Ingredient review
Nicotiana Benthamiana SH-Polypeptide-45
INCI: Nicotiana Benthamiana SH-Polypeptide-45
A biotech peptide from tobacco plants that may help firm skin, but research is still early and benefits are not guaranteed.
In plain English
This ingredient is a small protein fragment (a peptide) made using a special tobacco plant. It's designed to signal skin cells to produce more collagen and elastin, which can help reduce fine lines and improve firmness. Because it's made in a lab using plants, it's considered a biotech ingredient. While promising, most evidence comes from lab studies, not large human trials, so results can vary.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Potentially useful with some tradeoffs
The evidence base is still emerging, so marketing claims deserve extra caution.
Risk flags are low for most users, though the finished product can still irritate.
- Source
- biotech
- Evidence
- emerging
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
Nicotiana Benthamiana SH-Polypeptide-45 is generally a lower-concern ingredient when the full formula suits your skin.
Plain-English read
Treat this as a practical screening step before you compare products that contain this ingredient.
- Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging Nicotiana Benthamiana SH-Polypeptide-45.
- Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
- Step 3If a product stings, breaks you out, or worsens irritation, judge the finished formula and stop using it even if the ingredient scores well.
Score terms in plain English
Irritation risk
lowLess likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.
Clogging risk
lowLess likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.
Evidence level
emergingThe ingredient may be promising, but claims should be treated more cautiously.
What it is
A synthetic peptide produced via recombinant DNA technology in Nicotiana benthamiana (a relative of tobacco). It is a specific sequence of amino acids (SH-Polypeptide-45) intended to mimic natural signaling molecules in skin.
How it works
It is believed to bind to receptors on skin cells, triggering a cascade that boosts collagen and elastin production. This can help plump the skin, reduce the appearance of wrinkles, and improve overall firmness over time.
Pros
Gentle on skin
Low irritation and comedogenic risk makes it suitable for sensitive skin types.
Targeted anti-aging
Specifically designed to boost collagen and elastin, addressing firmness and wrinkles at a cellular level.
Cons and cautions
Limited human evidence
Most studies are lab-based or small; large-scale human trials are lacking, so real-world results may be inconsistent.
Premium price
Biotech production and novel status often make products with this ingredient more expensive than traditional peptides.
Best for
- Adults looking for anti-aging support
- Those with sensitive skin seeking a gentle firming option
Use caution if
- Anyone allergic to tobacco or related plants (rare)
- Those expecting immediate or dramatic results
Usage tips
Safety summary
Considered safe for topical use with low irritation and comedogenic potential. No significant safety concerns reported, but long-term human data is limited.
Research notes
Evidence is emerging. In vitro and small clinical studies suggest potential for collagen stimulation and wrinkle reduction, but more robust human trials are needed to confirm efficacy.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.001% to 0.1%
- Regulatory status
- Generally recognized as safe for cosmetic use in the US and EU when used as directed. Not a drug ingredient.
- Common uses
- Anti-aging serums, Firming creams, Eye treatments
- Environmental note
- Produced via biotech fermentation, which can be more sustainable than animal-derived or synthetic alternatives, but energy use varies by manufacturer.
Good to know
- This peptide is produced in a plant system, not extracted from tobacco leaves.
- It is often listed near the end of ingredient lists due to low use concentrations.
Common questions
What is Nicotiana Benthamiana SH-Polypeptide-45 in beauty products?
This ingredient is a small protein fragment (a peptide) made using a special tobacco plant. It's designed to signal skin cells to produce more collagen and elastin, which can help reduce fine lines and improve firmness. Because it's made in a lab using plants, it's considered a biotech ingredient. While promising, most evidence comes from lab studies, not large human trials, so results can vary.
What does Nicotiana Benthamiana SH-Polypeptide-45 do in a beauty product?
It is believed to bind to receptors on skin cells, triggering a cascade that boosts collagen and elastin production. This can help plump the skin, reduce the appearance of wrinkles, and improve overall firmness over time.
Is Nicotiana Benthamiana SH-Polypeptide-45 safe for most people?
Considered safe for topical use with low irritation and comedogenic potential. No significant safety concerns reported, but long-term human data is limited.
Who should be careful with Nicotiana Benthamiana SH-Polypeptide-45?
Anyone allergic to tobacco or related plants (rare) Those expecting immediate or dramatic results
Research sources
Ingredient reviews are educational and are not medical advice. Patch test new products and ask a licensed clinician about persistent irritation, allergies, pregnancy-specific questions, or diagnosed skin conditions.