What Is Oligopeptide-147?
Oligopeptide-147 is a lab-made chain of 15 amino acids, built from familiar building blocks like arginine, serine and tyrosine. Unlike peptides that come from plants or animals this one is produced entirely through solid-phase peptide synthesis, a step-by-step method that strings each amino acid together in a precise order. The result is a small yet stable molecule that blends easily into water-based cosmetic formulas.
Peptide research took off in the early 2000s when brands began searching for gentler options to support skin firmness and hydration. Scientists noticed that certain short peptides could signal the skin to look and feel smoother, leading to the creation of specialized sequences such as Oligopeptide-147. Since then it has appeared in a variety of leave-on products, especially lightweight serums, daily moisturizers, sheet masks, eye creams and after-sun gels where quick absorption is valued.
Oligopeptide-147’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In skincare Oligopeptide-147 serves one core purpose: skin conditioning. By helping the surface of the skin feel softer and look more even it can enhance the overall sensory experience of a product, leaving the complexion with a supple finish that many users associate with healthy skin.
Who Can Use Oligopeptide-147
Because it is lightweight, water-soluble and non-occlusive, Oligopeptide-147 is generally suitable for dry, normal, combination, oily and even sensitive skin types. It lacks oils, waxes or pore-clogging agents, so acne-prone users usually tolerate it well. People with highly reactive or compromised skin barriers should still start slowly, as any new peptide could provoke irritation in rare cases.
The peptide is made entirely through laboratory synthesis without animal-derived materials, making it appropriate for both vegans and vegetarians.
No data suggest that Oligopeptide-147 poses specific risks to women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. That said this is not medical advice; anyone expecting or nursing should review all skincare products with a qualified healthcare professional to be safe.
Oligopeptide-147 does not increase photosensitivity, so it can be used day or night. Normal sun protection practices still apply.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Oligopeptide-147 vary from person to person. The issues listed below are possible but uncommon when the ingredient is included at standard cosmetic levels in a well-formulated product.
- Mild redness or warmth at the application site
- Temporary stinging or tingling, especially on very dry or freshly exfoliated skin
- Itchiness or small hives indicating a sensitivity or allergic response
- Watery eyes or irritation if the product migrates too close to the eye area
- Exacerbation of existing dermatitis if applied to broken or inflamed skin
If any of these reactions occur, discontinue use and seek advice from a healthcare professional or dermatologist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 (non-comedogenic)
Oligopeptide-147 is a small, water-soluble peptide that contains no oils, waxes or heavy emollients, meaning it does not create a film that can trap sebum or dead cells inside pores. Because it rinses cleanly from the skin and is used at very low concentrations, it receives a solid zero on the comedogenic scale. This makes it generally suitable for people who are prone to acne or frequent breakouts.
Keep in mind that a formula’s overall pore-clogging potential depends on every ingredient, so pairing this peptide with rich butters, silicones or occlusive oils can raise a finished product’s comedogenicity even if the peptide itself scores zero.
Summary
Oligopeptide-147 is a lab-designed 15-amino-acid chain used mainly for skin conditioning. By mimicking naturally occurring skin peptides it can signal the surface to feel softer and look smoother, leaving a more refined finish without heaviness. It blends easily into serums, moisturizers and masks thanks to its water solubility and stability.
While not yet a household name like retinol or hyaluronic acid, this peptide is gaining quiet traction among formulators who want gentle complexion boosters that layer well with other actives. Its safety profile is strong, with low irritation risk and no evidence of comedogenicity or hormonal effects, so most skin types can enjoy it with confidence.
As with any new skincare ingredient it is smart to perform a quick patch test when trying a product that contains Oligopeptide-147, especially if you have very sensitive or reactive skin.