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Can peptides really help erase wrinkles? Dermatologists weigh in

Can peptides really help erase wrinkles? Dermatologists weigh in

Yahoo2 days ago
In you've shopped for any kind of skin care products over the past year, you've probably noticed peptides popping up everywhere. As the beauty world's trendiest, anti-aging ingredient du jour, these small chains of amino acids (which are the building blocks of proteins) are now present in everything from lip plumpers to hair-growth tonics. But experts say their most promising use is as part of an effective daily skin care routine, where research suggests they may in fact have a Botox-like effect on wrinkles by softening fine lines, building collagen and brightening and plumping wizened skin as they go.
How do peptides work?
"In skin care, peptides are used to mimic natural processes in the skin and encourage anti-aging effects like collagen production, skin repair and improv[ed] elasticity," says board-certified dermatologist and facial plastic surgeon Dr. Akshay Sanan. "As we age, collagen production declines, leading to wrinkles, sagging, and thinner skin. Signal peptides, like Matrixyl and copper peptides send messages to skin cells, essentially 'telling' them to produce more collagen, elastin and other structural proteins to keep the skin firm and plump." Sanan says peptides also strengthen the skin barrier, protecting against moisture loss and environmental damage. And, yes, "some peptides even have a 'Botox-like' effect by relaxing facial muscles and reducing the depth of wrinkles caused by repetitive movements," Sanan explains.
Should you try peptides?
Dermatologists I spoke with agreed that if you've reached an age when you're starting to spot wrinkles and collagen loss, it's worth adding peptides to your skin care regimen, if only for their plumping, moisturizing effects. In term of acting as a Botox-y wrinkle eraser, research suggests a quality peptide product will soften lines, though the result will be more subtle and less dramatic than that of a neurotoxin. "Collagen peptides do work to boost collagen production in the skin which may, over time, reduce the appearance of wrinkles," says Houston cosmetic surgeon Dr. Rukmini Rednam.
What should I look for in a peptide serum?
There are loads of types of peptides, but for the most bang for your skin care buck, experts recommend seeking out complexes with the most clinical data behind them, which essentially narrows things down to the Matrixyl 3000 blend and copper peptides. Both of which have some research to back up their claims, with benefits that include skin barrier support, wrinkle softening and complexion brightening.
How should I use a peptide serum?
Peptides are one of those skin care ingredients you can add to your routine both in the morning and at night. And, as is the case with any lighter-weight serum, for best absorption, these products should be applied after cleansing your face but before you slather on heavier creams like moisturizers and sunscreens. In terms of more detailed order of operations, you can combine peptides with vitamin C and layer them with retinoids, but most skin care experts say you shouldn't mix them with an exfoliating products.
Our top 5 favorite peptide serums
If you have Amazon Prime, you'll get free shipping, of course. Not yet a member? No problem. You can sign up for your free 30-day trial here. (And by the way, those without Prime still get free shipping on orders of $35 or more.)
The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.
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AESTURA, Korea's #1 Dermatologist-Recommended Dermocosmetic Brand Launches Exclusively at Sephora Australia
AESTURA, Korea's #1 Dermatologist-Recommended Dermocosmetic Brand Launches Exclusively at Sephora Australia

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time28 minutes ago

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AESTURA, Korea's #1 Dermatologist-Recommended Dermocosmetic Brand Launches Exclusively at Sephora Australia

Premium dermocosmetic brand specialising in sensitive skin launches from August 26th, bringing clinically-proven innovation to Australian skincare market SYDNEY, July 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- AESTURA, Korea's #1 dermatologist-recommended dermocosmetic brand for sensitive skin[1], breaks new ground in the Australian skincare market with its exclusive launch at Sephora Australia stores and on beginning August 26th, 2025. This strategic partnership with Sephora Australia answers the growing demand for advanced, science-backed solutions in the dermatologist skincare category. AESTURA is more than just a skincare brand. It is the culmination of over 40 years of scientific research and dermatological expertise. AESTURA's specialised sensitive skin solutions are trusted by dermatologists at Korea's leading medical institutions. The brand has been ranked as the No. 1 cosmetic brand sold in skin clinics for 9 consecutive years[2], and has widespread distribution, reaching 100% of tertiary general hospitals in South Korea[3]. "We are thrilled to introduce AESTURA to our Australian beauty community," says Sheila Dam, Brand General Manager at AESTURA. "Our products and formulas have been trusted by Korean dermatologists and sensitive-skin users alike for decades, and now, with this launch at Sephora Australia, we are excited to share these innovative sensitive-skin solutions to a wider audience." AESTURA's innovative skincare harnesses patented Triple-Lipid Technology™, featuring one million ceramide capsules in every bottle engineered to mimic the skin's natural structure and target the fundamental pillars of skin health: hydration, protection, and restoration. The ATOBARRIER365 Collection: Hero Products for Sensitive Skin At the heart of AESTURA's breakthrough skincare is the ATOBARRIER365 Collection, featuring the viral sensation ATOBARRIER365 Cream. The hero product has become a phenomenon in Korea, with one cream sold every 7 seconds[6] due to its proven ability to strengthen, protect and hydrate the skin. The ATOBARRIER365 Cream features patented technology with one million capsules packed with ceramides in every bottle[4]. These capsules stay on the skin for up to 18 hours[5], delivering hydration while strengthening, repairing, and protecting the moisture barrier which can be weakened in sensitive skin. "Sensitive skin often struggles with compromised skin barrier, making it more susceptible to dryness and irritation," says Dr. Richard D. Granstein, an academic dermatologist and Chair of AESTURA's Derma-Science Advisory Board. Additionally, according to Dr. Y. Claire Chang, board-certified dermatologist at UnionDerm and clinical instructor at Mount Sinai Hospital, "For those with sensitive skin, ceramides are crucial. It's not just about any ceramides, though. Sensitive skin benefits most from specific ceramides that mimic those naturally found in the skin. AESTURA's innovative capsule technology, used in the ATOBARRIER365 Cream, encapsulates these barrier-boosting ceramides, allowing for deeper penetration to help rebuild and strengthen the skin's natural barrier. Results reported from a clinical trial of the ATOBARRIER365 Cream demonstrated significantly enhanced skin hydration and improved barrier function." The complete ATOBARRIER365 Collection includes products formulated to address specific skin concerns like dryness, irritation, and barrier damage while enhancing overall skin health. Each product is designed for daily use, providing a complete routine specifically developed for sensitive skin needs. Exclusive Launch at Sephora Australia The exclusive partnership with Sephora Australia underscores both brands' commitment to offering premium, results-driven skincare solutions. Sephora's reputation for curating the world's most coveted beauty brands makes it the ideal retail partner for AESTURA's Australian debut. "Sephora Australia is excited to exclusively launch AESTURA, bringing our clients access to Korea's most trusted dermocosmetic brand," says Mark O'Keefe, Country Manager Sephora ANZ. "Our clients value effective, results-driven skincare, and AESTURA delivers on this by offering cutting-edge solutions specifically designed for sensitive skin that support barrier health. We look forward to introducing AESTURA to our Sephora community and know that it will be a valuable addition to our assortment." Market Impact and Availability The Australian launch comes at a time when consumer interest in K-beauty and dermocosmetic products continues to grow, with Australian consumers increasingly seeking scientifically-backed skincare solutions and prioritising genuine skin health over trend-driven routines. Australia's harsh environmental factors - from intense UV exposure to dramatic seasonal transitions - demand skincare solutions of exceptional calibre. AESTURA's arrival fills a crucial gap in the market for dermatologist-recommended brand that combine Korean innovation with clinical credibility. Starting August 26th, AESTURA products will be available at all Sephora Australia and New Zealand stores nationwide and through Sephora's online platform, ensuring accessibility for customers across the country. [1]Based on research conducted by Kantar with dermatologists in South Korea, 2023. [2]Korea Consumer Agency, 2016-2024, Best Brand Award of the Year in the category of cosmetic brands sold in skin clinics. [3]Distribution Partners Based on Health Insurance Review & Assessment Service (HIRA) Statistical Figures [4]80mL/2.7 fl. oz. [5]Ex-vivo test on human skin [6]3M Units Sales: 2018.09 ~ 2024.01 cumulative unit sales1 sold every 7 seconds : 2024.01 unit sales About AESTURA AESTURA is Korea's #1 dermatologist-recommended dermocosmetic brand, dedicated to developing scientifically-proven skincare solutions that bridge the gap between cosmetics and dermatological care. Founded on the principle of combining advanced research with gentle effectiveness, AESTURA has earned the trust of Korean dermatologists and consumers alike. The brand's commitment to clinical excellence and innovation has made it a leader in the Korean beauty industry and a sought-after name in global skincare markets. For more information about AESTURA, visit View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE AESTURA Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data

Eating More of This Vegetable Might Be the Easiest Way To Lower Hypertension
Eating More of This Vegetable Might Be the Easiest Way To Lower Hypertension

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Eating More of This Vegetable Might Be the Easiest Way To Lower Hypertension

Eating More of This Vegetable Might Be the Easiest Way To Lower Hypertension originally appeared on Parade. When you think of cardiovascular health issues, your mind may drift to hospitals, life-saving visits to the emergency room and medications. Hospitals and medications can save lives and help people manage their heart health. However, other habits can also play a significant role in supporting your overall health, including lowering blood want people to understand that small, healthy choices add up. A recent American Heart Association report found that cardiovascular disease remains the top killer of U.S. adults. However, the organization highlighted the increase in people living with hypertension as a reason for this dubious distinction. Diet is one risk factor for high blood pressure—and heart disease in general—that people have control over. "Maintaining a healthy diet can go a long way towards helping to control your blood pressure," says Dr. Cheng-Han Chen, MD, a board-certified interventional cardiologist and medical director of the Structural Heart Program at MemorialCare Saddleback Medical does a blood pressure-friendly diet look like? Cardiologists and dietitians agree that it often includes one vegetable that can help people lower hypertension. They share the vegetable, ways to enjoy it and alternatives. 🩺 💊 Eating More of This Vegetable Can Help You Lower Blood Pressure, Cardiologists and RDs Agree Want to lower hypertension ASAP? Fill your cart with spinach during your next trip to the grocery store. "Spinach can help to lower blood pressure through a few different mechanisms," Dr. Chen says. "The relatively high nitrate content in spinach can increase nitric oxide levels in the body, relaxing your blood vessels."Also? Move over, bananas. Spinach is also a rich source of potassium, which matters for heart health. "Potassium is a mineral that helps balance sodium levels in the body by helping relax blood vessel walls," explains , a registered dietitian with Top Nutrition Coaching. "This can help ease pressure on the cardiovascular system."A 2023 Nutrients study suggested that eating leafy green vegetables, including spinach, may help people lower their blood pressure. Importantly, spinach isn't the only leafy green vegetable in the produce aisle, nor is it such a superfood that eating it will guarantee that your blood pressure lowers and stays in a healthy range. One cardiology dietitian stresses that no food belongs on that kind of lofty pedestal. "No single food can improve blood pressure on its own," reports Michelle Routhenstein, MS, RD, CDCES, CDN, a cardiology dietitian and owner of "Instead, considering your overall dietary pattern, and the foods and pairings you include, is essential for supporting blood pressure and heart health."However, Routhenstein agrees with Dr. Chen and Garcia-Benson—the nitrate and potassium content in spinach provides a double whammy that makes it an excellent choice for people aiming to keep their blood pressure in How Much Spinach Do You Need To Eat To Lower Blood Pressure? There isn't a specific dosage of spinach to eat if you want to lower blood pressure, explains Dr. Nishant Kalra, MD, an interventional cardiologist and regional chief medical officer at VitalSolution, an Ingenovis Health company. However, Dr. Kalra points to data suggesting that consuming about 350 to 400 milligrams of nitrate can benefit the heart."This aligns with the DASH diet, which recommends at least four servings of vegetables per day," Dr. Kalra explains. If adding milligrams of nitrates sounds too stressful, Routhenstein has a way to simplify your spinach intake. "Consuming about one to two cups of raw spinach or a half or full cup of cooked spinach four to five times a week can help you reap these benefits," she loves working spinach into soups, sandwiches and salads with tomatoes. Garcia-Benson enjoys spinach: Tossed into burrito bowls Sautéed with eggs, mushrooms and other veggies in the morning Blended into smoothies ("You won't taste it!" she reveals.) Related: Alternatives to Spinach That Can Lower Blood Pressure If hiding spinach in your smoothie doesn't sound appetizing, rest assured, there are other ways to get your fix of heart-healthy veggies. In the leafy-green family, Garcia-Benson reports that: Kale is nutrient-dense and easy to use, cooked or raw Swiss chard is packed with potassium and magnesium Arugula is mild and nitrate-rich like spinach "It's not just about spinach—getting vegetables in daily, ideally with most meals, is supportive of healthy blood pressure levels," Garcia-Benson says. "If you want to use spinach every day, go for it. However, rotating your greens week to week can help reduce food waste and keep things interesting."Speaking of which, variety is more than the spice of life. Eating an array of colorful foods (AKA the rainbow) is also vital to ensuring that you're getting the vitamins and minerals your heart needs to thrive. She also recommends: Beets, which are also high in nitrates, can help relax blood vessels and boost circulation Sweet potatoes are rich in potassium, fiber and magnesium, balancing fluids and sodium Avocados, which are packed with potassium, magnesium and heart-health fats that assist with blood pressure regulation Strawberries and blueberries that are loaded with antioxidants, reducing inflammation and supporting blood pressure function Bananas—OK, maybe don't move over just yet. "These are one of the most potassium-rich fruits, supporting sodium regulation and healthy hearts," Garcia-Benson says. Garcia-Benson isn't a fan of "eat this, not that" advice, even when it comes to blood pressure. "Rather than focusing on restriction, I encourage people to prioritize adding nutrient-dense foods to their plate," she says. "That naturally pushes out some of the higher-sodium, added-sugar, or high-saturated-fat foods without being overly rigid. Still, she concedes it's important to be mindful of a few components when choosing meals, including limiting: Highly processed foods Fried foods Sugary drinks and sweets Cured meats and snack foods that can add sneaky high amounts of salt Related: Other Tips To Support Blood Pressure Diet is a critical way to lower blood pressure and prevent hypertension. However, cardiologists recommend taking a holistic approach. Dr. Chen suggests: Engaging in regular physical activity Maintaining a healthy weight Avoiding alcohol and tobacco Getting enough quality sleep Managing stress That advice might sound simple, but managing blood pressure can feel complicated. Remember, support is available. "If you're concerned about high blood a primary care provider or cardiologist for evaluation and management," shares Dr. Kalra. A registered dietitian can also help you craft a heart-healthy diet—including dishing out delicious ways to enjoy spinach and other vegetables. Up Next:Sources: Heart and Stroke Statistics. American Heart Association. Dr. Cheng-Han Chen, MD, a board-certified interventional cardiologist and medical director of the Structural Heart Program at MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center Kathleen Garcia-Benson, RDN, a registered dietitian with Top Nutrition Coaching Vitamins and Minerals for Blood Pressure Reduction in the General, Normotensive Population: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Six Supplements. Nutrients. Michelle Routhenstein, MS, RD, CDCES, CDN, a cardiology dietitian and owner of Dr. Nishant Kalra, MD, an interventional cardiologist and regional chief medical officer at VitalSolution, an Ingenovis Health company Increasing Nitrate-Rich Vegetable Intake Lowers Ambulatory Blood Pressure in (pre)Hypertensive Middle-Aged and Older Adults: A 12-Wk Randomized Controlled Trial. The Journal of Nutrition. Eating More of This Vegetable Might Be the Easiest Way To Lower Hypertension first appeared on Parade on Jul 26, 2025 This story was originally reported by Parade on Jul 26, 2025, where it first appeared.

Child Psychologists Say These 9 Phrases Are Doing More Harm Than Good—Even if You Mean Well
Child Psychologists Say These 9 Phrases Are Doing More Harm Than Good—Even if You Mean Well

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Child Psychologists Say These 9 Phrases Are Doing More Harm Than Good—Even if You Mean Well

Child Psychologists Say These 9 Phrases Are Doing More Harm Than Good—Even if You Mean Well originally appeared on Parade. It's natural as a parent to want to build your child's confidence and help them grow. But sometimes, your well-meaning words and actions might actually be hindering their growth instead of helping it. Some common phrases are surprisingly seen as red flags by child psychologists, and if you're using them, it might be time for a pivot. According to them, there are out there doing a lot —even if you mean well. "Sometimes, the words we use or how quickly we jump in to help can actually get in the way of their growth," says , a licensed psychologist at the Child Mind Institute. "The good news is that a few simple shifts in how we talk and respond can make a big difference in helping kids build confidence, problem-solving skills and emotional resilience."The language you use always plays a big role in your child's development, but actions are equally important to consider. "Parents and caregivers should try to avoid language and actions that may unintentionally discourage their child from trying new things, working hard or taking their time to figure out how to do something [themselves]," she adds. Moments of struggle and learning to do things on your own are key for a developing child. She explains that it helps develop motor skills and helps a child build self-efficacy and a belief in their own capabilities (more on that later).Dr. Keough and, a principal research scientist and licensed developmental psychologist, tell Parade the kinds of phrases and behaviors that can inadvertently harm your child's 9 Phrases That Do More Harm Than Good, According to Child Psychologists 1. "Don't worry about that, it's not a big deal." Although you might mean well with this statement, it actually comes off as emotionally invalidating. "Dismissing a child's feelings and moving on shuts down an important opportunity to support them and help reduce their fear of failure," Dr. Young explains. "It also may create the idea in the child's mind that they don't have the right to feel the way that they do. 2. "What could you do differently next time?" You can unknowingly put pressure on your child and set unrealistic expectations by saying this. According to Dr. Young, this seems constructive, but if it's not followed by a collaborative plan, it can increase anxiety about making mistakes."Instead, validate their feelings first," she says. "Then ask, 'What could you do differently?' and follow up with something like (as an example), 'That's a good idea—you could practice kicking the ball more. How about we practice together in the backyard after dinner?'"She explains that this provides both an action plan and collaborative support, helping children feel less alone and more confident moving 3. "You're so smart!" Both Dr. Young and Dr. Keough agree that this phrase can do more harm than good. On the surface, it sounds positive. But they both say it can unintentionally reinforce a fixed mindset—the belief that intelligence is innate and unchangeable."Studies show that children who have been praised more for their intelligence tend to avoid things that make them feel 'not smart,' like challenging or new tasks, and they give up more quickly when they don't succeed," Dr. Keough explains. "Instead of telling a child how smart, gifted or talented they are, adults can support a child's development by using effort-based praise."Instead, she recommends trying phrases like, "Great job working so hard to put that puzzle together!" or "I love seeing you put in the hard work to memorize your spelling words. You earned that grade!" This helps children develop a growth mindset, which reiterates that effort matters and abilities can grow over time. Dr. Young adds that this also encourages persistence. 4. "You don't have to try if you're scared or nervous." It's natural to want to protect your kids, but there's a difference between protecting and sheltering. Some kids might be hesitant to try new things that are safe and fun, like a sports team or a hobby, and it can hurt their growth if you encourage them to stay too far in their comfort zone."Telling a child they don't need to try something if they feel scared makes everyone feel better in the moment, but this can create a pattern of avoidance that makes children more anxious in the long run," shares Dr. Keough. "It also sends an unintentional message to your child: 'I agree that you can't handle this.'"Instead, she recommends giving kids the chance to practice moving through difficult situations. Parents can support healthy development by helping their children face their fears and build up their "bravery muscles." "Ideally in small, gradual steps with lots of encouragement," she adds. 5. "Don't be worried/sad/angry. This isn't a big deal." According to Dr. Keough, when children are at a young, impressionable age, they don't have a lot of control over their emotions yet. It's easy to dismiss emotions if they seem over the top to you, but this can actually do more harm in the long run."Telling a child how they should (or shouldn't) feel can hurt a child's emotional development if it happens a lot," she explains. "It can also backfire and lead to further emotional disregulation."Instead, parents can communicate that they understand and accept what their child is feeling by using phrases like, "I get it. You're feeling disappointed that you can't have a playdate today." This supports healthy emotional development and helps a child feel 6. "Let me do that for you. I can do it more quickly and easily." While it's sometimes faster to do things for your child instead of letting them do things themselves, you'll want to be careful of how often you do this."We want to be careful not to swoop in every time or send the message that doing things well means doing them fast or without difficulty," Dr. Keough shares. "Whenever you can, let your child try things on their own, even if it takes longer or gets messy."Whether they're pouring their own water or zipping up a jacket, she says these "I did it myself" moments are powerful. They help build motor skills, confidence and perseverance. "And don't forget to praise the effort they put in, not just the outcome," she adds. 7. "Your brother/sister always..." While this might seem like a statement that motivates a child to behave better, Dr. Keough says that comparing your children can harm a child's social and emotional development."Rather than motivating your child, [it] can lead to jealousy, competitiveness and shame," she says. "Over time, this can negatively impact a child's self-esteem and create sibling rivalry."As an alternative, she suggests focusing on your child's individual goals. Using things like chore charts or visual reminders to help them stay on track and celebrate their wins. This way, no comparisons are 8. "Practice makes perfect." Attaching the word "perfect" to anything a child does isn't necessarily supportive of their growth. Dr. Young says that perfection isn't realistic and can create an impossible standard for your child to meet."Try: 'Practice makes progress,'" she says. "This reframes effort as a path to improvement, not an impossible ideal." 9. [Saying nothing.] Dr. Young states that what you don't say can also have a negative impact on a child's development."For example, during a conversation, your child might say they were upset at school," she explains. "If you don't acknowledge their emotions—or change the subject to avoid upsetting them further—it can have the opposite effect of what you intended."She also shares that research suggests that when parents ask things like, "How were you feeling when that happened?' and validate the response with "It's okay to feel upset" (without judgment), it shows the child it's normal to express emotions. "It also communicates that their problems matter—because they matter to them," she further Next:Sources: Dr. Jessica Young, PhD, is a principal research scientist and licensed developmental psychologist. Dr. Kathryn Keough, PhD, is a licensed psychologist at the Child Mind Institute Child Psychologists Say These 9 Phrases Are Doing More Harm Than Good—Even if You Mean Well first appeared on Parade on Jul 27, 2025 This story was originally reported by Parade on Jul 27, 2025, where it first appeared. Solve the daily Crossword

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