What it is
Palmitoyl Oligopeptide is a short peptide that has been attached to palmitic acid, a fatty acid added to improve the peptide's ability to associate with skin lipids. It is used in leave-on skincare as a signal-type conditioning ingredient, often paired with other palmitoyl peptides. Use levels are very low, typically a fraction of a percent.
Safety & warnings
Palmitoyl peptides are generally well tolerated in leave-on formulas at the low levels used and are not associated with significant irritation or sensitization for most users.
Origin & sourcing
Synthetic; the peptide is produced by peptide synthesis and conjugated to palmitic acid.
Questions everyone asks
Why is the peptide attached to palmitic acid?
The fatty palmitoyl chain helps the water-soluble peptide associate with the skin's lipids so it can be delivered more effectively in a formula.
Is it a natural ingredient?
No. It is a synthetic peptide conjugate made by peptide synthesis.