What Is Dipeptide-15?
Dipeptide-15, also listed as Glycine Dipeptide or Glycyl Glycine, is a tiny two–amino acid chain made from repeating units of glycine, the simplest amino acid found in many proteins. In modern production it is created in a lab through controlled fermentation or solid-phase peptide synthesis, processes that link purified glycine molecules into a stable dipeptide. This lab design keeps the ingredient free of impurities and suitable for skin and hair care.
Peptides started gaining attention in cosmetics in the early 2000s when researchers discovered that short amino acid chains could support the look and feel of skin and hair. Dipeptide-15 joined product formulas soon after because its small size lets it penetrate the surface layers easily while remaining gentle.
You will most often spot Dipeptide-15 in lightweight moisturizers, anti-aging serums, leave-in conditioners, scalp treatments, sheet masks and hair masks. Brands favor it when they want to add a conditioning boost without heavy oils or waxes.
Dipeptide-15’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Formulators include Dipeptide-15 for its multitasking conditioning abilities that cater to both skin and hair.
- Hair conditioning – helps smooth the cuticle, reduce static and improve manageability so strands feel softer and look shinier
- Skin conditioning – supports the skin’s natural moisture balance, leaving it feeling supple and comfortable while giving formulas a light silky finish
Who Can Use Dipeptide-15
Dipeptide-15 is gentle enough for most skin types, including dry, oily, combination and sensitive skin, because it lacks harsh acids or heavy oils. People with a known allergy to glycine-based peptides should avoid it but this is rare.
The ingredient is produced through lab fermentation or peptide synthesis with no animal-derived inputs, making it suitable for vegans and vegetarians.
Current data shows no specific risks for pregnant or breastfeeding women when Dipeptide-15 is used on the skin or hair. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should review any new cosmetic product with a qualified healthcare provider before use to be safe.
Dipeptide-15 is not known to increase photosensitivity so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. Standard daytime sun protection is still recommended for overall skin health.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Dipeptide-15 vary from person to person. The effects listed below are possible but uncommon when the ingredient is included at typical cosmetic levels and formulated correctly.
- Temporary redness or flushing on very reactive skin
- Mild itching or tingling, especially on broken or compromised skin
- Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to peptides
- Eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
If any of these effects occur stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional if symptoms persist or worsen.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 / 5
Dipeptide-15 is a tiny water-soluble molecule that does not leave an oily film or clog pores. It is typically used at low concentrations and easily rinses or absorbs without lingering on the skin surface. Because it lacks heavy lipids and waxes that can block follicles it is considered non-comedogenic.
Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin.
As with any water-based peptide, the overall formula matters; if the product contains rich butters or comedogenic oils the finished item could still cause congestion even though Dipeptide-15 itself does not.
Summary
Dipeptide-15 is a lab-made two-glycine peptide used mainly to condition hair and skin. Its small size lets it slip between damaged cuticles or the upper layers of the epidermis where it helps retain moisture, smooth texture and boost softness without heaviness. While peptides as a group are well known in skincare, this specific dipeptide remains a quiet workhorse rather than a star ingredient, showing up in targeted formulas that want a lightweight conditioning touch.
Safety data and user reports show Dipeptide-15 is generally very well tolerated with a low risk of irritation or pore clogging. As with any new cosmetic ingredient it is wise to patch test a product before full use to confirm personal compatibility.