What Is Dipeptide-17?
Dipeptide-17 is a lab made peptide built from two of the body’s simplest amino acids, glycine and proline. When the two are linked together they form a short chain known as a dipeptide, small enough to sink into the upper layers of skin without trouble. Because it is produced synthetically, no animal or plant is harvested for it, which helps with consistency and keeps the ingredient friendly for vegan formulas.
The use of short peptides in beauty care took off in the early 2000s when researchers showed that certain chains could encourage fresher looking skin. Dipeptide-17 joined the roster as chemists searched for even smaller molecules that could deliver results with a lighter feel. It is made through a method called solid-phase peptide synthesis, where each amino acid is added one at a time to a growing chain on a resin bead. This tight control means every batch is identical, an advantage for quality and safety.
You will spot Dipeptide-17 in eye creams, brow and lash serums, anti-aging moisturizers, sheet masks, leave-on essences and other treatment products that promise a smoother, more conditioned look. It is usually blended at low levels alongside hydrators and antioxidants to boost the overall performance of the formula.
Dipeptide-17’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Dipeptide-17 is prized for its skin conditioning talent. By helping the surface of the skin feel softer and more supple it supports a healthier appearance and can make other active ingredients perform better. Regular use can give the complexion a fresher look while lending a silky after-feel to the product itself.
Who Can Use Dipeptide-17
Dipeptide-17 is gentle enough for most skin types including dry, oily, normal and combination. Its lightweight texture and non greasy feel mean it rarely clogs pores, making it a friendly pick for acne-prone and sensitive skin as well. Those with highly reactive skin should still proceed carefully if they know they are prone to peptide allergies, but problems are uncommon.
Because the molecule is made entirely in the lab without any animal by-products it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians. The synthetic process also removes concerns about animal sourcing variability which can be important for ethical shoppers.
Current research shows no specific risks for pregnant or breastfeeding women when Dipeptide-17 is applied to skin. Data is still limited so this is not medical advice; anyone expecting or nursing should ask their healthcare provider before adding new products, just to be safe.
Dipeptide-17 does not increase photosensitivity, so it will not make skin burn faster in the sun. Daily sunscreen is still advised for overall skin health but no extra sun precautions are needed because of this ingredient.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Dipeptide-17 can vary from person to person. The points below list potential side effects yet they remain unlikely for the average user when the ingredient is used correctly in a well-formulated product.
- Temporary redness or mild irritation – usually subsides once the product is removed
- Dry or tight feeling – may occur if the formula lacks adequate moisturizers
- Itching or stinging – more common on already compromised or freshly exfoliated skin
- Allergic contact dermatitis – rare but possible in individuals sensitive to peptides or a preservative in the finished product
- Hives or swelling – very rare, could signal an immediate allergy requiring prompt care
- Increased irritation when layered with strong actives – pairing with high levels of acids or retinoids might heighten discomfort in sensitive users
If any of these reactions appear stop using the product and seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 / 5
Dipeptide-17 is a tiny water-soluble molecule that does not leave an oily film or sit in pores, so it earns the lowest possible comedogenic score. It is usually added at very small amounts and is carried in lightweight bases that rinse or absorb easily. For these reasons it is generally a safe pick for people prone to acne or breakouts.
Keep in mind the overall formula matters. Heavy oils, waxes or rich butters paired with Dipeptide-17 could still clog pores even though the peptide itself does not.
Summary
Dipeptide-17 is a lab crafted dipeptide made of glycine and proline that conditions skin, helping it feel smoother, softer and better hydrated. Its small size lets it nestle into the surface layers where it supports a healthy look and can improve the feel of other actives.
The peptide shows up most often in eye products, lash and brow serums and some anti-age moisturizers. It is not yet a mainstream star like peptides such as Matrixyl, but formulators who want a light, vegan friendly conditioning boost reach for it more each year.
Safety data points to a very low risk of irritation and no known long-term hazards when used in the tiny amounts found in cosmetics. Still every skin is different so it is smart to patch test any new product with Dipeptide-17 before diving into full-face use.