Tripeptide-35: 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: June 30, 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 Tripeptide-35?

Tripeptide-35 is a lab made chain of three amino acids: cysteine, glutamic acid and glycine. Chemists link these building blocks together in a precise order to create a short peptide that the skin can recognize and welcome. First developed during the early wave of peptide research in the 1990s, it gained attention when brands noticed its ability to make skin feel softer and look smoother without causing heaviness or irritation. Production starts with pure amino acids that are joined through solid phase synthesis, then purified so no extra material is left. The finished ingredient is a fine powder that dissolves well in water based formulas. You will most often spot Tripeptide-35 in moisturizers, anti aging creams, hydrating serums, sheet masks and leave on treatments that aim to improve overall skin feel.

Tripeptide-35’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

In formulas Tripeptide-35 serves one key role: skin conditioning. By helping the surface of the skin hold on to moisture and feel supple it supports a smoother, more comfortable complexion. This gentle action makes textures feel silkier, which can enhance the user experience of creams and serums while giving skin a fresher, plumper look.

Who Can Use Tripeptide-35

Tripeptide-35 is gentle enough for most skin types including dry, normal, combination and oily skin. Sensitive skin usually tolerates it well because it does not exfoliate or disturb the skin barrier, though anyone with a known allergy to peptides should stay cautious. It is non animal in origin and made fully in the lab so it fits vegan and vegetarian lifestyles.

Current research shows no specific risks linked to using Tripeptide-35 while pregnant or breastfeeding. Still, this is not medical advice; those who are expecting or nursing should have a quick chat with their doctor before adding any new skincare product just to be sure.

The peptide does not make skin more prone to sunburn and does not need special timing around sun exposure. As with any leave on ingredient, pairing it with a daily broad spectrum sunscreen keeps the routine balanced and protective.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Side effects and reactions to the topical use of Tripeptide-35 can vary from person to person. The points below list potential issues that could occur, but most users will not notice any of them when the ingredient is included at normal cosmetic levels.

  • Mild temporary redness
  • Itching or a light tingling sensation
  • Rare allergic response such as small hives or swelling
  • Contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to peptides or to other formula components
  • Eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes

If any of these effects appear and do not settle quickly stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0 / 5

Tripeptide-35 is a tiny water-soluble molecule that does not contain heavy oils, waxes or fatty acids known to block pores. It sits on the skin surface, attracts a bit of moisture then rinses or wears off without leaving a residue that could trap dead cells or sebum. For these reasons formulators consider it non-comedogenic.

This makes the ingredient generally suitable for people who are prone to acne or frequent breakouts.

Only the final product can be fully judged for pore-clogging potential, so the presence of Tripeptide-35 in a cream or serum will not outweigh the effects of richer emollients, occlusives or fragrances also in the mix.

Summary

Tripeptide-35 is used mainly as a skin-conditioning agent. By mimicking fragments of natural proteins it helps the outer layer of skin hold onto water which smooths rough patches and leaves the face feeling soft and fresh. Its straightforward mode of action fits well in moisturizers, serums and masks that aim for a light finish without greasiness.

The peptide sits in the middle of the popularity chart: notable enough to appear in modern hydrating formulas yet not a buzzword like collagen or vitamin C. Brands that prefer simple, calming ingredient lists often reach for it.

Safety data show a low risk of irritation or allergic response when used at typical cosmetic levels and it carries no known long-term hazards. Even so, skin can be unpredictable so it is smart to patch test any new product that contains Tripeptide-35 before applying it all over the face.

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