What Is Dipeptide-5?
Dipeptide-5 is a lab-made peptide built from two amino acids, lysine and valine, linked together in a short chain. Scientists originally explored small peptides like this for their ability to signal and support skin renewal, which led to Dipeptide-5 finding a place in modern cosmetic labs. It is produced through solid-phase peptide synthesis, a precise, step-by-step process that strings the amino acids together, then purifies the final compound so it is suitable for skin care use. Because it is synthetic, supply is consistent and free from animal or plant allergens. You will most often spot Dipeptide-5 in anti-aging serums, lightweight moisturizers, eye creams, sheet masks and leave-on treatments aimed at improving overall skin feel.
Dipeptide-5’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In formulas Dipeptide-5 acts as a skin conditioning ingredient. By supporting the skin’s natural proteins it helps maintain a smoother, softer surface and can lend a more supple appearance over time.
Who Can Use Dipeptide-5
Dipeptide-5 is generally suitable for all skin types, including dry, oily, combination and sensitive skin, because it is a lightweight conditioning agent that does not add heavy oils or clog pores. People with acne-prone skin can usually use it without worry since it is non-comedogenic. There are no specific skin types that need to avoid it, though anyone with a known allergy to peptides or one of the formula’s other ingredients should be cautious.
Because Dipeptide-5 is made entirely in a lab from basic building blocks, it contains no animal-derived material, making it an option that fits vegan and vegetarian lifestyles.
Current research has not flagged Dipeptide-5 as an ingredient of concern for pregnancy or breastfeeding. That said this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should run any skin care routine past a qualified healthcare provider to be safe.
Dipeptide-5 does not cause photosensitivity so it will not make the skin more prone to sunburn. Normal daily sun protection habits remain important for overall skin health.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects or reactions to topical Dipeptide-5 can vary from person to person. The points below list potential issues only and they are unlikely to occur for most users when the ingredient is used correctly in a well-formulated product.
- Mild redness or irritation particularly on very reactive or compromised skin
- Itching or tingling during initial applications as the skin adjusts
- Contact dermatitis in rare cases of individual sensitivity to peptides or other formula components
- Stinging around the eyes if a product is applied too close to the lash line
If any of these effects appear and do not calm quickly discontinue use and seek advice from a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 / 5. Dipeptide-5 is a very small, water-soluble peptide that does not leave an oily film or block pores. It is used at low concentrations and readily rinses or absorbs without residue, so it lacks the characteristics that usually trigger breakouts. This makes it a friendly choice for acne-prone skin. No data link it to follicular clogging or excess sebum production.
Because it is non-occlusive and free of fats or waxes, formulators often pair Dipeptide-5 with lightweight gels or serums aimed at congested or combination skin.
Summary
Dipeptide-5 is a lab-crafted two-amino-acid peptide that conditions skin by supporting its natural protein matrix, helping it feel smoother and look more supple. Its gentle, water-based nature means it blends easily into modern serums, eye creams and masks without adding heaviness.
The peptide is not yet a household name like hyaluronic acid or niacinamide, but its stable supply and compatibility with most skin types are steadily boosting its presence in new launches, especially targeted anti-age formulas.
Overall safety is high, with low risk of irritation and no known systemic concerns. Still, skin is personal, so a small patch test with any new product containing Dipeptide-5 is a smart precaution.