Oligopeptide-63: What Is It, Cosmetic Uses, Benefits & Side Effects

Curious about this ingredient? In this article we're explaining exactly what it is and why it's used within cosmetic formulations.
Updated on: June 30, 2025
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We verify all information on this page using publicly available nomenclature standards from The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), the European Commission's CosIng database and documentation provided directly by ingredient manufacturers. Our analysis is based on technical data from these sources to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Oligopeptide-63?

Oligopeptide-63 is a lab-made chain of 13 amino acids that include alanine, arginine, aspartic acid, glutamic acid, histidine, isoleucine, leucine, serine, threonine and tyrosine. Scientists first explored short peptides like this in the early 2000s while searching for gentler alternatives to harsher anti-aging ingredients. By arranging select amino acids in a precise order, researchers discovered they could prompt skin to behave as if it had received signals from naturally occurring growth factors. Oligopeptide-63 is produced through solid-phase peptide synthesis, a step-by-step process that links each amino acid to the next on a resin platform, then detaches and purifies the finished peptide for cosmetic use. Because it is fully synthetic, it avoids animal-derived sources and offers consistent quality. You are most likely to find Oligopeptide-63 in serums, wrinkle-targeted creams, sheet masks, eye treatments and high-performance moisturizers that aim to smooth texture and boost overall skin vitality.

Oligopeptide-63’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

Formulators rely on Oligopeptide-63 for one key reason

Skin conditioning: The peptide supports a healthier skin barrier by encouraging better hydration and surface renewal. Regular use can leave skin feeling softer, looking firmer and appearing more even in tone, making it a popular addition to products marketed for age defense and radiance boosting.

Who Can Use Oligopeptide-63

Oligopeptide-63 is generally well tolerated by most skin types, including normal, dry, oily and combination, because it focuses on conditioning rather than exfoliating or heavily stimulating the skin. Those with very reactive or ultra-sensitive skin may still want to introduce it slowly since any new active can trigger irritation in that group.

The peptide is fully synthetic with no animal-derived inputs, making it suitable for vegans and vegetarians who prefer cruelty-free ingredient pathways.

Pregnant or breastfeeding users can usually use products containing Oligopeptide-63 without special restrictions, but this is not medical advice. Anyone who is expecting or nursing should discuss all skincare choices with a qualified healthcare provider to be on the safe side.

Oligopeptide-63 is not known to cause photosensitivity, so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. Standard daytime sun protection is still recommended for overall skin health.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Reactions to topical Oligopeptide-63 vary from person to person. The issues listed below are only potential outcomes and are unlikely for most users when the ingredient has been formulated correctly.

  • Temporary redness or warmth
  • Mild stinging or tingling on application
  • Itchy patches or dryness in sensitive individuals
  • Rare allergic response such as hives swelling or rash
  • Contact dermatitis in those with a known peptide allergy

If any unpleasant reaction occurs stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional or dermatologist for further guidance.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0 / 5

Oligopeptide-63 is a small water-soluble peptide that lacks the heavy oils waxes or fatty acids usually linked to pore clogging. It sits on the skin surface or is absorbed quickly without leaving an occlusive film, so it is classed as non-comedogenic. This makes it appropriate for people who are prone to acne or frequent breakouts.

Keep in mind overall product formulation matters. If the peptide is blended with rich butters or high-density silicones the final product could still block pores even though Oligopeptide-63 itself does not.

Summary

Oligopeptide-63 is a lab-crafted 13-amino-acid peptide valued for its skin-conditioning ability. By mimicking signals from natural growth factors it encourages better hydration, helps reinforce the barrier and supports smoother surface renewal, which can translate to firmer texture and a more even tone.

The peptide shows up mainly in premium serums eye creams and targeted anti-aging treatments, so it is not yet as common as classic peptides like Matrixyl but its presence is steadily growing as brands look for gentle performance ingredients.

Overall safety is high with a low risk of irritation or pore blockage. Still, every formula is different and individual sensitivities vary, so it is smart to patch test any new product that features Oligopeptide-63 before fully adding it to your routine.

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