Oligopeptide-68 Beta (Oligopeptide-68)
1. Basic Information
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INCI Name: Oligopeptide-68
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CAS No.: 1206525-47-4
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Molecular Formula: C₆₂H₉₁N₁₇O₂₁
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Molecular Weight: Approximately 1410.60 g/mol
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Purity: ≥98% (typically)
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Appearance: White powder or clear liquid
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Grade: Cosmetic grade
2. Key Benefits and Applications
Oligopeptide-68 Beta is a high‑purity synthetic bioactive peptide designed primarily for skin brightening and depigmenting purposes. It effectively inhibits melanin synthesis and reduces melanin deposition, helping to even out skin tone and fade dark spots such as sunspots, freckles, and age spots. In addition, it offers anti‑aging benefits by improving skin texture and minimising the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
This versatile ingredient is compatible with a wide range of skincare formulations, including brightening serums, anti‑spot creams, BB creams, foundations, facial masks (sheet masks and wash‑off masks), eye creams, and toners.
3. Mechanism of Action
Oligopeptide-68 exerts its effects by mimicking the activity of transforming growth factor‑beta (TGF‑β). It binds to TGF‑β receptors on keratinocytes, triggering a signalling cascade that downregulates microphthalmia‑associated transcription factor (MITF). MITF is the master regulator of melanogenesis, controlling the expression of key melanogenic enzymes such as tyrosinase, TRP‑1, and TRP‑2. By suppressing MITF activity, the peptide reduces melanin production at its source, achieving effective and safe skin lightening without the cytotoxicity commonly associated with traditional agents like hydroquinone.
4. Recommended Usage and Formulation Guidelines
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Recommended concentration in finished products: 0.5% – 5.0%
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Solubility: Readily soluble in water and aqueous systems; also soluble in glycols and alcohol‑water mixtures
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pH stability range: 4.0 – 7.0
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Add during the cooling‑down phase of formulation (below 40°C) to preserve peptide integrity
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Compatible with most common cosmetic ingredients; avoid strong oxidising agents and excessive heat
5. Packaging and Storage
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Packaging options: 1g, 10g, 100g, or 1kg for powder; liquid forms are also available in 20 ml or 1 kg bottles
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Storage conditions: Store in sealed, moisture‑proof, and light‑protected containers. For short‑term use (up to 6 months), refrigerate at 2–8°C. For long‑term stability (up to 24 months), store at ‑20°C.
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Shelf life: 2–3 years when stored under the recommended conditions
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Avoid repeated freeze‑thaw cycles, especially for stock solutions
6. Competitive Advantages
Compared to conventional skin‑lightening ingredients, Oligopeptide-68 offers a targeted mechanism through MITF downregulation, leading to lower cytotoxicity and reduced skin irritation. It exhibits excellent thermal and oxidative stability, making it easier to formulate than unstable agents such as vitamin C. Moreover, it complies with major international cosmetic regulations (EU, US, and Chinese inventories) and is not subject to the usage restrictions often applied to hydroquinone or kojic acid.
7. Summary
Oligopeptide-68 Beta is a multifunctional, high‑purity cosmetic active ingredient that provides proven skin‑brightening, depigmenting, and anti‑ageing benefits via a biomimetic pathway. It is the preferred choice for premium skincare, dermatological, and cosmeceutical formulations that demand both safety and efficacy.