Butyroyl Pentapeptide-24: 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 23, 2025
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All information on this page is verified using publicly available nomenclature standards and reference materials from The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC) and the European Commission's CosIng database. Our analyses are based on technical data from these sources to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Butyroyl Pentapeptide-24?

Butyroyl Pentapeptide-24 is a lab crafted peptide that forms when butyric acid is bonded to Pentapeptide-24, a chain of five amino acids. The butyric acid tail helps the peptide interact more easily with skin, while the amino acid sequence is designed to signal skin cells to behave in a youthful way. Because it is synthetically produced, the ingredient offers consistent quality and purity compared with naturally derived actives.

The cosmetic industry’s interest in signaling peptides grew in the early 2000s when researchers discovered their ability to prompt collagen-rich behavior in aging skin. Formulators soon began experimenting with different amino acid sequences and fatty acid attachments to improve penetration. Butyroyl Pentapeptide-24 emerged from this wave of innovation and has since appeared in premium anti-aging and skin renewal products.

Manufacturing starts with solid-phase peptide synthesis, where each of the five amino acids is added one by one to create Pentapeptide-24. The completed peptide is then reacted with butyric acid in a controlled setting to attach the butyroyl group. After purification and quality testing the ingredient is delivered as a stable powder or solution ready for blending into cosmetic formulas.

You will most often find Butyroyl Pentapeptide-24 in leave-on products such as serums, eye creams, moisturizers, sheet masks and concentrated anti-aging boosters. Its small molecular size and skin friendly tail make it suitable for lightweight water-based gels as well as richer emulsions.

Butyroyl Pentapeptide-24’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This peptide is valued for a single yet important role in topical skin care formulations.

Skin conditioning: By sending signals that encourage smoother, firmer and better hydrated skin, Butyroyl Pentapeptide-24 helps improve overall texture and radiance. Regular use can support a more youthful look thanks to its ability to promote collagen-like activity and reinforce the skin barrier, making it a popular choice in age defense and revitalizing products.

Who Can Use Butyroyl Pentapeptide-24

Thanks to its gentle nature, Butyroyl Pentapeptide-24 is generally suitable for all skin types including dry, oily, combination and sensitive skin. Its lightweight molecular size lets it sit well in both water based serums and richer creams without clogging pores, so even acne-prone users can usually apply it without worry.

The peptide is produced entirely through laboratory synthesis with no animal derived materials, which makes it appropriate for vegans and vegetarians unless the finished product contains other non-vegan ingredients.

No data currently link Butyroyl Pentapeptide-24 to issues in pregnancy or while breastfeeding but research on expectant and nursing mothers is limited. This information is not medical advice and anyone pregnant or nursing should run any skincare product past a qualified doctor to be on the safe side.

Unlike exfoliating acids or retinoids, the ingredient does not increase skin’s sensitivity to sunlight so it is not considered photosensitising. Daily sunscreen is still recommended as part of a complete routine.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Responses to topical Butyroyl Pentapeptide-24 vary by individual. The following list covers potential side effects, most of which are uncommon when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly.

  • Mild redness or warmth
  • Temporary itching or tingling, especially on very reactive skin
  • Rare allergic contact dermatitis marked by swelling or rash
  • Breakouts if the finished product contains comedogenic accompanying ingredients
  • Watery eyes or slight stinging when applied too close to the lash line

If any of these effects occur discontinue use and seek advice from a healthcare professional or dermatologist.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0. Butyroyl Pentapeptide-24 is a small, water-miscible peptide without heavy oils or waxes that could clog pores, so it earns the lowest score on the comedogenic scale. This makes the ingredient well suited to skin that is prone to acne or breakouts. Because it is typically used at low concentrations and in light textures such as serums and gels, it poses minimal risk of pore blockage. Keep in mind that the overall formula can still trigger congestion if other ingredients are comedogenic.

Summary

Butyroyl Pentapeptide-24 is a lab designed peptide that conditions skin by signaling cells to boost collagen-like activity, reinforce the barrier and improve hydration. These actions translate to smoother, firmer and more radiant skin with consistent use. While not yet a household name, it has carved out a niche in higher-end anti-aging and renewal products thanks to its gentle yet effective profile.

The ingredient is generally considered safe for all skin types with a very low likelihood of irritation or pore clogging. As with any new skincare product it is wise to perform a patch test first to confirm personal compatibility.

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