| abstract |
Peptides derived from the Growth Differentiation Factor 11 (GDF- 11 ) protein and derivatives thereof, topical compositions, and methods of diminishing signs of aging and/or improving health of human integuments are provided. The present invention provides active agents comprising peptides and topical formulations. One aspect of the invention provides compositions for topical use comprising an active agent comprising one or more GDF-1 1-derived peptides or fragments or derivatives thereof. In another aspect, methods are provided for ameliorating and/or preventing signs of human skin photoaging and intrinsic aging (e.g., diminishing the appearance of wrinkles and/or fine lines, tightening sagging skin, thickening thinning skin, evening skin tone, treating hyperpigmentation, etc.) comprising topically applying to the skin (e.g., skin of the face) a composition comprising, in a topically acceptable vehicle, one or more GDF-11-derived peptides of the invention. |