Best For Skin Types
All, Dry, Mature
Addresses
Usage Frequency
Daily
What Is Hexacarboxymethyl Dipeptide-12?
Hexacarboxymethyl dipeptide-12 is a synthetic peptide — a short chain of amino acids — designed to work at the cellular level. It functions as a humectant, helping skin retain moisture, whilst also engaging deeper regenerative processes within skin cells.
This ingredient is created through laboratory synthesis rather than derived from natural sources, allowing for precise formulation and consistency across products.
How It Works
This peptide is thought to activate SIRT1, a protein involved in cellular longevity and stress response. By stimulating autophagy — essentially cellular 'housekeeping' — it may help skin cells remove damaged components and maintain optimal function.
As a humectant, it also draws water into the outer layers of skin, which can improve hydration and skin feel. The combination of these mechanisms is designed to support both immediate moisture benefits and longer-term cellular health.
Clinical Evidence & References
Laboratory studies indicate that this ingredient can activate cellular renewal pathways and show antioxidant properties when tested in skin cells exposed to oxidative stress. A placebo-controlled clinical trial found evidence of antioxidant effects and improvements in skin condition markers, though further independent research would strengthen the evidence base.
Whilst the mechanistic research is encouraging, most available studies come from the ingredient supplier. Broader independent clinical validation, particularly for visible signs of ageing, would help establish its practical efficacy in everyday skincare use.
How to Use
This ingredient is typically incorporated into serums, moisturisers, and treatment products. As a humectant, it works best when applied to damp skin or in formulations that also contain occlusive ingredients to seal in hydration. It can generally be used daily as part of morning or evening routines, depending on the product formulation.
Safety & Precautions
Frequently Asked Questions
From the Clinic
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Heptasodium Hexacarboxymethyl Dipeptide-12
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