What Is Myristoyl Hexapeptide-5?
Myristoyl Hexapeptide-5 is a lab made ingredient created by attaching myristic acid, a fatty acid found in coconut oil and nutmeg, to a tiny chain of six amino acids: valine, tyrosine, glutamic acid, proline and isoleucine. The fatty acid side helps the peptide slip through the skin’s oily surface while the amino acid chain aims to signal a healthier looking complexion. Peptide technology took off in skin care in the 1990s, and this specific blend was developed soon after as researchers looked for ways to combine the smoothing feel of fatty acids with the targeted action of peptides.
Production begins with synthesizing the hexapeptide in a controlled lab setting. The peptide is then reacted with myristic acid using standard peptide coupling steps, purified and dried into a fine powder. The finished material dissolves in oils or emulsions, making it easy for formulators to add to creams and serums during the cool-down phase.
You will usually see Myristoyl Hexapeptide-5 in face serums, eye treatments, anti aging creams, sheet masks and leave-on moisturizers where brands want to boost the skin conditioning feel without adding heaviness.
Myristoyl Hexapeptide-5’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient is valued for the way it helps skin feel smoother and look more refreshed.
As a skin conditioning agent it supports the skin’s surface so it feels softer and looks more even, which can enhance the overall sensory experience of a product and give a temporary plumping effect that makes fine lines appear less noticeable.
Who Can Use Myristoyl Hexapeptide-5
This peptide–fatty acid hybrid is gentle enough for most skin types. Its lightweight nature means it will not clog oily or acne-prone skin while the conditioning effect offers welcome softness to normal and dry complexions. People with very sensitive skin can generally tolerate it, though they should be mindful of the full formula it appears in rather than the peptide itself.
The ingredient is produced from a lab-made peptide joined to myristic acid that is typically sourced from coconut or palm, so it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians as long as the finished product avoids animal-derived additives elsewhere in the formula.
No research indicates that Myristoyl Hexapeptide-5 poses a particular risk to pregnant or breastfeeding women when used topically, yet this is not medical advice and anyone expecting or nursing should confirm safety with a healthcare professional before adding new products to their routine.
The peptide does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight, so it has no special photo-protective requirements beyond the daily sunscreen already recommended for healthy skin.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Myristoyl Hexapeptide-5 differ from person to person. The points below outline potential side effects although they are uncommon when the ingredient is properly formulated and used as directed.
- Mild redness or warmth shortly after application
- Temporary itching or tingling in very sensitive skin
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis marked by persistent irritation
- Breakouts if the finished product contains comedogenic companion oils or butters
If you notice any of these issues discontinue use and seek advice from a qualified healthcare provider or dermatologist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
While the molecule contains myristic acid, which on its own can be pore clogging, the fatty acid is chemically bound to a peptide and used at very low levels. This makes the finished ingredient far less likely to build up inside pores or create the heavy film that typically triggers blemishes.
Because of this low rating Myristoyl Hexapeptide-5 is generally considered suitable for those prone to acne or breakouts.
The overall formula still matters; rich butters or occlusive waxes paired with the peptide could raise the final product’s comedogenic profile even if the peptide itself is low risk.
Summary
Myristoyl Hexapeptide-5 is a skin conditioning agent that softens the surface, smooths texture and offers a brief plumping look that can blur fine lines. The peptide portion is designed to signal skin for a fresher appearance while the attached myristic acid helps the compound slip through the skin’s lipid layer for better performance.
It sits in the niche category of peptide additives; not as ubiquitous as classics like Matrixyl yet popular enough to show up in modern serums, eye creams and sheet masks aimed at hydration and early wrinkle care.
Current data and practical use suggest it is safe for most people with a low chance of irritation or pore clogging when used in recommended amounts. As with any new skincare addition it is wise to do a small patch test first to confirm personal compatibility.