Ingredient or product comparison
Peptide Pigmentation Comparison — Clinical Evidence
Oligopeptide-34 MC1R receptor antagonist. Blocks -MSH signalling to tyrosinase 425 Da 28–41% reduction in tyrosinase activity at 10 M (Seoul National University, 2018) Most studied melanogenesis inhibitor. Strongest evidence for melasma when combined with ni
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- Oligopeptide-34
- MC1R receptor antagonist. Blocks α-MSH signalling to tyrosinase
- 425 Da
- 28–41% reduction in tyrosinase activity at 10 μM (Seoul National University, 2018)
- Most studied melanogenesis inhibitor. Strongest evidence for melasma when combined with niacinamide
- Nonapeptide-1
- PAR-2 inhibition. Prevents melanin transfer from melanocytes to keratinocytes
- 1,206 Da
- 28% reduction in MASI score over 12 weeks at 2% topical concentration (Dermatologic Surgery, 2019)
- High molecular weight limits penetration without liposomal delivery. Requires carrier system
- Hexapeptide-2
- Glutathione pathway activation. Shifts eumelanin to pheomelanin production
- 641 Da
- 19% reduction in melanin index after 8 weeks at 5% serum (Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020)
- Gentlest option for sensitive skin. Minimal irritation profile but slower visible results
- Tetrapeptide-30
- Direct tyrosinase competitive inhibition at copper-binding site
- 457 Da
- 22% reduction in post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) after acne lesions (Clinical and Experimental Dermatology, 2017)
- Best for PIH rather than constitutional hyperpigmentation. Works synergistically with retinoids