What it is
Trifluoroacetyl Tripeptide-2 is a tripeptide whose terminus is capped with a trifluoroacetyl group, a modification intended to improve stability and skin affinity compared with an unmodified peptide. It is used in leave-on skincare and sunscreens as a conditioning ingredient. Like other cosmetic peptides, it is included at low concentrations as part of a formula's supporting actives.
Safety & warnings
Short synthetic peptides used at cosmetic levels are generally well tolerated and are not common sensitizers. It is not a recognized fragrance allergen.
Origin & sourcing
Synthetic. It is produced by peptide synthesis and chemical acylation rather than extracted from a natural source.
Questions everyone asks
What is the trifluoroacetyl group for?
Capping the peptide with a trifluoroacetyl group is intended to improve its stability and affinity for skin compared with an uncapped peptide.
Is it a UV filter?
No. It is a skin-conditioning peptide and does not contribute UV protection.