What Is Oligopeptide-70?
Oligopeptide-70 is a lab made chain of 11 amino acids built from alanine, cysteine, glycine, histidine, lysine, proline and serine. Because it is synthetic the formula can be kept highly pure and consistent, which is important for skin care products. The peptide emerged from research into small protein fragments that could shield skin from free radical damage and metal-induced stress. Once studies showed it could do both, formulators began adding it to anti-aging lines in the late 2000s.
Manufacturing relies on solid-phase peptide synthesis, where each amino acid is added one at a time to a resin bead. After the full sequence is built the peptide is cleaved off, purified with filtration and chromatography then dried into a fine powder ready for cosmetic use.
You will most often spot Oligopeptide-70 in serums, sheet masks, eye creams, daily moisturizers and leave-on treatments designed to brighten tired looking skin and reinforce its natural defense barrier.
Oligopeptide-70’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This peptide brings several helpful actions to a skin care formula
- Antioxidant: Helps neutralize free radicals created by pollution and UV exposure which can dull the complexion and lead to early lines
- Chelating: Binds stray metal ions such as iron and copper that are present in tap water or product containers reducing the chance those metals will trigger oxidative stress or spoil the formula
- Skin protecting: Forms a light supportive film on the surface that reinforces the skin barrier so it loses less moisture and becomes less reactive to everyday irritants
Who Can Use Oligopeptide-70
Thanks to its lightweight texture and gentle nature, Oligopeptide-70 generally suits all skin types including oily, dry, combination and sensitive skin. It does not clog pores or leave a greasy film so acne-prone users tend to tolerate it well. There are no known skin concerns that make the peptide inherently unsuitable, though anyone with a proven allergy to peptides should obviously steer clear.
The ingredient is produced entirely through laboratory synthesis with no animal-derived components or by-products, making it appropriate for both vegans and vegetarians.
Current research has not flagged any specific risks for pregnant or breastfeeding women when Oligopeptide-70 is applied to the skin. Even so this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should run the full ingredient list of any new product past a qualified healthcare provider before use.
Oligopeptide-70 does not increase photosensitivity so it can be used morning or night without elevating the chance of sunburn. Standard daytime sunscreen use is still recommended as part of a well-rounded routine.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Individual responses to topical Oligopeptide-70 can differ. The points below outline potential side effects, though most people will not experience them when using a well-formulated product.
- Mild redness or warmth
- Transient tingling or stinging
- Localised itching
- Contact dermatitis in those with peptide sensitivities
- Interaction with other active ingredients leading to unexpected irritation
If any persistent or worsening reaction occurs stop using the product and seek guidance from a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 / 5 (non-comedogenic)
Oligopeptide-70 is a small, water-soluble peptide that does not contain heavy oils, waxes or fatty acids that can block pores. Its particles remain dissolved in the water phase of a formula and do not form occlusive layers on the skin, which keeps the risk of trapped sebum and bacteria low. For these reasons it earns the lowest possible comedogenic score.
This makes the ingredient well suited to people prone to acne and breakouts. As always the overall formula matters, so pore-clogging risk should be assessed on the complete product, not the peptide alone.
Because Oligopeptide-70 can help chelate metals and calm oxidation it may even be a helpful addition to routines aimed at soothing inflamed, blemish-prone skin.
Summary
Oligopeptide-70 works as an antioxidant, chelating agent and skin protecting film former. Its sequence of 11 amino acids scavenges free radicals, binds excess metal ions before they can spark oxidative stress and lays down a whisper-thin shield that helps the skin hold moisture and fend off everyday irritants.
While not a blockbuster name like vitamin C or retinol, the peptide enjoys steady use in modern serums, sheet masks and eye creams aimed at brightening and barrier support. Formulators appreciate its purity, stability and compatibility with most actives which means it is quietly showing up in more mid to high-end products every year.
Safety data to date is reassuring; adverse reactions are rare, the molecule is non-comedogenic and it does not heighten sun sensitivity. Still, skin is personal so a quick patch test is wise whenever adding a new product that contains Oligopeptide-70.