Decapeptide-12
Also known as: Lumixyl Peptide
Molecular Identifiers
Molecular Formula
C65H90N18O17
CAS Number
137665-91-9
PubChem CID
25087629Molecular Weight
~1.4 kDa
Overview
10-amino acid peptide developed as a topical depigmenting agent. Competitively inhibits the tyrosinase enzyme, reducing melanin production without cytotoxicity to melanocytes.
Decapeptide-12 is aimed at skin lightening: it competitively inhibits tyrosinase — the key enzyme in the melanin production pathway — gradually and reversibly reducing pigmentation. Unlike classic depigmenting agents such as hydroquinone, it is not cytotoxic to melanocytes, which translates into a better tolerance profile for prolonged use in melasma, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and sun spots.
It is a cosmetic active ingredient, formulated in topical serums and creams at typical concentrations of 100-200 ppm. It is not regulated as a medicine by the FDA, EMA, or ANVISA; it enters the market through cosmetic legislation. In Brazil, it is available in compounding pharmacies and in ready-made cosmetic products, usually combined with other depigmenting agents.
It was originally developed by Envy Medical and popularized under the commercial name Lumixyl. Visible results typically appear after 8-12 weeks of regular use; the available clinical evidence is mainly based on studies from the manufacturer itself and dermatological case series.
Among cosmetic peptides, Decapeptide-12 occupies a distinct functional niche: while Argireline, SNAP-8, and Acetyl Octapeptide-1 target facial muscle contraction, and Matrixyl and Tripeptide-29 stimulate collagen, Decapeptide-12 is the only one on this list focused on tyrosinase inhibition and skin lightening. Because they act on different targets, it is often paired with anti-aging peptides in multi-active formulations that combine spot and wrinkle treatment.
YRSRKYSSWY Tyr-Arg-Ser-Arg-Lys-Tyr-Ser-Ser-Trp-Tyr Half-life
Variable (topical use)
Administration Route
Topical
Category
Cosmetic & Skin
Mechanism of Action
- Competitive tyrosinase inhibition
- Reduction of melanin synthesis
- No cytotoxicity to melanocytes
- Gradual and uniform skin lightening
- Reversible mechanism (no permanent depigmentation)
Dosage Protocol
Data compiled from the literature. This does not constitute medical advice.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Dose | Topical application |
| Frequency | 1-2 times daily |
| Timing | Morning and/or evening |
| Duration | 8-12 weeks for visible results |
Reported Side Effects
Adverse effects described in the literature. Severity and frequency vary between individuals.
- Mild skin irritation (rare)
Product Properties
| Purity | >98% |
| Appearance | White lyophilized powder |
| Solubility | Soluble in water and bacteriostatic water |
| Source | Solid-phase peptide synthesis (SPPS) |
| Storage | Lyophilized: -20°C for up to 2 years, 2-8°C for up to 6 months. Reconstituted: 2-8°C for up to 4 weeks. Protect from light and moisture. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles. |
Presentations & Preparation
Vials of Decapeptide-12 found in the research market:
Reconstitution
- Diluent: N/A (topical use)
- Volume: N/A
- Supplied as powder or topical formulations
- Typical concentration 100-200 ppm
Storage
- Lyophilized: Room temperature
- Reconstituted: N/A
- Protect from light and moisture
- Keep tightly sealed
Scientific Studies
Published studies on Decapeptide-12.
Related Peptides
Acetyl Octapeptide-1
Topical 3-5% · Twice daily
AHK-Cu
Topical or 200-500 mcg subcutaneous · 1-2 times daily (topical), every other day (subcutaneous)
Argireline
Topical 5-10% or 100-250 mcg subcutaneous · Topical twice daily, subcutaneous 2-3x per week
GHK Basic
Topical or 200-600 mcg subcutaneous · 1-2 times daily (topical), every other day (subcutaneous)
Matrixyl
Topical application · 1-2 times daily
Melanotan I
0.5-1 mg per injection · Every other day (loading phase), weekly (maintenance)