Hexapeptide-2

Synthetic Cosmetic HexapeptideRx: OtcCompound: Research

Also known as: Ac-Lys-DPhe-Arg-Trp-Dap-NH2, MC1R antagonist peptide, Melanostatine-5

Educational Only — Not medical advice. Consult a qualified clinician before using any peptide.

Summary

Hexapeptide-2 (also known as Melanostatine-5 or Ac-Lys-DPhe-Arg-Trp-Dap-NH2 analog) is a synthetic cosmetic peptide used in topical skincare formulations primarily as a skin-brightening and depigmenting agent. It acts as an antagonist at melanocortin-1 receptor (MC1R), reducing tyrosinase activity and melanin production. It is predominantly used in cosmetic formulations targeting hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and uneven skin tone.

Mechanism of Action

Binds to melanocortin receptors (MC1R) as an antagonist, reducing melanin synthesis by competitively inhibiting alpha-MSH binding, thereby decreasing skin pigmentation and potentially modulating skin tone.

Routes of Administration

Topical

Goals & Uses

  • Dark spot treatmentCosmetic / DermatologyLow
  • Reduction of hyperpigmentationDermatology / CosmeticLow
  • Skin brightening and evening of skin toneCosmeticLow
  • Reduction of UV-induced pigmentationPhotoprotection / CosmeticLow

Contraindications

  • Application to broken or inflamed skinSkin IntegrityLow
  • Known hypersensitivity to peptide componentsAllergyModerate

Adverse Effects

  • Local skin irritationDermatologicalUncommon
  • Contact dermatitisDermatologicalRare
  • Over-depigmentationDermatologicalRare

Drug Interactions

  • Other depigmenting agents (e.g., hydroquinone, kojic acid)Low

Population Constraints

  • Pregnant or breastfeeding individualsReproductive SafetyRelative
  • ChildrenPediatricRelative

Regulatory Status

  • European UnionUnapprovedPermitted for cosmetic use under EU Cosmetics Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 as a cosmetic ingredient.
  • United StatesUnapprovedUsed as a cosmetic ingredient only; not FDA-approved as a drug. Regulated under cosmetic category.
  • United KingdomUnapprovedConsidered a cosmetic ingredient under UK cosmetics regulations; no drug approval.

Regulated as a cosmetic ingredient in most jurisdictions; not FDA-approved as a drug. Used under cosmetic regulation (e.g., EU Cosmetics Regulation). No clinical drug approval exists.

Evidence & Sources

No sources recorded yet.

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