Oligopeptide-20  is a synthetic peptide composed of glutamic acid and a number of other amino acids including: alanine, arginine, cysteine, glutamic acid, leucine, lysine, methionine, proline and tyrosine.

The name describes the structure of the molecule:

• Oligopeptide indicates that the molecule is a peptide made up of a small number of amino acids. "Oligo" means few, suggesting that the peptide chain is not as long as those in polypeptides or proteins.
• -20  typically refers to a specific sequence or variant of an oligopeptide. It doesn't provide direct information about the structure but distinguishes this particular oligopeptide from others.

Description of the raw materials used in its production:

• Amino acids - Amino acids constitute the fundamental raw materials for the production of Oligopeptide-20. Amino acids can be derived from various sources, such as plant or animal proteins, and they are the building blocks of peptides and proteins.

Industrial chemical synthesis step-by-step:

• Selection of amino acids - Specific amino acids that contribute to the desired properties of Oligopeptide-20, such as skin enhancement, are selected.
• Combination of amino acids - The selected amino acids are combined in a specific order to form the amino acid sequence of Oligopeptide-20. This is accomplished through chemical reactions that bind the amino acids together.
• Purification - The mixture containing Oligopeptide-20 is purified to remove any impurities or by-products. This can be done through filtration methods, centrifugation, or other purification techniques.
• Characterization - The purified Oligopeptide-20 is characterized using various analytical techniques to confirm its identity, purity, and desired properties.
• Incorporation into cosmetic products - Oligopeptide-20 is incorporated into cosmetic formulations, such as creams, serums, or lotions for the skin, to harness its beneficial properties on the skin.
• Quality control and analysis - The final product containing Oligopeptide-20 undergoes rigorous quality control and analysis to ensure its efficacy and safety.

It appears in the form of a white powder or transparent, stable, water-soluble liquid.

What it is used for and where

Medical and Pharmaceutical

Oligopeptide-20 can be considered a peptide that mimics growth factor (1) by acting on cell proliferation to increase levels of hyaluronic acid and cell proliferation (2). This activates a wound-healing mechanism.

Cosmetics

Skin conditioning agent. It is the mainstay of topical skin treatment as it has the function of restoring, increasing or improving skin tolerance to external factors, including melanocyte tolerance. The most important function of the conditioning agent is to prevent skin dehydration, but the subject is rather complex and involves emollients and humectants that can be added in the formulation.

Used as a safe anti-ageing ingredient in personal care creams. Tends to reduce the depth of wrinkles on the face and is included in after-sun products as UV protection.

Commercial applications

Anti-Aging Ingredient in Cosmetic Products. Oligopeptide-20 is used in skin care products for its anti-aging properties, helping to reduce fine lines and wrinkles.

Hair Growth Stimulant. Used in hair care products to promote hair growth and improve hair health.

Ingredient in Skin Care Products. Used in serums, lotions, and creams to improve skin elasticity and firmness.

Skin Regenerating Agent. Used in products to promote skin regeneration and improve the appearance of scars.

Component in Acne Treatment Products. It may be used in formulations for treating acne due to its ability to regulate sebum production and reduce inflammation.

• Molecular Formula   C₂₂H₃₈N₆O₇
• Molecular Weight   498.57

References_________________________________________________________________

(1) Papagianni P, Varvaresou A, Papageorgiou S, Panderi I. Development and validation of an ion-pair RP-HPLC method for the determination of oligopeptide-20 in cosmeceuticals. J Pharm Biomed Anal. 2011 Nov 1;56(3):645-9. doi: 10.1016/j.jpba.2011.07.001.

(2) Varvaresou, A., Papageorgiou, S., Protopapa, E., & Katsarou, A. (2011). Efficacy and tolerance study of an oligopeptide with potential anti-aging activity. Journal of Cosmetics, Dermatological Sciences and Applications, 1(4), 133.