Hexadecyl (2S)-2-[[(2S)-2-acetamido-3-(4-hydroxyphenyl)propanoyl]amino]-5-(diaminomethylideneamino)pentanoate is a synthetic, nonsteroidal antiaging compound that has been shown to have cutaneous hydration effects in humans. This agent is thought to work by increasing the production of extracellular matrix proteins and by enhancing the water retention capacity of stratum corneum cells. Hexadecyl (2S)-2-[[(2S)-2-acetamido-3-(4-hydroxyphenyl)propanoyl]amino]-5-(diaminomethylideneamino)pentanoate has also been shown to improve clinical signs of aging, such as wrinkles and age spots, by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation.