Octapeptide-11 is a synthetic peptide with sequence Met-Ile-Pro-Cys-Tyr-Ile-Ser-Ser known under the trade name CG-Seperin. It acts as an inhibitor of the MMP (Matrix MetalloProteinase) enzyme responsible for hyaluronic acid degradation.
Helping to keep hyaluronic acid in a high-molecular-weight state (highly polymerized), Octapeptide-11 improves skin's water retention ability, smoothness, and elasticity. It also lessens low-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid (LMWHA) quantities that can promote pro-inflammatory cytokines production. So, it leaves a mediated anti-inflammatory and soothing effect on the skin.
Suppressing collagen degradation by MMP, Octapeptide-11 helps to maintain skin firmness and suppleness, exposing a smoother, youthful, and radiant appearance. It also preserves dermal cells from apoptosis (programmed death) after oxidative stress.