What Is S-Cutibacterium Acnes Oligopeptide-2?
S-Cutibacterium Acnes Oligopeptide-2 is a lab-made mini protein that mimics a small part of a natural protein found in the skin-dwelling bacterium Cutibacterium acnes. The peptide contains 13 amino acids linked in a single chain, far smaller than the parent bacterial protein that holds up to 320 amino acids. Because it is produced synthetically rather than taken from bacteria, the ingredient is highly purified and free of unwanted by-products.
Chemists first looked to skin-friendly bacteria for inspiration in the early 2010s, hoping to borrow their soothing tricks without using live microbes. Advances in solid-phase peptide synthesis made it possible to copy just the most useful fragment of the bacterial protein. Today manufacturers build the chain step by step on a resin, then detach and purify it through filtration and chromatography before drying it into a fine powder.
The finished peptide dissolves easily in water so formulators can add it to many cosmetic bases. You will most often see it in lightweight serums, sheet masks, gel moisturizers, leave-on spot treatments and anti-aging lotions designed for sensitive or breakout-prone skin.
S-Cutibacterium Acnes Oligopeptide-2’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This peptide is valued for a single key role in skin care formulas.
Skin conditioning: S-Cutibacterium Acnes Oligopeptide-2 helps keep the skin surface smooth soft and balanced. By supporting a healthy moisture barrier it can reduce the look of dryness or irritation making the complexion appear calmer and more even.
Who Can Use S-Cutibacterium Acnes Oligopeptide-2
S-Cutibacterium Acnes Oligopeptide-2 is generally well suited for all skin types, including oily acne-prone skin, dry or mature skin and even easily irritated sensitive skin. Its lightweight water-soluble profile lets it sit comfortably without clogging pores or leaving a greasy film. There are no known skin types that must avoid it unless an individual has a specific allergy to peptides or to another ingredient in the finished formula.
The peptide is made entirely by chemical synthesis, with no animal-derived components, so vegans and vegetarians can use it without concern over animal sourcing or by-products.
Pregnant or breastfeeding women have no special warnings tied to this ingredient because it stays on the surface and has negligible absorption. Still, this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should confirm any new skincare product with a qualified doctor before use just to be safe.
The peptide does not increase photosensitivity, so it will not make skin more reactive to sunlight. Standard daytime sun protection is still recommended, but no extra precautions are needed specifically because of this ingredient.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical S-Cutibacterium Acnes Oligopeptide-2 vary from person to person. The following list covers potential side effects only; most users will not experience any of them when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly.
- Temporary redness or warmth
- Mild stinging or tingling on application
- Localized itching
- Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to peptides or preservatives used alongside the peptide
- Reduced efficacy or instability if layered immediately with very strong acids or bases, although this usually affects performance rather than safety
If any unusual irritation or discomfort occurs stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional or dermatologist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0/5 (non-comedogenic). S-Cutibacterium Acnes Oligopeptide-2 is a tiny water-based peptide that does not add oil, occlusive film or nutrients for pore-clogging bacteria so it leaves follicles clear.
Well suited for acne-prone skin.
Only if paired with heavy oils or waxes in the same formula could overall pore-blocking potential rise, but the peptide itself stays neutral.
Summary
S-Cutibacterium Acnes Oligopeptide-2 is a 13-amino-acid mimic of a friendly bacterial protein that conditions skin by reinforcing the moisture barrier, calming visible redness and keeping the surface smooth. Its water solubility means it slides into light serums, gels and masks without weight or shine.
The peptide is still a niche ingredient compared with staples like niacinamide or hyaluronic acid but its gentle profile is drawing interest, especially in products for sensitive or breakout-prone skin.
Overall safety is considered high with minimal irritation risk and no comedogenicity, yet a quick patch test is always a smart step when trying any new product.