What Is Galloyl Tripeptide-48?
Galloyl Tripeptide-48 is a lab made ingredient created by joining galloyl chloride, a plant derived antioxidant unit, with a short chain of three amino acids known as Tripeptide-48. The result is a small, stable molecule that blends the free-radical fighting power of gallic acid with the skin friendly nature of peptides. Peptides have been popular in skincare since the late 1990s, but linking them with antioxidant groups is a newer idea that gained traction in the past decade as brands searched for multitasking actives that protect and support aging skin.
The process starts with isolating gallic acid from sources like oak galls or green tea leaves. Chemists convert the acid to galloyl chloride so it can easily bond with the peptide. In a controlled setting the two components react, are purified then dried into a fine powder that dissolves well in water based formulas.
Because it is water soluble and heat tolerant, Galloyl Tripeptide-48 shows up in lightweight products such as serums, essences, sheet masks and hydrating gels. It is also common in richer anti-aging creams, eye treatments and after-sun products where added antioxidant support is welcome.
Galloyl Tripeptide-48’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient offers a blend of protection and care, making it a useful add-on in many modern skincare formulas.
- Antioxidant – Helps neutralize free radicals caused by UV light and pollution, which may slow the look of premature aging and reduce dullness
- Skin protecting – Supports the skin barrier by defending against environmental stressors, aiding in a smoother, healthier appearance over time
Who Can Use Galloyl Tripeptide-48
Galloyl Tripeptide-48 is considered suitable for most skin types, including oily, dry, combination and even sensitive skin, thanks to its lightweight water based nature and gentle peptide backbone. Those with very reactive or compromised skin should still check the full formula for other possible irritants, but the peptide itself is generally well tolerated.
The ingredient is produced in a lab from plant derived gallic acid and synthetically built amino acids, with no animal sourced components, so it is compatible with vegan and vegetarian lifestyles.
No specific safety concerns have been flagged for pregnant or breastfeeding women. That said, research on expectant and nursing mothers is limited, so this information is not medical advice and anyone in these groups should show the product to their doctor or midwife before use just to be safe.
Galloyl Tripeptide-48 does not increase photosensitivity. In fact its antioxidant action can help counter some of the stress caused by sunlight, though it is not a substitute for sunscreen. It plays well with common actives like vitamin C or niacinamide and can be layered under moisturizers and SPF without stability issues.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Galloyl Tripeptide-48 vary from person to person. The issues listed below are only potential side effects and are unlikely for the average user when the ingredient is formulated correctly.
- Mild redness or flushing
- Transient stinging or tingling, especially on freshly exfoliated skin
- Dry patches if the overall formula lacks adequate emollients for very dry skin
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis presenting as itch or small bumps
- Interaction irritation when layered with highly acidic or high percentage retinoid products
If any persistent discomfort or visible irritation develops, stop using the product and seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 / 5
Galloyl Tripeptide-48 is fully water soluble, has a very low molecular weight and contains no oily or waxy residues that could block pores. It is typically used at low concentrations, so it does not build up on the skin surface. Because of these factors formulators consider it non-comedogenic.
Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin.
If the end product pairs the peptide with heavier emollients or butters the overall formula could still be pore clogging, so always check the full ingredient list.
Summary
Galloyl Tripeptide-48 delivers two primary benefits: it acts as an antioxidant that mops up free radicals generated by UV light and pollution, and it helps protect the skin barrier by reinforcing the surface environment. The gallic acid portion handles most of the free radical scavenging while the peptide chain improves water compatibility and skin affinity so the molecule can sit comfortably on the skin and do its job.
Although not a household name like retinol or vitamin C, the ingredient is gaining quiet traction in high-end serums and eye creams where brands look for multitasking actives that do not irritate. Its lab origin also appeals to formulators focused on vegan and sustainable options.
Current safety data shows a very low risk profile with only rare reports of irritation. Still, everyone’s skin is unique, so it is wise to patch test any new product containing Galloyl Tripeptide-48 before applying it all over the face.