What Is Decacarboxymethyl Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-67?
Decacarboxymethyl Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-67 is a lab crafted peptide that links a short chain of five amino acids to a fatty acid called palmitic acid. Each of the peptide’s lysine units is further modified with small carboxymethyl groups, which help the molecule bind water and stay stable in a formula. This smart mix of water-loving and oil-loving parts lets the ingredient sit comfortably on skin while drawing in moisture.
The idea of joining peptides to fatty acids took off in the early 2000s when brands looked for gentler options to retinol. Scientists found that adding a palmitoyl “tail” helps peptides slip through the skin’s outer layer. Extra tweaks like the carboxymethyl groups came later, giving the peptide better water bonding and a smoother feel.
Production starts with fermenting or synthesizing the five-amino-acid peptide. Makers then react it with palmitoyl chloride under controlled conditions, followed by a step that swaps each lysine side chain with a carboxymethyl group. The result is filtered, purified and dried into a fine powder ready for cosmetic use.
You will spot Decacarboxymethyl Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-67 in leave-on products where deep hydration and a plump look are key. Typical formats include serums, moisturizers, sheet masks, eye creams and “anti-aging” concentrates that target fine lines and dryness. It is also blended into soothing after-sun gels and barrier support lotions.
Decacarboxymethyl Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-67’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In formulas this peptide acts in several helpful ways
- Humectant – pulls water from the air and deeper skin layers to the surface, giving skin a dewy, cushioned feel
- Skin conditioning – softens and smooths the skin’s texture, helping it feel silky after application
- Skin protecting – supports the skin barrier by forming a light film that reduces moisture loss and shields against daily stressors
Who Can Use Decacarboxymethyl Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-67
This peptide suits most skin types including dry, normal, combination and oily because it hydrates without leaving a greasy film. Those with sensitive or redness-prone skin often tolerate it well thanks to its gentle, barrier-supporting profile. People dealing with very severe acne or open lesions may wish to wait until skin is intact since any active formula can tingle on compromised areas.
The ingredient is made through laboratory synthesis with no animal-derived substrates so it is generally considered suitable for vegans and vegetarians. Brands that follow a cruelty-free policy can also incorporate it without conflicting with that stance.
No data suggests problems for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when the peptide is used topically at typical cosmetic levels. That said this is not medical advice and anyone expecting or nursing should show the product to their doctor just to be safe.
Decacarboxymethyl Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-67 does not increase photosensitivity so users can apply it morning or night. It layers well with sunscreen antioxidants and gentle exfoliants which makes it easy to slot into most routines.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Decacarboxymethyl Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-67 vary from person to person. The following outlines potential side effects but most users will not experience them when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly.
- Mild redness or flushing
- Transient itching or tingling after application
- Localized irritation on damaged or very sensitive skin
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis presenting as rash or swelling
If any of these reactions occur stop use immediately and consult a healthcare professional for guidance
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
Although the molecule carries a palmitic acid tail, it is used at very low levels and is highly water binding, which keeps it from clogging pores the way pure fatty acids sometimes can. Its peptide backbone is lightweight and does not create an occlusive layer. For these reasons it sits near the bottom of the comedogenic scale.
Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin in most cases.
If a formula pairs this peptide with heavy oils or waxes, overall pore-clogging potential will depend on the full ingredient list rather than the peptide alone.
Summary
Decacarboxymethyl Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-67 pulls in water, reinforces the skin barrier and leaves a smooth protective film. It does this by combining a water-loving modified peptide with an oil-friendly palmitic acid anchor, allowing it to attract moisture while adhering comfortably to the skin surface.
The ingredient is still a niche pick compared with headline peptides like Matrixyl or copper tripeptides, yet formulators appreciate its balanced humectant and barrier support profile so it is appearing in more mid to high tier hydrators and eye creams each year.
Current safety data and real world use show a low risk of irritation or pore blockage when properly formulated. As with any new cosmetic applying a small patch test first helps ensure personal compatibility.