What Is Caffeoyl Oligopeptide-77?
Caffeoyl Oligopeptide-77 is a lab-made ingredient created by joining caffeic acid, a plant compound found in coffee beans and many fruits, with a short chain of amino acids called Oligopeptide-77. By linking the antioxidant power of caffeic acid to a skin-friendly peptide, chemists designed a molecule that sits comfortably on skin and helps improve its feel.
The idea of tying antioxidants to peptides took off in the early 2000s when brands searched for gentler alternatives to harsh preservatives and heavy oils. Peptides were already popular for their skin-supporting roles, so researchers combined them with caffeic acid in controlled lab reactions. The process typically starts with purified caffeic acid from plant sources. The peptide is made in a sterile facility by stringing together select amino acids. Using food-grade coupling agents, the two parts are bonded, then filtered and dried into a fine powder ready for cosmetic use.
Caffeoyl Oligopeptide-77 is most often found in lightweight leave-on products such as anti aging serums, daily moisturizers, eye creams, soothing masks and targeted spot treatments. Its mild nature lets formulators add it to both water-based gels and richer creams without altering texture or scent.
Caffeoyl Oligopeptide-77’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In skin care formulas Caffeoyl Oligopeptide-77 serves primarily as a skin conditioning agent, meaning it helps skin look and feel healthier.
As a conditioner it forms a breathable layer on the surface that supports the skin’s own barrier, softens rough spots and gives a smoother finish. Because the caffeic acid portion has antioxidant traits it also helps protect the formula from minor oxidation, which can keep the product looking fresh longer while offering gentle comfort to stressed skin.
Who Can Use Caffeoyl Oligopeptide-77
This peptide-antioxidant combo is mild enough for most skin types including dry, normal, oily, combination and sensitive. Because it is lightweight and non greasy it will not weigh down oily complexions yet still offers a comforting feel for dry or irritation-prone skin. There are no known reasons it would be unsuitable for specific skin types unless an individual has a rare allergy to caffeic acid or certain amino acids.
The ingredient is synthesized in a lab from plant-derived caffeic acid and a lab-built peptide so it contains no animal by-products. That makes it appropriate for both vegans and vegetarians as long as the finished product also meets cruelty-free and animal-origin standards.
Current research has not flagged any issues for pregnant or breastfeeding users when Caffeoyl Oligopeptide-77 is applied topically in normal cosmetic amounts. Still, this is not medical advice; anyone who is pregnant or nursing should review any new skincare item with a qualified healthcare provider to be completely sure it fits their personal situation.
The molecule does not absorb UV light or make skin more reactive to sunshine so it is not considered photosensitizing. Daily sunscreen is still a smart habit, but extra sun precautions are not needed specifically because of this ingredient.
No other notable usage restrictions or incompatibilities have been reported, making it a flexible choice for daytime and nighttime formulas alike.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Caffeoyl Oligopeptide-77 can differ from one person to another. The points below outline possible outcomes, yet they are uncommon when the ingredient is used correctly in well-formulated products.
- Mild redness or warmth on very sensitive skin
- Temporary tingling sensation during first uses
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis for those already allergic to caffeic acid or specific peptides
- Stinging if applied to open cuts or active eczema flare-ups
If any irritation, swelling or persistent discomfort occurs stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 / 5
Caffeoyl Oligopeptide-77 is water soluble, lightweight and used at low percentages, so it does not leave an occlusive or greasy residue that could trap dead cells inside pores. It has no long chain fatty acids or waxes that typically raise clogging risk, which is why it sits at the bottom of the comedogenic scale.
Because of this rating, it is generally considered suitable for skin that is prone to acne or frequent breakouts.
No data suggest it worsens fungal acne, and it does not interact with common acne treatments like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, making it easy to slot into a blemish focused routine.
Summary
Caffeoyl Oligopeptide-77 is primarily a skin conditioning agent that softens texture, supports the moisture barrier and offers a light antioxidant assist thanks to its caffeic acid half. By chemically pairing an antioxidant with a short peptide chain, chemists created a molecule that rests on skin, attracts water and helps formulas feel silky.
The ingredient is still a niche add-on compared with headline actives like niacinamide or vitamin C, but it is gaining quiet traction in indie serums and eye creams where gentle barrier support matters.
Available safety data show a very low irritation rate, and its non-comedogenic nature makes it broadly user-friendly. Even so it is smart to patch test any new product to rule out personal sensitivity and ensure the overall formula agrees with your skin.