention
