Pyroglutamyl Dipeptide-30 Amide: 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
Share:
Inside this article:

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 Pyroglutamyl Dipeptide-30 Amide?

Pyroglutamyl Dipeptide-30 Amide is a lab made dipeptide that combines two small building blocks of protein: pyroglutamic acid and histidine, finished off with an amide group. You might also see it listed as L-Prolinamide, 5-oxo-L-prolyl-L-histidyl-, Throtropin Releasing Factor, TRF or TRH on an ingredient list. Scientists first explored this peptide while studying skin biology, then adapted it for beauty formulas when they noticed its skin nurturing ability. Because the molecule does not come in large amounts from natural sources, manufacturers create it through controlled peptide synthesis. This process strings the amino acids together in a precise order, purifies the result, then stabilizes it so it stays effective in creams and serums.

Brands add Pyroglutamyl Dipeptide-30 Amide to leave-on and rinse-off products that focus on comfort and youthful look. You are most likely to find it in anti aging serums, rich moisturizers, eye creams, sheet masks and recovery balms aimed at stressed or sensitive skin.

Pyroglutamyl Dipeptide-30 Amide’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

In skin care, this peptide plays one main role that brings several visible perks.

As a skin conditioning agent, Pyroglutamyl Dipeptide-30 Amide helps the outer layer hold on to water and feel softer. By supporting the skin’s own moisture balance it can reduce the look of fine lines caused by dryness, give a smoother touch and leave the complexion looking fresh and rested.

Who Can Use Pyroglutamyl Dipeptide-30 Amide

This peptide is gentle enough for nearly every skin type. Dry and mature complexions may see the most benefit thanks to its water-binding talent yet normal, oily and combination skin can also use it without feeling greasy or heavy. It is not known to trigger excess oil or clog pores so acne-prone users generally tolerate it well. No specific skin type is considered unsuitable unless you have a personal sensitivity to peptides.

Because the compound is produced entirely through laboratory synthesis and contains no animal-derived components it is suitable for both vegans and vegetarians.

Current data shows no issues for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when the ingredient is applied topically at the low percentages found in cosmetics. This is not medical advice and anyone expecting or nursing should run all skincare choices past a healthcare professional just to be safe.

Pyroglutamyl Dipeptide-30 Amide does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight so it is not classified as photosensitising. Standard daytime sun protection is still recommended for overall skin health.

The peptide plays well with most common actives including niacinamide, hyaluronic acid and ceramides so layering it into an existing routine is usually straightforward.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Reactions to topical Pyroglutamyl Dipeptide-30 Amide vary from person to person. The points below outline potential side effects, but they are uncommon when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly.

  • Mild redness or warmth – can appear if the skin barrier is already compromised
  • Temporary itching – usually subsides quickly once the product is removed
  • Stinging on very sensitive skin – more likely if combined with other strong actives in the same routine
  • Allergic contact dermatitis – rare, marked by persistent rash or swelling that needs medical attention

If any of these reactions occur stop using the product and seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0 out of 5

Pyroglutamyl Dipeptide-30 Amide is a small, water-soluble peptide that does not leave an oily film or sit heavily on the skin, so it has no tendency to block pores. Laboratory studies and real-world use have not linked it to the formation of comedones or breakouts. For these reasons it earns the lowest possible score on the comedogenic scale.

This makes the ingredient suitable for people who are prone to acne or congestion.

Because it is water-based formulators often pair it with lightweight gel or serum textures, which further lowers any pore-clogging risk.

Summary

Pyroglutamyl Dipeptide-30 Amide conditions the skin by binding water to the outer layer, smoothing rough patches and reducing the look of dryness-related fine lines. It performs these tasks thanks to its dipeptide structure, which attracts and holds moisture while remaining light and non-occlusive.

The peptide is still a niche addition rather than a blockbuster name, so you will mainly spot it in specialized anti aging or recovery products instead of on every store shelf. Even so, brands that focus on gentle hydration value its performance.

Current research and usage reports point to a high margin of safety with only rare irritation cases. As with any new cosmetic ingredient it is wise to patch test a product before full use to confirm your personal tolerance.

Was this article helpful?
More from Glooshi:
ADVERTISEMENT
Get all our top headlines in beauty.
Delivered right to your inbox each week. Zero spam, all goodness, opt-out at anytime.
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Get the latest beauty news, top product recommendations & brand-exclusive discount codes direct to your inbox.
Send good feedback:

All feedback is greatly appreciated, anonymous, and will be used to improve the quality of our articles.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Send bad feedback:

All feedback is greatly appreciated, anonymous, and will be used to improve the quality of our articles.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Search