Peptides AcademyPeptide Mechanisms & Supplies
Reference pages for reconstitution supplies, receptor pathways, and the biological mechanisms peptides act through.
Bacteriostatic Water (BAC)
Sterile water for injection containing 0.9% benzyl alcohol as a bacteriostatic preservative. Used as the standard reconstitution solvent for lyophilized peptides because it enables multi-dose vial use over 28 days.
Benzyl Alcohol
The antimicrobial preservative in bacteriostatic water (0.9% concentration) that enables multi-dose vial use for reconstituted peptides. Benzyl alcohol prevents bacterial growth during the typical 28-day use window of a reconstituted peptide vial.
Centella Asiatica (Cica)
Centella asiatica is a medicinal plant whose triterpene compounds — madecassoside, asiaticoside, madecassic acid, and asiatic acid — promote collagen synthesis, reduce inflammation, and accelerate wound healing. It has become a cornerstone ingredient in K-beauty and sensitive-skin formulations.
Ceramides
Lipid molecules that comprise ~50% of the skin's barrier structure. Ceramides are the mortar between the brick-like corneocytes of the stratum corneum — without them, the skin barrier is compromised, leading to transepidermal water loss, sensitivity, and accelerated aging. Essential co-ingredient with peptide skincare.
Glycerin (Glycerol)
A simple three-carbon polyol that is one of the most effective and well-studied humectants in skincare. Glycerin draws water from the dermis and atmosphere into the stratum corneum, maintaining hydration essential for peptide penetration and skin barrier function.
Hyaluronic Acid (HA)
A naturally occurring glycosaminoglycan that holds up to 1,000× its weight in water. In skincare, hyaluronic acid serves as both a hydration reservoir and a delivery vehicle for peptides — many peptide serums use HA as their base for enhanced penetration and moisture retention.
Insulin Syringe (U-100)
The standard syringe used for subcutaneous peptide administration. A U-100 insulin syringe has markings in 'units' where 100 units equal 1 mL, enabling precise dosing of small peptide volumes.
Mannitol
A sugar alcohol used as a lyoprotectant and bulking agent in lyophilized peptide formulations. Mannitol forms an elegant crystalline cake during freeze-drying, improving reconstitution speed and vial-to-vial dose consistency.
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)
A water-soluble vitamin that strengthens the skin barrier, reduces inflammation, regulates sebum production, and fades hyperpigmentation. One of the most versatile and well-tolerated actives in skincare — and a frequent companion to peptide formulations.
Panthenol (Provitamin B5)
Panthenol is the alcohol form of pantothenic acid (vitamin B5) that penetrates the skin and converts to pantothenic acid, where it supports barrier repair, wound healing, and stratum corneum hydration. It is one of the most versatile supporting ingredients in peptide skincare formulations.
Retinol (Vitamin A)
The gold-standard topical anti-aging active. Retinol converts to retinoic acid in the skin, driving cell turnover, stimulating collagen synthesis, and reducing hyperpigmentation. It is the most evidence-backed anti-aging ingredient — and the one peptides are most frequently compared against.
Squalane
A lightweight, stable emollient derived from hydrogenated squalene — a lipid naturally produced by human sebaceous glands. Squalane mimics the skin's natural lipid composition, providing non-greasy moisture and enhancing the penetration of other actives including peptides.
Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)
A potent antioxidant and essential cofactor for collagen synthesis. In skincare, L-ascorbic acid at pH <3.5 is the most effective form, providing photoprotection, brightening, and collagen support. Critical interaction: incompatible with copper peptides (GHK-Cu).