What Is Digalloyl Tetrapeptide-19?
Digalloyl Tetrapeptide-19 is a lab crafted molecule formed when gallic acid, a plant based antioxidant commonly sourced from oak bark or tea leaves, is bonded to the synthetic peptide Tetrapeptide-19. By joining the natural polyphenol with a skin communicating peptide chemists created a multitasking ingredient that blends botanical heritage with modern peptide science.
The concept emerged in the early 2000s when formulators looked for ways to boost antioxidant strength while improving skin tolerance. Pairing gallic acid with a short peptide delivered both goals, and the compound quickly found its way into premium skin care lines focused on urban stress defense and visible aging prevention.
Production happens in a controlled pharmaceutical style setting. Peptide chains are synthesized through stepwise amino acid coupling, gallic acid is purified from plant material or produced through fermentation, then the two parts are linked to form a stable conjugate. The resulting powder is water dispersible, making it easy to add during the cool down phase of cosmetic manufacturing.
You will spot Digalloyl Tetrapeptide-19 most often in antioxidant serums, anti aging moisturizers, sheet masks, eye creams, pollution defense mists and after sun soothers, where it works quietly behind the scenes to shield skin and keep the formula fresh.
Digalloyl Tetrapeptide-19’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient brings several helpful actions to a topical formula
- Antioxidant: Sweeps up free radicals that form from UV light and pollution which helps slow the look of fine lines and keeps oils in the product from turning rancid too quickly
- Chelating: Grabs stray metal ions that can trigger color changes, off odors or early spoilage so the product stays stable and effective for longer
- Skin protecting: Supports the skin’s own barrier function, calms signs of irritation and helps fend off daily environmental stress for a smoother healthier appearance
Who Can Use Digalloyl Tetrapeptide-19
Most skin types, including dry, oily, combination and sensitive, tolerate Digalloyl Tetrapeptide-19 well because it is mild and water based. Very reactive or allergy-prone skin should still approach any new ingredient with caution but there is no known reason this peptide would be unsuitable for a particular type.
The raw materials are synthesized or plant derived with no animal by-products, so formulations containing Digalloyl Tetrapeptide-19 are typically acceptable for vegans and vegetarians. As always, check the full label to be sure the rest of the formula meets personal standards.
Current safety data shows no specific risk for pregnant or breastfeeding women however research on expectant or nursing users is limited. This text is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should ask a healthcare professional before adding new skincare to their routine just to be safe.
The ingredient itself does not increase photosensitivity and can be used day or night. Normal daytime sunscreen habits still apply, especially if the product is paired with other actives that do make skin sun sensitive.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects from topical Digalloyl Tetrapeptide-19 can vary from person to person. The points below describe potential reactions and most users will not experience them when the ingredient is included at standard cosmetic levels and the product is made correctly.
- Mild redness or warmth
- Temporary stinging on very compromised skin
- Itching due to individual sensitivity to gallic acid derivatives
- Contact dermatitis in rare cases of true allergy to the peptide link
- Interaction with leave-on treatments that have high levels of strong acids or retinoids which may heighten irritation
If any of these reactions occur stop use immediately and seek guidance from a medical professional if symptoms persist or worsen.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 / 5. Digalloyl Tetrapeptide-19 is a small water soluble molecule that does not leave an oily film, clog pores or feed acne-causing bacteria. It is typically used at low concentrations and sits comfortably in lightweight serums and gels, so it poses virtually no risk of comedones. This makes it suitable for skin that is prone to acne or breakouts.
Because the peptide is most often paired with non-greasy carriers and stabilizers, its low comedogenicity holds true across different formulations. If it appears alongside heavier plant oils or waxes, those other ingredients—not the peptide—would be the factors to watch.
Summary
Digalloyl Tetrapeptide-19 works as an antioxidant, chelator and skin protector. The gallic acid portion quenches free radicals while the peptide chain helps signal healthier barrier function. Together they grab stray metal ions that could destabilize a formula, defend skin from pollution stress and support a smoother calmer complexion.
Despite these multitasking benefits the ingredient remains a niche choice found mostly in premium urban defense or anti-age products, so it has not yet hit mainstream popularity. When it is used formulators value its clean safety record: available data shows a low irritation potential, no evidence of pore clogging and compatibility with most skin types. As with any new skincare addition it is smart to patch test first to rule out individual sensitivities.