Ingredient review
Myristoyl Dipeptide-13
INCI: Myristoyl Dipeptide-13
A synthetic peptide that may help improve skin firmness and reduce fine lines, but more human studies are needed to confirm its effectiveness.
In plain English
Myristoyl Dipeptide-13 is a lab-made peptide (a small chain of amino acids) that is added to skincare products to help support the skin's structure. It works by signaling skin cells to produce more collagen and other supportive proteins, which can make the skin feel firmer and look smoother over time. Think of it as a tiny messenger that tells your skin to keep itself strong and bouncy.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Potentially useful with some tradeoffs
The evidence base is useful, but some claims depend heavily on the formula.
Risk flags are low for most users, though the finished product can still irritate.
- Source
- synthetic
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
Myristoyl Dipeptide-13 is generally a lower-concern ingredient when the full formula suits your skin.
Plain-English read
Treat this as a practical screening step before you compare products that contain this ingredient.
- Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging Myristoyl Dipeptide-13.
- Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
- Step 3If a product stings, breaks you out, or worsens irritation, judge the finished formula and stop using it even if the ingredient scores well.
Score terms in plain English
Irritation risk
lowLess likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.
Clogging risk
lowLess likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.
Evidence level
moderateThere is useful support, but formula details and claim strength still matter.
What it is
Myristoyl Dipeptide-13 is a synthetic peptide composed of two amino acids (a dipeptide) attached to a myristoyl fatty acid chain. The fatty acid helps the peptide penetrate the skin more easily. It belongs to a class of ingredients known as matrikines, which are peptides that mimic fragments of collagen and stimulate skin repair.
How it works
When applied to the skin, Myristoyl Dipeptide-13 is thought to bind to specific receptors on skin cells (fibroblasts) and trigger a signaling cascade that increases the production of collagen, elastin, and other extracellular matrix components. This helps reinforce the skin's support structure, leading to improved firmness and a reduction in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles over time.
Pros
Gentle anti-aging support
Myristoyl Dipeptide-13 is generally well-tolerated and can be a good option for those with sensitive skin who want to support collagen production without irritation.
Targeted firming action
By mimicking natural collagen fragments, this peptide specifically encourages the skin to reinforce its structure, which can lead to a visibly firmer appearance over weeks of consistent use.
Cons and cautions
Limited human evidence
While lab studies show promise, there are fewer published human clinical trials for Myristoyl Dipeptide-13 compared to more established peptides, so the real-world results may vary.
Results require patience
Peptides work slowly by signaling skin cells, so noticeable improvements in firmness and wrinkles typically take several weeks to months of daily use, and results are subtle.
Best for
- Adults looking to support skin firmness and reduce early signs of aging
- Those who tolerate peptides well and want a gentle anti-aging option
Use caution if
- Individuals with known sensitivity or allergy to peptides or fatty acids
Usage tips
Safety summary
Myristoyl Dipeptide-13 is considered safe for topical cosmetic use at typical concentrations. It has a low irritation and comedogenic risk, making it suitable for most skin types. As with any new ingredient, a patch test is recommended for those with very sensitive skin.
Research notes
Research on Myristoyl Dipeptide-13 is primarily based on in vitro (lab) studies showing collagen-stimulating activity. Human clinical data is limited but suggests potential benefits for skin firmness and wrinkle reduction. More robust, peer-reviewed human trials are needed to fully establish its efficacy.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Typically used at 0.5% to 2% in leave-on products
- Regulatory status
- Approved for cosmetic use in the EU, US, and many other regions as a skin conditioning agent. No specific restrictions beyond general cosmetic safety regulations.
- Common uses
- Anti-aging serums, Firming creams, Eye treatments
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic peptide, it is produced through chemical synthesis, which has a lower environmental footprint compared to some animal-derived ingredients. However, its biodegradability is not well documented.
Good to know
- Myristoyl Dipeptide-13 is often found in anti-aging serums and eye creams, sometimes blended with other peptides for a multi-targeted approach.
- The myristoyl group (a fatty acid) helps the peptide penetrate the skin's outer layer more effectively than some other peptides.
Common questions
What is Myristoyl Dipeptide-13 in beauty products?
Myristoyl Dipeptide-13 is a lab-made peptide (a small chain of amino acids) that is added to skincare products to help support the skin's structure. It works by signaling skin cells to produce more collagen and other supportive proteins, which can make the skin feel firmer and look smoother over time. Think of it as a tiny messenger that tells your skin to keep itself strong and bouncy.
What does Myristoyl Dipeptide-13 do in a beauty product?
When applied to the skin, Myristoyl Dipeptide-13 is thought to bind to specific receptors on skin cells (fibroblasts) and trigger a signaling cascade that increases the production of collagen, elastin, and other extracellular matrix components. This helps reinforce the skin's support structure, leading to improved firmness and a reduction in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles over time.
Is Myristoyl Dipeptide-13 safe for most people?
Myristoyl Dipeptide-13 is considered safe for topical cosmetic use at typical concentrations. It has a low irritation and comedogenic risk, making it suitable for most skin types. As with any new ingredient, a patch test is recommended for those with very sensitive skin.
Who should be careful with Myristoyl Dipeptide-13?
Individuals with known sensitivity or allergy to peptides or fatty acids
Research sources
Ingredient reviews are educational and are not medical advice. Patch test new products and ask a licensed clinician about persistent irritation, allergies, pregnancy-specific questions, or diagnosed skin conditions.