Understanding Oligopeptides in Skin and Hair Care

Oligopeptides are gaining popularity in the beauty industry, commonly found in products from brands like K18 and SkinMedica due to their multi-benefit properties. Although they might be unfamiliar to the general public, they’re well-known among skincare specialists.

Featured Experts

• Dr. Joel Schlessinger & Dr. Daniel Schlessinger: Board-certified dermatologists from Omaha, NE.
• Kelly Dobos: Cosmetic chemist.
• James Bartholomeusz: Inventor and co-founder of KeraFactor.
• Katie Brenner: Hairstylist and Global Artistic Director of OliG.

What are Oligopeptides?

Peptides consist of amino acid chains acting as messengers in the skin to promote collagen production, healing, and inflammation reduction. The prefix of a peptide indicates chain length:

• Dipeptide: Two amino acids.
• Tripeptide: Three amino acids.
• Oligopeptides: Up to 20 amino acids.
• Polypeptides: More than 20 amino acids.

Oligopeptides serve as cellular messengers that enhance skin functions without causing irritation, mimicking naturally occurring peptides in the body.

Benefits in Skin Care

Oligopeptides provide several benefits:

• Stimulate collagen and elastin production, reducing fine lines and wrinkles.
• Support the skin’s repair processes and enhance hydration by strengthening the skin barrier.
• Offer anti-inflammatory properties for sensitive skin, making them popular in professional-grade products.

Benefits in Hair Care

Oligopeptides strengthen hair by penetrating the hair shaft, reducing breakage, and enhancing elasticity. They protect against environmental damage and heat styling, support scalp health, improve circulation, and potentially encourage hair growth. They assist in keratin secretion, reinforcing hair and rebuilding scalp health.

Unlike in skin, hair follicles offer a direct path for peptides, making them effective in addressing thinning and damage from within. They also enhance the outer appearance of hair, giving it a healthier, shinier look.