What Is Ursoloyl Tripeptide-35?
Ursoloyl Tripeptide-35 is a lab crafted complex that joins ursolic acid, a plant compound naturally present in apple peel, basil and rosemary, with a short chain of three amino acids known as Tripeptide-35. By bonding the antioxidant power of ursolic acid to the skin friendly profile of a small peptide, chemists created a stable active that fits easily into modern skincare.
The ingredient first appeared in advanced anti aging research where brands looked for gentle alternatives to harsh retinoids. Peptide technology was booming, and pairing it with botanical molecules offered a fresh route to smoother, stronger skin. Today Ursoloyl Tripeptide-35 is produced in controlled reactors where purified ursolic acid is activated, linked to the tripeptide through safe coupling agents, then filtered and spray-dried into a fine powder ready for cosmetic labs.
You are most likely to see it in leave-on products aimed at preserving skin youthfulness such as serums, light lotions, eye creams, sheet masks and day or night moisturizers. Formulators also slip it into soothing after-sun gels and barrier repair treatments where it supports stressed skin.
Ursoloyl Tripeptide-35’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In formulas the ingredient pulls double duty that supports both immediate comfort and long term resilience
- Antioxidant: Helps neutralize free radicals created by UV light and pollution which can dull skin tone and speed up the look of aging. By keeping oxidative stress in check it supports a fresher more even complexion
- Skin Protecting: Reinforces the skin barrier so moisture stays in and irritants stay out. This defensive boost can reduce redness and make skin less reactive to everyday aggressors like wind or detergents
Who Can Use Ursoloyl Tripeptide-35
Most skin types can enjoy this peptide. Its soothing nature makes it a good choice for normal, dry, combination and sensitive skin. Oily or breakout-prone users can also try it since the molecule is lightweight and non greasy, though extremely acneic skin might prefer to test in a spot product first to be sure it does not add an extra layer of richness.
The ingredient is synthesised from plant sourced ursolic acid and a lab built tripeptide so no animal material is involved. That means it fits vegan and vegetarian routines without concern.
Current data shows no link between Ursoloyl Tripeptide-35 and hormone disruption so it is generally viewed as low risk for those who are pregnant or breastfeeding. This is not medical advice and anyone expecting or nursing should ask a doctor before starting any new cosmetic product just to stay on the safe side.
The peptide does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight. Standard daytime SPF use is still wise but no extra precautions are needed due to this ingredient alone.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Ursoloyl Tripeptide-35 differ from one person to another. The effects listed below are simply potential outcomes and are not likely for most users when the finished product has been formulated and preserved correctly.
- Mild redness or warmth shortly after application
- Itching or stinging on very reactive skin
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis for those sensitive to ursolic acid derivatives
- Breakout flare-up if paired with other rich occlusive ingredients on acne prone skin
If any of these effects appear and do not settle quickly stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
Ursoloyl Tripeptide-35 on its own is a small peptide joined to ursolic acid, giving it a balanced profile that is mostly water compatible with only a light fatty portion. It absorbs quickly, leaves little residue and is used at low percentages, so it is very unlikely to clog pores. A rating of 1 reflects this low but not entirely negligible risk since the ursolic acid fragment is oil soluble.
Suitable for acne prone or breakout prone skin in most cases.
Keep in mind that overall pore friendliness depends more on the full formula. If the peptide is delivered in a heavy cream rich in comedogenic oils the final product can still provoke congestion.
Summary
Ursoloyl Tripeptide-35 delivers two main jobs: it sweeps up free radicals as an antioxidant and it strengthens the skin barrier for added protection. The ursolic acid side tackles oxidative stress while the tripeptide side signals skin to fortify itself so together they guard against dullness, irritation and early lines.
Although not as famous as blockbuster peptides like Matrixyl it is gaining quiet traction in targeted serums and eye treatments where gentle barrier help is valued.
Current research and real-world use point to a high safety margin with only rare sensitivity reports. As with any new ingredient it is wise to patch test a product before full use to make sure your skin agrees.