What Is R-Clostridium Histolyticum Collagenase Rh-Oligopeptide-60?
R-Clostridium Histolyticum Collagenase Rh-Oligopeptide-60 is a lab made peptide that blends parts of a collagen-breaking enzyme from the bacterium Clostridium histolyticum with a short human-derived peptide known as Rh-Oligopeptide-60. Scientists join the two gene sequences, insert the fused gene into harmless E. coli, then let the bacteria ferment and produce the new single-chain peptide. After purification the result is a 936-amino-acid ingredient made only of the standard building blocks found in skin.
The cosmetic world became interested in this peptide once researchers saw how gently it could nudge the skin’s own renewal process without the harshness of stronger enzymes. Its debut in skin care is recent, helped by advances in recombinant technology that make production consistent and vegan friendly. You will mainly spot it in leave-on anti-aging creams, firming serums, sheet masks and targeted treatments that promise smoother texture or better elasticity.
R-Clostridium Histolyticum Collagenase Rh-Oligopeptide-60’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient is prized in formulas because it acts as a skin-conditioning agent. By lightly loosening tired surface proteins it helps fresh, softer skin come forward. In daily use products this can translate into a more even tone, improved feel and a healthier glow.
Who Can Use R-Clostridium Histolyticum Collagenase Rh-Oligopeptide-60
This peptide is generally gentle enough for most skin types. Normal, dry, oily and combination complexions can all benefit from its conditioning action. Sensitive skin users often tolerate it well thanks to its mild nature, though anyone prone to irritation from enzymes should start slowly and watch for redness. Because it is not oily or waxy it seldom clogs pores so acne-prone skin can usually use it without extra breakouts.
The ingredient is produced through fermentation in E. coli with no animal-derived inputs, which makes it suitable for vegans and vegetarians.
There is no specific research showing harm to pregnant or breastfeeding women when the peptide is used topically, yet safety data are limited. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should check with a doctor before adding new skincare products.
R-Clostridium Histolyticum Collagenase Rh-Oligopeptide-60 does not increase photosensitivity, so it will not make skin more vulnerable to sunburn. Daily sunscreen is still wise for overall skin health. The peptide also plays well with most other actives though using it together with strong acids or scrubs may heighten exfoliation and cause dryness in some users.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to the topical use of R-Clostridium Histolyticum Collagenase Rh-Oligopeptide-60 vary from person to person. The points below outline potential side effects yet they are uncommon for most users when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly.
- Mild stinging or tingling during the first few applications
- Temporary redness or warmth, especially on sensitive skin
- Dryness or tightness if layered with other exfoliating products
- Allergic contact dermatitis presenting as rash or itching
- Rare swelling or puffy patches indicating an intolerance
If any of these reactions occur stop using the product and seek guidance from a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
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R-Clostridium Histolyticum Collagenase Rh-Oligopeptide-60 is a large water-soluble protein that stays on the surface of skin and has no oily or waxy residues that could block pores. Because it is used at very low concentrations and breaks down naturally over time, the risk of buildup inside follicles is virtually nil.
Acne-prone users can confidently use this ingredient since it is considered non-comedogenic.
If a formula pairs the peptide with heavier butters or occlusive silicones those co-ingredients, not the peptide itself, may influence clogging potential so always look at the full ingredient list.
Summary
R-Clostridium Histolyticum Collagenase Rh-Oligopeptide-60 is a lab-engineered peptide that conditions skin by gently loosening dead surface proteins which in turn helps reveal smoother texture and a fresher-looking tone. Its action is mild because the large molecule cannot dive deeply into living layers yet it is active enough to support the skin’s natural renewal cycle.
Only a handful of niche anti-aging and firming products currently feature this peptide, mostly from innovative indie brands testing biotech actives. As manufacturing costs drop its presence will likely grow.
Topical safety data show a low risk of irritation for most users. Still, everyone’s skin is unique so perform a patch test when trying any new product that contains this ingredient just to stay on the safe side.