What Is Oligopeptide-145?
Oligopeptide-145 is a lab-crafted chain of 16 amino acids that include alanine, arginine, asparagine, aspartic acid, cysteine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, phenylalanine and tyrosine. Because it is fully synthetic there is no animal or plant extraction involved, which allows for consistent purity and fewer impurities. Peptides began gaining cosmetic attention in the early 2000s when researchers found that short chains of amino acids could signal the skin to behave in more youthful ways. Building on this insight formulators started to design custom peptides like Oligopeptide-145 to deliver targeted benefits.
The ingredient is produced through solid-phase peptide synthesis, a step-by-step process where each amino acid is linked in a specific order on a resin support. After the chain is completed it is cleaved, purified and tested for quality before being blended into cosmetic bases. You will usually spot Oligopeptide-145 in concentrated anti-aging serums, lightweight moisturizers, sheet masks, eye creams and post-procedure soothing gels where its small size allows it to sit close to the skin’s surface and get to work quickly.
Oligopeptide-145’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Oligopeptide-145 acts as a skin-conditioning agent, meaning it helps skin feel softer, smoother and more supple. By supporting the skin’s natural barrier and encouraging a well-hydrated surface it can improve the look of fine lines, add a touch of plumpness and leave the complexion looking fresher overall.
Who Can Use Oligopeptide-145
Because it is lightweight and non-occlusive Oligopeptide-145 is generally well tolerated by dry, normal, combination and oily skin alike, including complexions prone to sensitivity. People with extremely reactive or allergy-prone skin may wish to introduce it slowly simply because any new ingredient can upset an already fragile barrier, yet there is nothing inherent in this peptide that makes it unsuitable for them.
The molecule is produced entirely through synthetic chemistry so no animal-derived materials are involved at any stage, making it appropriate for both vegans and vegetarians.
No data points to a specific risk for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when using topical products containing Oligopeptide-145. This information is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should confirm product choices with a qualified healthcare professional to be safe.
The ingredient does not absorb ultraviolet light or interact with sunlight so it does not cause photosensitivity. It also plays well under makeup and with common actives like niacinamide or hyaluronic acid, giving formulators flexibility when creating multi-benefit products.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects and reactions to topical Oligopeptide-145 vary from person to person. The points below reflect potential issues and are not expected to be the norm for most users when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly.
- Transient redness or warmth shortly after application
- Mild itching or tingling as the product settles
- Dry patches if the formula lacks adequate moisturizers
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to peptides or a formulation’s other components
- Reduced efficacy or unexpected texture changes if layered immediately after very acidic products, as low pH can affect peptide stability
If any negative reaction occurs stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional or dermatologist for guidance.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 / 5 (non-comedogenic)
Oligopeptide-145 is a small, water-soluble molecule with no oily or waxy components so it does not clog pores or sit inside follicles. It is normally used at very low concentrations, further reducing any chance of buildup on the skin. Because of these factors it is considered friendly for those who are prone to acne or breakouts. Its stability in lightweight, fast-absorbing formulas also helps keep pore congestion to a minimum.
Summary
Oligopeptide-145 is a lab-designed 16-amino-acid peptide that conditions skin by supporting barrier function, encouraging hydration and signaling for a smoother surface. These actions can soften fine lines and leave the complexion looking fresher and more supple. While it delivers noticeable skin feel benefits it is still a niche peptide and not as widely featured as big-name actives, though its presence is growing in specialized serums and eye treatments.
Formulators value the ingredient for its clean synthetic origin, predictable purity and excellent safety record. Topical use is regarded as low risk with only rare reports of mild irritation. As with any new cosmetic ingredient it is smart to perform a quick patch test before adding a full-sized product to your routine.