What Is Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17?
Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17 is a small chain of five amino acids (a pentapeptide) that has been linked to myristic acid, a fatty acid commonly found in nutmeg butter and coconut oil. Uniting the peptide with the fatty acid gives the molecule a lipid tail that helps it mingle with skin’s natural oils. Peptide research picked up steam in the late 1990s as labs looked for gentler ways to support skin without heavy waxes or strong actives. Chemists discovered that attaching a fatty acid to certain peptides improved their ability to reach the skin’s surface layers, which is how Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17 found its place in cosmetic labs.
Manufacturing starts with the lab synthesis of the precise five-amino-acid sequence. Once the peptide chain is built, it reacts with myristic acid to form a stable bond, creating a single hybrid ingredient. The finished raw material is then blended into water-based or oil-based formulas during the cool-down phase so the peptide remains intact.
Thanks to its skin-friendly profile, you are most likely to spot Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17 in lash and brow serums, eye creams, lightweight facial moisturizers and targeted anti-aging treatments.
Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient is valued for one main role in skincare products:
Skin conditioning: By helping the surface of the skin and hair feel softer and smoother, Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17 can improve the overall texture of lashes, brows and delicate facial areas. Formulators turn to it when they want a lightweight conditioning agent that supports a healthy appearance without adding heavy oils or waxes.
Who Can Use Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17
Because it is a gentle peptide linked to a naturally occurring fatty acid, Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17 suits most skin types including dry, normal, combination and oily. Sensitive skin users generally tolerate it well thanks to its mild nature, though anyone with a known peptide sensitivity should proceed cautiously.
The ingredient is synthesized in a lab without animal by-products so it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians.
No specific data indicate risks for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the ingredient is applied topically at the tiny concentrations found in over-the-counter cosmetics. This is not medical advice; anyone who is pregnant or nursing should ask a healthcare professional before starting a new product to be extra safe.
Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17 does not make skin more reactive to sunlight and does not cause photosensitivity. It also plays well with most common skincare actives such as niacinamide, hyaluronic acid and gentle plant oils.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17 vary from person to person. The effects listed below are possible but unlikely for the average user when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly.
- Mild redness or warmth
- Temporary stinging around the eye area if product migrates into the eyes
- Itchiness or slight swelling in individuals allergic to peptides
- Contact dermatitis in rare cases where the user is sensitive to either the peptide or other ingredients in the formula
If you experience any of these effects stop using the product and consult a medical professional if symptoms persist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 out of 5
Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17 is used at very low levels, has a lightweight molecular size and carries only a short fatty acid chain, all of which make it unlikely to block pores. It sits on the skin’s surface to condition rather than forming an occlusive film, so it poses minimal risk for congestion.
Suitable for acne prone or breakout prone skin.
Because formulas differ, the overall pore clogging potential of a finished product depends on the complete ingredient list not just the peptide itself.
Summary
Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17 is a lab made blend of a five amino acid peptide and myristic acid that works primarily as a skin conditioning agent, leaving skin lashes and brows feeling softer and looking healthier. The fatty acid tail helps the peptide mix with skin’s natural oils so it can do its job efficiently.
While not a household name, it is gaining popularity in niche products like lash serums eye creams and lightweight moisturizers thanks to its gentle profile and compatibility with most actives.
Overall safety data show a low risk of irritation or sensitization when used as directed, making it a dependable choice for most skin types. As with any new cosmetic ingredient it is wise to perform a patch test before full use to make sure your skin agrees with it.