PFAS-Free* Peptide: Why EcoPep is the Future of Skincare

What Are PFAS and Why They Matter in Cosmetics

PFAS (Per- and Poly-FluoroAlkyl Substances) are a large group of synthetic compounds known for their exceptional durability and resistance to water, oil and heat. Their unique chemical properties have made them attractive to the cosmetics industry, especially in the synthesis of high-performance ingredients like peptides.

The Hidden PFAS Footprint in Peptide Manufacturing

Peptides are among the most effective and scientifically recognised ingredients in modern skincare. Yet behind their proven benefits lies a hidden environmental concern: most synthetic peptides are produced using PFAS reagents—particularly trifluoroacetic acid (TFA)—during deprotection and purification stages. Even after extensive processing, residual traces of TFA often remain in the final product, introducing an invisible contaminant into cosmetic formulations.
While PFAS offer technical advantages, their environmental drawbacks are substantial. These compounds are non-biodegradable and highly mobile in water, accumulating in water, soil, wildlife and even human tissue, earning them the nickname “forever chemicals”. This indirect presence of PFAS has raised major ecological and health concerns – especially among conscious consumers – and is triggering a regulatory shift worldwide.

The Global Regulatory Shift Towards PFAS-Free Beauty

With growing evidence of environmental impact and health risks, governments and health agencies around the globe are actively working to restrict the entire PFAS chemical class, including those used in upstream ingredient processing. In the EU, a proposed ban on PFAS in cosmetics is expected by 2026, with similar momentum in other regions.

Peptide manufacturing contributes to this environmental burden and health challenge, introducing PFAS residues into the supply chain. This hidden layer of contamination is a risk that is rarely considered. Reformulating PFAS-containing products is no longer a future consideration—it is an imminent requirement. Beauty brands and formulators must remain vigilant to ensure consumer safety and maintain market access. True compliance now demands more than checking ingredient lists, it calls for full transparency across the ingredient lifecycle, from sourcing to final formulation.

Oat Cosmetics’ PFAS-Free* Peptide Designed for the Future

In response to the global regulatory shift and growing demand for safe, sustainable and traceable ingredients, EcoPep marks a breakthrough in peptide innovation.

Developed through a sustainable biotechnology process, EcoPep is PFAS-Free* and has been tested for 49 PFAS compounds, including those regulated under U.S. EPA and EU REACH Annex XVII; none were detected.

Unlike conventional synthetic peptides, which often involve PFAS reactions during synthesis and carry PFAS residues, EcoPep is produced without any PFAS at any stage of its manufacturing. This makes EcoPep fully compliant with tightening global regulations and also perfectly aligned with the future of transparent beauty.

EcoPep: A Natural Peptide Powered by Biotechnology

EcoPep stands out as a natural high-purity peptide powder derived from Avena sativa (Oat). The name itself reflects its dual essence:

Eco: Sourced from sustainably farmed oats in Europe and produced with a strong emphasis on waste minimisation.
Pep: A powerful, bioactive peptide with proven revitalising properties.

EcoPep is produced through an innovative, natural enzymatic biotechnology process that repurposes oat by-products from the food industry. This approach actively supports a circular economy, prevents agricultural waste and reduces environmental impact, aligning with today’s standard for zero-waste innovation and sustainable sourcing.

EcoPep’s patent-pending process reflects a deep commitment to green chemistry, prioritising safety, resource efficiency and environmental responsibility at every step:

Upcycled oat by-product, preventing waste and promoting circularity.
No PFAS used, eliminating persistent contamination and toxicity.
No organic solvents or synthetic reagents, ensuring a safer process with minimal environmental impact.
Low-temperature processing (< 60°C), minimising energy consumption.
Sourced from sustainably farmed oats, harnessing natural and renewable raw materials.
Biodegradable peptide, breaking down in the environment and avoiding long-term accumulation — unlike synthetic peptides that often carry PFAS residues.

EcoPep’s dedication to sustainable innovation makes it a leading choice for natural, conscious cosmetic formulations.

EcoPep: A Next-Generation Ingredient for Responsible Formulation

EcoPep supports both eco-responsible sourcing and smarter formulations:

Waterless format: Delivered as a powder, EcoPep is ideal for anhydrous or solid formulations, helping reduce water usage across the supply chain.
Effective at low dosage: Delivers performance from 0.1%, enabling cost-efficient formulations with minimal input.

As PFAS regulations tighten and ingredient transparency becomes a standard practice, EcoPep offers a safe, compliant and high-performing alternative to conventional synthetic peptides.

EcoPep empowers beauty brands to:

Eliminate hidden PFAS residues from formulations,
Align with evolving global regulatory frameworks,
Demonstrate credible sustainability commitments to consumers.

In a landscape where PFAS-free formulation is rapidly becoming an industry expectation, EcoPep leads the way towards a more responsible and transparent future for cosmetic innovation.