What Is Ursoloyl Tetrapeptide-37?
Ursoloyl Tetrapeptide-37 is a hybrid molecule that joins ursolic acid, a plant compound often sourced from apple skins and rosemary leaves, with a short chain of four amino acids known as tetrapeptide-37. By linking a botanical antioxidant to a skin-friendly peptide, scientists created an ingredient that offers the strengths of both parts in one stable form. The idea first appeared in the early 2010s as brands searched for gentler alternatives to harsh anti-aging actives. The production process involves purifying natural ursolic acid, synthesizing tetrapeptide-37 in a lab, then coupling them through a controlled reaction that keeps each piece active while preventing oxidation.
Thanks to its balanced oil-and-water profile, Ursoloyl Tetrapeptide-37 mixes well into many leave-on formulas. You will most often see it in serums, eye creams, day and night moisturizers, sheet masks, after-sun gels, firming neck creams and other targeted anti-aging treatments where extra protection and repair are welcome.
Ursoloyl Tetrapeptide-37’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In skin care formulas Ursoloyl Tetrapeptide-37 pulls double duty, delivering benefits that keep skin looking healthy and resilient
- Antioxidant – helps neutralize free radicals created by UV light and pollution, which can otherwise lead to dullness and early wrinkles
- Skin protecting – supports the skin barrier by reinforcing surface proteins and lipids so skin stays hydrated, comfortable and less prone to irritation
Who Can Use Ursoloyl Tetrapeptide-37
This peptide-linked antioxidant is considered gentle enough for most skin types including dry, normal, combination and oily. Its barrier-supporting action can even soothe easily irritated or sensitized skin, although anyone with a history of allergies to botanical extracts should check the full ingredient list of the finished product for possible plant-based helpers that could pose a problem.
Ursoloyl Tetrapeptide-37 is produced from plant-sourced ursolic acid and a lab-synthesized peptide, with no animal-derived inputs, so it is suitable for both vegetarians and vegans. The manufacturing process also aligns with common clean beauty standards because it avoids animal testing in regions where that is legally permitted.
There is no evidence that the molecule disrupts hormones or penetrates deeply enough to affect fetal development, so it is generally viewed as pregnancy and breastfeeding friendly. Still this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should run every skincare product past a qualified doctor to be safe.
The ingredient does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight. In fact its antioxidant activity can help defend against UV-induced free radicals, though daily sunscreen is still essential. Ursoloyl Tetrapeptide-37 also plays well alongside most other actives including vitamin C, niacinamide and hyaluronic acid making it easy to slot into an existing routine.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Ursoloyl Tetrapeptide-37 vary from person to person. The issues below are possible but unlikely when the ingredient is correctly formulated and used as directed.
- Mild redness or warmth at the application site
- Temporary itching or stinging that subsides within minutes
- Contact dermatitis in individuals allergic to ursolic acid derivatives or specific preservatives in the formula
- Breakouts if the product is suspended in a heavy, pore-clogging base
- Heightened irritation when layered immediately with strong acids or prescription retinoids
If you experience any unwanted reaction stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5 – Ursoloyl Tetrapeptide-37 itself is a lightweight molecule with a balanced oil-water profile that does not tend to block pores. The peptide portion is water soluble while the ursolic acid tail is only mildly lipophilic, so the whole compound sits on the skin surface without forming an occlusive film. Any breakouts reported with products containing this ingredient are usually traced back to richer carrier oils or waxes in the overall formula rather than the active itself. Because of its low clogging potential, Ursoloyl Tetrapeptide-37 is generally suitable for acne-prone or congestion-prone skin.
Keep in mind that finished products vary: a feather-light serum will feel very different from a thick night cream. Always consider the entire ingredient list when gauging pore safety.
Summary
Ursoloyl Tetrapeptide-37 pairs the antioxidant power of plant-derived ursolic acid with the skin-supporting benefits of a four-amino-acid peptide. Together they neutralize free radicals and shore up the skin barrier, helping keep moisture in and irritation out. The molecule is still a niche addition compared with household names like vitamin C or hyaluronic acid, but it is gaining quiet traction in modern anti-aging serums, eye gels and barrier creams thanks to its gentle multitasking profile.
Current safety data show low irritation risk and virtually no comedogenicity, making the ingredient appropriate for most skin types including sensitive and acne-prone. As with any new skincare product it is wise to perform a small patch test first to rule out personal sensitivities.