What Is Oligopeptide-55?
Oligopeptide-55 is a lab made chain of 12 amino acids that include asparagine, aspartic acid, isoleucine, leucine, methionine, phenylalanine, serine and threonine. These tiny building blocks of protein are linked together in a set order to create a peptide that can send helpful signals to the skin. The ingredient first appeared in cosmetic research in the early 2000s when brands began exploring short peptides for smoother firmer looking skin. It is produced through solid phase peptide synthesis, a method that adds one amino acid at a time to a growing chain, then the finished peptide is purified and dried before it is blended into creams or serums. Because it stays stable in water based formulas and works well with other common skincare ingredients, Oligopeptide-55 is now found in anti aging serums, lightweight moisturizers, rich night creams, sheet masks, eye treatments and post treatment soothing gels.
Oligopeptide-55’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Oligopeptide-55 brings one main benefit to a skincare formula
Skin conditioning: By helping skin hold on to water and encouraging a smoother surface, this peptide leaves the complexion feeling soft and supple while supporting a fresher appearance over time.
Who Can Use Oligopeptide-55
Oligopeptide-55 is gentle and water based, making it suitable for most skin types including dry, normal, combination and oily. Sensitive skin often tolerates it well because the peptide has a low likelihood of causing stinging or congestion. People with very reactive or allergy-prone skin should still pay attention to the overall formula, as added fragrance or harsh preservatives in a product—not the peptide itself—could spark irritation.
The ingredient is created synthetically without any animal-derived material, so it is considered vegan and vegetarian friendly.
Current safety data does not flag Oligopeptide-55 as a concern for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. That said, this information is not medical advice and anyone expecting or nursing should review all skincare products with a healthcare professional before use.
Oligopeptide-55 does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight, so no extra sun precautions are needed beyond the daily SPF recommended for everyone.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Oligopeptide-55 vary from person to person. The effects listed below are potential outcomes and are not expected for the average user when the ingredient is properly formulated and applied.
- Mild redness or warmth – a temporary flush that usually settles once the product is rinsed off or usage is paused
- Localized itching – can occur if the skin barrier is already compromised or if the formula contains additional irritants
- Contact dermatitis – a rare allergic reaction presenting as persistent rash, swelling or flaking
- Eye irritation – possible if the product accidentally enters the eyes during application
If any of these effects appear and do not clear quickly stop using the product and seek medical advice if needed.
Comedogenic RatingRating: 0 out of 5. Oligopeptide-55 is a small water-soluble peptide that contains no oils, waxes or heavy emollients so it does not clog pores. Its lightweight nature lets it sit on the skin’s surface or absorb quickly without leaving residue that could trap dead cells or sebum. This makes it a low-risk choice for those who are prone to acne or breakouts. As with any ingredient, overall pore friendliness depends on the full formula so pair it with similarly non-comedogenic supporting ingredients.
Summary
Oligopeptide-55 conditions skin by attracting and holding water while sending cell-signaling cues that encourage a smoother more supple complexion. Its lab-made 12-amino-acid chain stays stable in water based products and works alongside moisturizers antioxidants and soothing agents without issue.
The peptide enjoys moderate popularity in modern skincare, appearing most often in anti-aging serums, eye creams and sheet masks rather than everyday cleansers or toners. Brands value it for being vegan friendly and easy to formulate but it remains a niche choice compared with heavyweight hydrators like hyaluronic acid.
Current research and product safety data show Oligopeptide-55 is well tolerated for most skin types with minimal risk of irritation or pore blockage. Still, whenever you try a new product that contains this or any active ingredient, patch test first to confirm your skin’s personal comfort level.