Oligopeptide-1

Oligopeptide-1 (EGF) is a skin-repair signaling peptide typically used at very low concentrations (often ppm to low %), and available clinical/consumer patch-test data generally show low rates of irritation compared with acids, retinoids, or fragrance. However, because it is a bioactive protein that can occasionally sting on compromised barriers and formulations often pair it with penetration enhancers/preservatives, it is not truly inert; a very gentle score best reflects real-world risk in highly sensitive or eczematous skin. Safety Notes: In commercial skincare, Oligopeptide-1 (commonly used to denote EGF-type signaling peptides) is most often dosed extremely low, with many mass-market serums/creams using trace levels around 0.000001–0.0001% (typically a supplied-in-solution active added at <1%). The highest OTC consumer-available “EGF” ampoules/serums and some single-ingredient booster-style products reach about 0.01–0.05% when calculated on an active basis, above which stability/biological activity, cost, and claims/regulatory risk generally limit use. It is overwhelmingly a leave-on active (serums, ampoules, creams); rinse-off use exists but is usually at the very low end due to short contact time and cost.