Pentapeptide-61: What Is It, Cosmetic Uses, Benefits & Side Effects

Curious about this ingredient? In this article we're explaining exactly what it is and why it's used within cosmetic formulations.
Updated on: July 1, 2025
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We verify all information on this page using publicly available nomenclature standards from The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), the European Commission's CosIng database and documentation provided directly by ingredient manufacturers. Our analysis is based on technical data from these sources to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Pentapeptide-61?

Pentapeptide-61 is a lab made chain of five amino acids built from alanine, leucine, lysine and phenylalanine. Because it is created in a controlled setting, it is classed as a synthetic peptide rather than one taken from plants or animals. The peptide was first explored in the early 2000s when cosmetic chemists began looking for small protein fragments that could guard the skin and improve moisture levels. It is produced through solid phase peptide synthesis, a step by step method that links each amino acid to the next on a resin base, then frees the finished chain for purification. Thanks to its stability and skin friendly size, Pentapeptide-61 is now blended into lightweight serums, daily moisturizers, sheet masks, anti aging creams and targeted spot treatments.

Pentapeptide-61’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

Formulators turn to Pentapeptide-61 because it can tackle several common skin care goals at once.

  • Antimicrobial: Helps keep the product itself fresh by discouraging the growth of unwanted microbes which in turn supports a cleaner environment on the skin
  • Humectant: Draws water from the air and deeper skin layers to the surface, giving skin a plumper more hydrated look and feel
  • Skin Conditioning: Smooths and softens rough patches so skin feels silky after application
  • Skin Protecting: Forms a light veil that shields the skin from everyday stressors such as pollution and dryness, helping maintain a healthy barrier

Who Can Use Pentapeptide-61

Pentapeptide-61 is gentle enough for most skin types including dry, oily, combination, mature and even sensitive skin because it is lightweight and free from common irritants such as fragrance or essential oils. Those with extremely reactive skin should still proceed cautiously as any peptide can, in rare cases, provoke irritation. The ingredient is entirely vegan and vegetarian friendly because it is made synthetically in a lab without using animal by-products or testing. Current research shows no specific risks for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, yet this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should run all skincare products past a doctor to be safe. Pentapeptide-61 does not cause photosensitivity so it can be applied both morning and night, though daily sunscreen is always recommended for overall skin health. It also layers well with most other actives, making it versatile in multi-step routines.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Side effects from topical Pentapeptide-61 vary from person to person. The points below outline potential reactions, but they are uncommon and most users experience none of them when the ingredient is properly formulated and used as directed.

  • Mild redness or warmth at the application site
  • Temporary itching or tingling
  • Localised rash or contact dermatitis in those allergic to peptides
  • Rare clogged pores or breakouts in individuals highly prone to acne
  • Stinging if applied to broken or freshly exfoliated skin
  • Eye irritation if the product migrates too close to the lash line

If any negative effect occurs stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional or dermatologist

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0–1 (essentially non comedogenic)

Pentapeptide-61 is water soluble, lightweight and free of heavy oils or waxes that can block pores so it earns a very low score on the comedogenic scale. It sits on the skin as a thin hydrating film then absorbs without leaving residue, which keeps follicles clear and undisturbed. Because the molecule is a small peptide that mixes easily into watery or gel textures it does not encourage the buildup of sebum or dead cells.

That means the ingredient is generally suitable for acne-prone and breakout-prone skin.

Its low use level in finished formulas (usually below 2 %) further reduces any chance of congestion.

Summary

Pentapeptide-61 is a lab crafted chain of five amino acids that works as an antimicrobial, humectant, skin conditioning and skin protecting agent. It pulls moisture toward the surface for instant plumping, smooths rough patches by softening the outer layer, helps ward off trouble-making microbes to keep both the product and skin fresher and lays down a sheer shield that reinforces the natural barrier.

While it is not a household name like hyaluronic acid or retinol, the peptide is gaining quiet popularity in niche serums and moisturizers because formulators appreciate its multitasking nature and high stability.

Current data shows Pentapeptide-61 is well tolerated with only rare reports of mild irritation. As with any new skincare ingredient it is smart to patch test a product first to be sure your skin agrees with it before applying to the entire face.

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