What Is Oligopeptide-114?
Oligopeptide-114 is a lab made chain of 11 amino acids built from alanine, cysteine, glutamine, glycine, histidine, serine and threonine. Because it is synthetic scientists can fine tune its purity and stability so it stays active once blended into a cream or serum. The peptide is produced through solid phase peptide synthesis, a step by step process that links each amino acid in a set order then purifies the finished strand. Peptides gained popularity in skin care in the early 2000s as gentler alternatives to retinoids and acids, and Oligopeptide-114 is one of the newer additions created to support the skin’s barrier and appearance. You will most often spot it in lightweight anti-aging serums, hydrating moisturizers, leave-on masks, eye creams and post-treatment soothing gels.
Oligopeptide-114’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Oligopeptide-114 is classified as a skin-conditioning ingredient, meaning its main job is to help the skin feel softer and look healthier. In a formula it supports the skin’s natural proteins, boosts moisture retention and leaves the surface smoother and more supple.
Who Can Use Oligopeptide-114
Because Oligopeptide-114 is lightweight and non-occlusive it suits most skin types including oily, combination, normal and dry. Sensitive skin users often tolerate peptides better than strong acids or retinoids, though anyone with a history of peptide allergies should proceed with caution.
The peptide is made entirely in a lab from individual amino acids so it contains no animal-derived material. This makes it appropriate for both vegans and vegetarians.
No studies flag Oligopeptide-114 as unsafe for pregnant or breastfeeding women when applied topically at cosmetic levels, yet research on this specific peptide in those groups is limited. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should ask a healthcare professional before adding new skincare products just to be safe.
Oligopeptide-114 does not increase photosensitivity, so there is no special sun-related precaution beyond the usual daily sunscreen recommendation.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Oligopeptide-114 differ from person to person. The points below list potential but uncommon side effects. When a product is formulated and stored correctly most users will not notice any of these issues.
- Mild redness or warmth shortly after application
- Transient stinging on very compromised or freshly exfoliated skin
- Localised itching or tightness
- Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to one of the amino acids or a preservative in the finished product
- Pimple-like bumps if the overall formula is too rich for oily or acne-prone skin
If any irritation or other negative effect appears stop using the product and consult a qualified healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0–1
Oligopeptide-114 is a small water-soluble molecule that does not leave a heavy film on the skin and contains no oily or waxy components that could clog pores. Most finished formulas that feature this peptide are lightweight serums or gels, further lowering the risk of congestion. For these reasons it sits at the very low end of the comedogenic scale.
Sensitive or acne-prone users can generally use products with Oligopeptide-114 without seeing extra breakouts, provided the rest of the formula is also non-comedogenic.
Only in unusually rich creams where butters or heavy silicones dominate could pore blockage become a concern, and in that case the texture of the full product, not the peptide itself, would be the culprit.
Summary
Oligopeptide-114 is a lab crafted chain of 11 amino acids that conditions skin by supporting its natural proteins, improving moisture retention and leaving the surface smoother. Its compact size allows it to sit comfortably on the skin, delivering a supple feel without heaviness.
Peptide technology has been popular since the early 2000s but Oligopeptide-114 is still a niche player found mostly in forward-thinking anti-aging serums and post-procedure soothers. Brands appreciate its stability and vegan profile, while users enjoy a gentler alternative to stronger actives.
The ingredient shows a strong safety profile in topical use, with low risk of irritation or pore blockage. As with any new skincare step it is wise to carry out a patch test first to make sure your skin agrees with the full formula.