What Is Oligopeptide-79?
Oligopeptide-79 is a lab-crafted chain of 13 amino acids built from alanine, glutamic acid, leucine and lysine. Because it is synthetic, chemists can control its purity and performance, giving formulators a predictable ingredient that behaves the same way every time. The peptide was first explored by cosmetic scientists looking for lightweight alternatives to heavy oils and silicones for improving hair feel. Using a technique called solid-phase peptide synthesis, each amino acid is added one by one to create the final sequence, which is then purified and dried into a powder. Once ready for use, the powder dissolves easily in water-based solutions, making it friendly for modern formulation methods. You are most likely to find Oligopeptide-79 in leave-in conditioners, rinse-off conditioners, hair masks, smoothing serums and strengthening shampoos where it supports softness and shine without weighing the hair down.
Oligopeptide-79’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In products for hair care, Oligopeptide-79 acts as a hair conditioning agent. By attaching to the damaged areas along the hair shaft, it helps smooth the cuticle, reduce frizz, boost shine and improve overall manageability. Regular use can leave strands feeling silkier and looking healthier, giving an immediate cosmetic upgrade while helping protect against daily stressors like brushing and heat styling.
Who Can Use Oligopeptide-79
Oligopeptide-79 is gentle enough for most scalp and hair types, including dry, oily, color treated and sensitive. Because the molecule stays mainly on the hair surface rather than absorbing into skin, it rarely causes irritation. Those with a known sensitivity to proteins may notice that very high levels can leave strands feeling stiff, so they may prefer formulas where the peptide is lower on the ingredient list.
The peptide is produced completely in the lab without animal derived materials, so it suits both vegetarians and vegans. Manufacturers typically dissolve it in water or plant based solvents, keeping the entire supply chain free from animal inputs.
Current research has not flagged any concerns for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the ingredient is used topically. That said, this is not medical advice. Anyone who is expecting or nursing should review every personal care product with a healthcare professional just to stay on the safe side.
Oligopeptide-79 does not make skin or hair more sensitive to sunlight, so you do not need special sun precautions beyond a normal daytime sunscreen. It also plays well with common actives such as niacinamide, panthenol and plant oils, letting formulators build layered benefits without worry about instability.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Oligopeptide-79 differ from person to person. The points below list potential side effects, but they are uncommon when the ingredient is used correctly in a finished cosmetic product.
- Mild scalp redness or itching
- Temporary tingling on application
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis for those sensitized to peptides
- Hair stiffness if overused on protein sensitive hair
If you notice any of these reactions stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 / 5
Oligopeptide-79 is a water-soluble peptide that stays on the surface of the hair shaft rather than settling into skin pores. Its large molecular size and lack of oils mean it does not create the kind of oily film that can trap dead cells or bacteria. Because of that, it earns a solid zero on the comedogenic scale.
People who are prone to acne or breakouts can generally use products containing Oligopeptide-79 without worrying about extra clogged pores.
Keep in mind that the final product formula matters. If the peptide is blended with heavy waxes or butters, the overall product could still feel greasy even though the peptide itself is not pore-clogging.
Summary
Oligopeptide-79 is a lab-made 13-amino-acid peptide that works in hair care as a lightweight conditioning agent. By latching onto damaged spots on the cuticle it smooths rough edges, cuts down frizz, boosts shine and helps hair feel softer and easier to manage.
The peptide is still a niche addition rather than a household name, but interest in peptide-based hair products is rising so you will likely see it pop up in more leave-in creams, masks and shampoos.
Topical safety data look good with only rare reports of mild irritation or protein overload on very sensitive hair. While the ingredient itself ranks zero for comedogenicity and is considered low risk, it is always smart to do a quick patch test with any new product to rule out personal sensitivities.