What Is Palmitoyl Dipeptide-7 Maltoside Tripeptide-69?
Palmitoyl Dipeptide-7 Maltoside Tripeptide-69 is a lab-crafted peptide blend that couples short chains of amino acids with a fatty acid (palmitic acid) and a sugar unit made from maltose. This combo helps the peptide slip through the skin’s surface and stay stable in a water-based formula. The idea of attaching peptides to lipids and sugars took off in the early 2000s when chemists looked for ways to mimic the skin’s own building blocks while boosting penetration. Today many suppliers make this ingredient by first synthesizing the tiny peptide strands, then linking them to palmitic acid and maltose in a controlled, solvent-free reaction. The final powder is purified, dried and shipped to cosmetic labs. You will usually spot it in lightweight serums, anti-aging creams, sheet masks, eye treatments and any moisturizer that promises a plumper, smoother look.
Palmitoyl Dipeptide-7 Maltoside Tripeptide-69’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient earns its place on a label thanks to two core roles
- Humectant – draws water from the air and deeper skin layers to the surface so formulas feel fresh and keep skin comfortably hydrated for hours
- Skin conditioning – helps soften rough patches, support the skin barrier and give an overall smoother texture which can make fine lines appear less obvious
Who Can Use Palmitoyl Dipeptide-7 Maltoside Tripeptide-69
Thanks to its light, water-binding nature this peptide blend suits almost every skin type including oily, combination, normal, dry and sensitive skin. It adds moisture without a greasy feel so even acne-prone users generally tolerate it well. Those with very reactive or allergy-prone skin should still check the full ingredient list of any product to spot possible triggers like fragrance or certain preservatives.
The ingredient is made entirely in the lab from plant-derived or synthetic building blocks so it is considered suitable for vegans and vegetarians. Nothing in its standard production relies on animal tissue or by-products.
No data suggests that Palmitoyl Dipeptide-7 Maltoside Tripeptide-69 carries hormonal activity or other risks for pregnant or breastfeeding women. Still, this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should show their doctor every skincare item they plan to use just to be safe.
The peptide does not increase photosensitivity so it will not make skin more likely to burn in the sun. Normal daytime sun protection habits are still recommended, especially if your routine already includes exfoliating acids or retinoids.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Palmitoyl Dipeptide-7 Maltoside Tripeptide-69 vary from person to person. The points below outline possible issues yet most users experience none of them when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly.
- Transient tingling a brief warm or prickly feeling when first applied especially on freshly exfoliated skin
- Redness or flushing minor temporary redness can appear in very sensitive skin
- Itchiness rare histamine-type itching may show up if the immune system reacts to the peptide chain
- Contact dermatitis extremely uncommon inflammatory rash linked to an individual allergy either to the peptide or another ingredient in the same product
- Interaction with highly acidic formulas very low pH products can break down peptides which could lead to reduced efficacy or heightened irritation
If any discomfort or visible reaction develops stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional or dermatologist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5 (very low clogging risk)
The peptide complex is largely water soluble, used at tiny concentrations and does not form a heavy film on skin. Even though it carries a palmitic acid tail the full molecule is too bulky and polar to behave like free fatty acids that can block pores, keeping its comedogenicity minimal.
Overall it is considered suitable for acne-prone skin.
Remember the finished product matters: pairings with thick butters or waxes could raise pore-clogging potential even if the peptide itself stays low risk.
Summary
Palmitoyl Dipeptide-7 Maltoside Tripeptide-69 works as a humectant and skin-conditioning agent, binding water to boost hydration while smoothing and supporting the barrier. The attached maltose and palmitic groups steady the peptide and help it travel through both watery and oily phases so it can do its job effectively.
It is not as famous as peptides like Matrixyl yet its gentle nature and dual hydrating benefits are earning it quiet popularity in new serums and eye treatments.
Available data points to a very safe profile with rare irritation. All the same, patch test any new product containing this ingredient to be sure your skin stays happy.