Ingredient review
SH-Polypeptide-100
INCI: SH-Polypeptide-100
A synthetic peptide that may help support collagen and reduce fine lines, but long-term human data is still limited.
In plain English
SH-Polypeptide-100 is a lab-made chain of amino acids (a peptide) designed to signal skin cells to behave more youthfully. Think of it as a tiny messenger that tells your skin to produce more collagen and elastin, which can help plump up fine lines and improve firmness over time. It's a gentle ingredient, unlikely to cause irritation, and is often found in anti-aging serums and eye creams.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Potentially useful with some tradeoffs
The evidence base is useful, but some claims depend heavily on the formula.
Risk flags are low for most users, though the finished product can still irritate.
- Source
- synthetic
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
SH-Polypeptide-100 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 SH-Polypeptide-100.
- 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
moderateThere is useful support, but formula details and claim strength still matter.
What it is
SH-Polypeptide-100 is a synthetic peptide, meaning it's a short chain of amino acids created in a laboratory. It belongs to a class of ingredients called signal peptides, which are designed to mimic natural peptides in the skin that trigger repair and regeneration processes.
How it works
When applied topically, SH-Polypeptide-100 is thought to penetrate the upper layers of the skin and bind to receptors on fibroblasts (the cells that make collagen). This binding sends a signal to increase the production of collagen, elastin, and other structural proteins, which can help improve skin firmness and reduce the appearance of wrinkles over time.
Pros
Gentle on skin
SH-Polypeptide-100 has a low irritation and comedogenic risk, making it suitable for most skin types, including sensitive skin.
Targets aging signs
It works by signaling collagen production, which can help improve skin firmness and reduce the look of fine lines with regular use.
Cons and cautions
Slow results
Peptides like SH-Polypeptide-100 require consistent application over several weeks to months before visible improvements appear.
Limited evidence
While promising, most research on signal peptides is from lab studies or small trials; large-scale human studies are still limited.
Best for
- Individuals looking for a gentle anti-aging ingredient
- Those with fine lines and loss of firmness who want a non-irritating option
Use caution if
- People with known allergies to synthetic peptides (rare)
- Those seeking immediate results—peptides require consistent use over time
Usage tips
Safety summary
SH-Polypeptide-100 is considered safe for topical cosmetic use. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, and no significant safety concerns have been reported in available literature. As with any new ingredient, a patch test is recommended for those with very sensitive skin.
Research notes
Research on signal peptides, including SH-Polypeptide-100, suggests they can stimulate collagen production in vitro and in small human trials. However, large-scale, peer-reviewed clinical studies specific to SH-Polypeptide-100 are sparse, and most evidence comes from related peptide families.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Typically used at 0.5% to 5% in leave-on products
- Regulatory status
- Generally recognized as safe for cosmetic use in the US and EU when used as directed. Not classified as a drug ingredient.
- Common uses
- Anti-aging serums, Eye creams, Firming lotions
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic peptide, it is produced in controlled lab conditions, which reduces environmental impact compared to some natural extracts. However, its biodegradability is not well-documented.
Good to know
- Peptides are fragile—avoid using them with very low pH products (like strong AHAs) in the same routine.
- SH-Polypeptide-100 is often combined with other peptides or antioxidants for enhanced anti-aging effects.
Common questions
What is SH-Polypeptide-100 in beauty products?
SH-Polypeptide-100 is a lab-made chain of amino acids (a peptide) designed to signal skin cells to behave more youthfully. Think of it as a tiny messenger that tells your skin to produce more collagen and elastin, which can help plump up fine lines and improve firmness over time. It's a gentle ingredient, unlikely to cause irritation, and is often found in anti-aging serums and eye creams.
What does SH-Polypeptide-100 do in a beauty product?
When applied topically, SH-Polypeptide-100 is thought to penetrate the upper layers of the skin and bind to receptors on fibroblasts (the cells that make collagen). This binding sends a signal to increase the production of collagen, elastin, and other structural proteins, which can help improve skin firmness and reduce the appearance of wrinkles over time.
Is SH-Polypeptide-100 safe for most people?
SH-Polypeptide-100 is considered safe for topical cosmetic use. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, and no significant safety concerns have been reported in available literature. As with any new ingredient, a patch test is recommended for those with very sensitive skin.
Who should be careful with SH-Polypeptide-100?
People with known allergies to synthetic peptides (rare) Those seeking immediate results—peptides require consistent use over time
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.