What is Oligopeptide-11?
Oligopeptide-11 is a synthetic peptide used in the cosmetic industry for its antimicrobial and skin conditioning properties. This ingredient, also known as Palmitoyl Oligopeptide-11, is a chain of 40 amino acids including alanine, asparagine, aspartic acid, glutamine, glutamic acid, glycine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, proline, serine, threonine, and valine. The specific sequence and structure of these amino acids give Oligopeptide-11 its unique properties.
The use of peptides in cosmetics is a relatively recent development, with the first peptide-based products appearing on the market in the early 2000s. Oligopeptide-11 was developed as part of this wave of innovation, with manufacturers seeking to harness the power of peptides to improve skin health and appearance.
Oligopeptide-11 is synthesized in the lab, with the specific sequence of amino acids carefully constructed to ensure the desired properties. This process involves the use of advanced biochemical techniques and precise control over the conditions of synthesis.
There are many other peptides used in cosmetics, but Oligopeptide-11 stands out for its combination of antimicrobial and skin conditioning properties. While many peptides are used for their ability to stimulate collagen production or provide other anti-aging benefits, Oligopeptide-11 is one of the few that also has antimicrobial activity. This makes it a valuable ingredient in products designed to improve skin health and protect against infection.
Oligopeptide-11 is typically used in a variety of cosmetic products, including moisturizers and serums. Its skin conditioning properties make it a valuable addition to products designed to hydrate and nourish the skin, while its antimicrobial activity can help to protect the skin from harmful bacteria and other microorganisms.
Benefits and Uses
In this section, we will delve into the officially recognized benefits and uses of Oligopeptide-11:
Antimicrobial Properties
Oligopeptide-11 has been officially recognized for its antimicrobial properties. In layman’s terms, this means it can help to kill or inhibit the growth of microorganisms on the skin. This can be particularly beneficial in cosmetic products designed for acne-prone skin, as it can help to reduce the presence of acne-causing bacteria. It’s also useful in products like creams and lotions, where it can help to prevent the product from spoiling or becoming contaminated over time.
Skin Conditioning
Another key benefit of Oligopeptide-11 is its skin conditioning properties. This means it can help to soften and smooth the skin, making it feel more comfortable and look more youthful. It achieves this by helping to maintain the skin’s natural moisture balance, preventing dryness and flakiness. This makes Oligopeptide-11 a valuable ingredient in a range of cosmetic products, from moisturizers and serums to foundations and concealers.
It’s important to note that these benefits are based on the officially recognized and defined functions of Oligopeptide-11. There may be other benefits and uses of this ingredient that go beyond these official functions. However, these additional benefits are not officially recognized and therefore fall outside the scope of this discussion.
Safety Profile
Oligopeptide-11 is not a banned or regulated ingredient in cosmetics. It is generally considered safe for use in skincare products. However, as with any cosmetic ingredient, individual reactions can vary.
While Oligopeptide-11 is known for its skin conditioning and antimicrobial properties, it is important to be aware of its potential allergenic potential. Although it is generally well-tolerated, some individuals may experience skin irritation or allergic reactions. Therefore, it is always recommended to perform a patch test before using any new product containing this ingredient.
- Potential side effect: Skin irritation
- Potential side effect: Allergic reactions
A note for women who are pregnant and/or breastfeeding – There is currently insufficient data on the safety of topically applied Oligopeptide-11 during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Therefore, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for further advice before using products containing this ingredient.
Adverse reactions to Oligopeptide-11 are not common, but it is always recommended to perform a patch test before using any new product to ensure you do not have an adverse reaction.
This ingredient analysis has been commissioned by Truth In Skincare (TiS), an independent industry regulator. The analysis was performed by a TiS-appointed industry consultant whose sources include CosIng (Cosmetic Ingredient Database – by the European Commission), the Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), The US Food & Drug Administration (FDA) as well as other various publicly available sources.
