Peptides

Palmitoyl Oligopeptide-78

INCI: PALMITOYL OLIGOPEPTIDE-78

Reviewed by Emma · Last updated 2 Jun 2026

Also known as: Palmitoyl Oligopeptide-78

A palmitoylated peptide designed to support skin conditioning and resilience

Best For Skin Types

All, Sensitive

Addresses

Sensitivity, Barrier repair, Dryness

Usage Frequency

Daily

What Is Palmitoyl Oligopeptide-78?

Palmitoyl Oligopeptide-78 is a synthetic peptide—a short chain of amino acids—that has been modified with a palmitoyl group (a fatty acid derivative). This modification helps the peptide penetrate and interact more effectively with skin cells. It functions primarily as a skin conditioning agent, working to support the skin's structural integrity and overall resilience.

Peptides in skincare are valued for their ability to communicate with skin cells and support natural biological processes. This particular ingredient is found in a variety of facial care formulations, often included in products designed to address skin sensitivity and support barrier function.

How It Works

The peptide component of this ingredient communicates with skin cells through receptor-mediated pathways, signalling cells to support natural maintenance and conditioning processes. The palmitoyl modification acts as a delivery system, allowing the peptide to more effectively reach and interact with skin tissue rather than being lost at the surface.

By engaging these cellular communication pathways, the ingredient encourages the skin to maintain optimal hydration and barrier function, which underpins overall skin health and tolerance.

Clinical Evidence & References

Research into peptides for sensitive skin suggests that well-formulated peptide ingredients can play a role in products designed for reactive or compromised skin. Peptides in general have shown potential in supporting skin conditioning and barrier resilience, though specific clinical data on Palmitoyl Oligopeptide-78 in isolation is limited in the published literature.

The ingredient appears most frequently in formulations marketed for sensitive skin, which suggests industry confidence in its tolerability and functional role. However, robust clinical trials specifically measuring efficacy outcomes for this ingredient would help clarify its precise benefits and optimal concentrations.

How to Use

This ingredient is typically used as part of a complete formulation rather than in isolation. It works well in moisturisers, serums, and barrier-support products. Since it is designed to support skin conditioning, consistent daily use is generally recommended to allow the skin's natural processes to respond. If you have very reactive skin, introduce it gradually to monitor tolerance, though it is generally well-suited to sensitive skin formulations.

Safety & Precautions

Palmitoyl Oligopeptide-78 is generally considered well-tolerated and is commonly included in products for sensitive skin. Some individuals with fungal acne concerns have reported that certain peptide-based products may potentially feed yeast; if you are prone to fungal acne, patch-test first or consult a dermatologist before use.

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