What Is Myristoyl Octapeptide-31?
Myristoyl Octapeptide-31 is a hybrid molecule that links myristic acid, a fatty acid derived from sources such as nutmeg butter and coconut oil, with Octapeptide-31, a lab-crafted chain of eight amino acids. By joining the fatty acid to the peptide, chemists create a compound that can slip more easily into the outer skin layers while still delivering the activity of the peptide core.
The idea of attaching fatty acids to peptides took off in the early 2000s as formulators searched for gentler options to refresh and smooth skin. Myristoyl Octapeptide-31 is one of the newer members of this group, first appearing in specialized anti-aging serums before spreading to mainstream skincare.
Production starts with fermenting or synthesizing the eight specific amino acids in a set sequence. This peptide is then reacted with purified myristic acid in a controlled setting so the two pieces bond at one end. After purification and safety checks, the finished ingredient is a white to off-white powder that dissolves in the water phase of cosmetic formulas.
You will most often see Myristoyl Octapeptide-31 in products that target early signs of aging or aim to boost overall skin smoothness. Common formats include eye creams, face serums, sheet masks, leave-on night creams, and lightweight moisturizers that promise a firmer look.
Myristoyl Octapeptide-31’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In skincare, this ingredient serves a single but important role.
As a skin-conditioning agent it helps the surface of the skin feel softer, more supple, and generally healthier. By supporting the skin’s natural moisture balance and encouraging a smoother texture it can give formulas a noticeable boost in comfort and after-feel, which is why it is popular in products aimed at fine lines and dullness.
Who Can Use Myristoyl Octapeptide-31
Because it is a gentle skin-conditioning agent, Myristoyl Octapeptide-31 is usually suitable for dry, normal, oily and combination skin. The fatty acid portion helps it sit comfortably on dry skin while the lightweight peptide structure keeps it from feeling heavy or greasy on oilier types. Those with highly sensitive or reactive skin should still proceed cautiously, as any new peptide can potentially trigger irritation if the skin barrier is already compromised.
The ingredient is considered vegan and vegetarian friendly when sourced synthetically, which is how most cosmetic grades are produced. No animal derivatives are used in the standard manufacturing process.
Current safety data do not flag Myristoyl Octapeptide-31 as a concern for pregnant or breastfeeding women when used topically. Even so, this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should run any skincare product past a doctor just to be on the safe side.
The molecule does not cause photosensitivity, so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. Normal daily sunscreen habits are still recommended for overall skin health.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects from topical Myristoyl Octapeptide-31 can vary from person to person. The following list covers potential reactions but they are uncommon when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly.
- Mild redness or itching
- Transient stinging on application
- Localized dryness or flaking if layered with strong exfoliants
- Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to peptides or fatty acids
- Breakouts in people who are highly acne prone and react to rich creams in general
If any uncomfortable reaction occurs discontinue use and seek advice from a healthcare professional or dermatologist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 out of 5
Although the molecule carries a myristic acid tail, it is used at very low levels and the peptide portion limits how much of that fatty acid can deposit on skin. In real-world formulas it does not build up in pores the way pure oils or waxes can, so the overall clogging potential is low.
Most people who are prone to acne can use products with Myristoyl Octapeptide-31 without seeing an uptick in breakouts, provided the rest of the formula is lightweight and non-occlusive.
If a product combines this peptide with heavier butters or high amounts of other fatty acids, the finished item could still feel richer and may not suit extremely acne-prone users.
Summary
Myristoyl Octapeptide-31 is a skin-conditioning peptide that softens skin and supports a smoother texture by merging a moisture-friendly fatty acid with an eight-amino-acid chain. The fatty acid enhances penetration while the peptide signals skin to look and feel more supple.
It sits in a niche corner of the peptide market so it is not as famous as ingredients like Matrixyl or copper peptides, but it appears in an increasing number of anti-aging serums, eye creams and masks aimed at early fine lines.
Current research and use levels suggest it is very safe, with only rare reports of mild irritation or clogged pores. As with any new skincare addition, try a small patch first to make sure your skin is happy before applying it more widely.