Teenagers on Peptides: Trend or Trouble? - Scholar & Athlete

Peptides, which were once found mostly in medical research or elite sports circles are now showing up in TikTok videos and gym bag conversations among teens.

Promoted online as boosters for muscle growth, fat loss, skincare and athletic recovery, these small chains of amino acids are sparking curiosity and concern alike.  

Peptides are naturally occurring molecules in the body that help regulate processes like tissue repair and hormone signaling. 

Photo by Scientific American

In adults, some peptide-based products especially topical ones in skincare have evidence supporting modest benefits, such as increased collagen production and improved skin appearance. But when it comes to teen use for performance or aesthetic goals, experts warn there is not enough solid research yet to declare them safe or effective. 

“While peptides may benefit skin health and recovery, their use, especially those affecting hormones should be cautious due to limited research and potential health risks,” said Dr. Elisa Moreno, a sports medicine specialist. 

Many peptides marketed online are unregulated, sold as “research chemicals,” and have not undergone rigorous testing for safety or efficacy especially in adolescents still growing and developing. 

Social media plays a crucial role in popularizing the trend. Teens on platforms like TikTok share peptide routines claiming faster fat loss or bigger muscle gains, but these anecdotes are not backed by scientific studies. 

Some peptides advertised for weight control or increased growth hormone may disrupt natural hormone balance a significant concern during puberty.

Photo by Healthline

Peptides are also trending in skincare products. Topical peptides like copper-based formulas may potentially help with skin elasticity and acne scarring. 

“Peptides in serums can stimulate collagen, but most teens can get similar results from sunscreen, gentle cleansing, and dermatologist-recommended treatments,” noted dermatologist Sara Kim, adding that longterm effects of many products still aren’t well studied. 

Experts emphasized caution. Many of the performance oriented peptides are not FDAapproved and may carry unknown risks, especially when taken systemically or by injection. Some compounds are even banned in competitive sports.  

About the Contributor

Lukas Buendia is a current 16-year-old junior attending Tracy High School. He was born on Aug. 4, 2009, in Pleasanton, Calif. Buendia is the youngest of 3 children, he has one brother who’s the oldest and one sister who’s the middle child. His passions and hobbies include mixed martial arts, with a large emphasis in Muay Thai, Thai Kickboxing, including elbows, shin kicks, knee punches, clinching and sweeps. MMA, however, isn’t his only passion, Buendia has always enjoyed lifting weights and has considered it to be one of the bigger and most important hobbies in his life. He additionally loves reading, traveling and music. Before he moved to Tracy in late 2019, he lived in Dublin and San Ramon for the first 10 years of his life. Buendia is excited to experience his Junior and Senior years at Tracy High, even though he is new. His plans after Highschool are to either attend Arizona State University, or community college in NYC, then attend NYU. His plans for his future after college are likely to go into sales and finance.