Ingredient review
SH-Polypeptide-107
INCI: SH-Polypeptide-107
A lab-made peptide that signals skin cells to produce more collagen, helping reduce fine lines and improve firmness with consistent use.
In plain English
SH-Polypeptide-107 is a short chain of amino acids (the building blocks of protein) made in a lab. When applied to skin, it acts like a messenger, telling skin cells to ramp up collagen production. More collagen means firmer, plumper skin and fewer visible fine lines over time. It's a gentle ingredient, unlikely to cause irritation or clog pores, making it suitable for most skin types.
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-107 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-107.
- 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-107 is a synthetic peptide, meaning it's a man-made chain of amino acids designed to mimic natural signaling molecules in the skin. It belongs to a class of peptides known as 'signal peptides' because they communicate with skin cells to trigger specific responses, like collagen synthesis.
How it works
When applied topically, SH-Polypeptide-107 penetrates the outer layer of the skin and binds to receptors on fibroblasts (the cells that produce collagen and elastin). This binding sends a signal that stimulates these cells to increase collagen production. Over weeks of regular use, this can lead to improved skin density, reduced wrinkle depth, and a more youthful appearance.
Pros
Gentle anti-aging support
Unlike retinol or acids, SH-Polypeptide-107 rarely causes irritation, redness, or peeling, making it a safe option for sensitive or reactive skin.
Targets collagen at the source
It directly signals skin cells to produce more collagen, addressing one of the root causes of aging skin rather than just hydrating or plumping temporarily.
Cons and cautions
Slow, cumulative results
You won't see changes overnight. It typically takes 4 to 8 weeks of twice-daily use before improvements in firmness and fine lines become noticeable.
Effectiveness depends on formulation
Peptides can be fragile. If the product's pH is off or the delivery system is poor, the peptide may break down before it reaches skin cells, reducing its benefits.
Best for
- Anyone looking to reduce signs of aging like fine lines and loss of firmness
- People with sensitive skin who cannot tolerate stronger anti-aging ingredients like retinol
Use caution if
- Those seeking immediate or dramatic results (peptides work gradually)
- Individuals with known allergies to synthetic peptides (rare)
Usage tips
Safety summary
SH-Polypeptide-107 is considered safe for cosmetic use. It has a low irritation and comedogenic risk, and no significant safety concerns have been reported in the scientific literature. As with any new ingredient, a patch test is recommended for those with very sensitive skin.
Research notes
Research on signal peptides like SH-Polypeptide-107 shows they can stimulate collagen synthesis in vitro (in lab studies). Human clinical studies on similar peptides (e.g., Matrixyl) demonstrate improvements in wrinkle depth and skin firmness with consistent use over 8–12 weeks. However, independent peer-reviewed studies specifically on SH-Polypeptide-107 are limited, and most evidence comes from manufacturer data.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Typically used at 0.5% to 2% in leave-on products
- Regulatory status
- Approved as a cosmetic ingredient in the US, EU, and other major markets. It is not classified as a drug and is not intended to treat or prevent disease.
- Common uses
- Anti-aging serums, Firming creams, Eye treatments
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic peptide, it is produced in controlled laboratory conditions, which reduces the environmental impact compared to harvesting from natural sources. However, its production requires chemical synthesis and purification, which has an energy footprint.
Good to know
- SH-Polypeptide-107 is often combined with other peptides or antioxidants in multi-peptide serums for enhanced anti-aging effects.
- It is water-soluble, so it works best in water-based serums rather than oil-based products.
Common questions
What is SH-Polypeptide-107 in beauty products?
SH-Polypeptide-107 is a short chain of amino acids (the building blocks of protein) made in a lab. When applied to skin, it acts like a messenger, telling skin cells to ramp up collagen production. More collagen means firmer, plumper skin and fewer visible fine lines over time. It's a gentle ingredient, unlikely to cause irritation or clog pores, making it suitable for most skin types.
What does SH-Polypeptide-107 do in a beauty product?
When applied topically, SH-Polypeptide-107 penetrates the outer layer of the skin and binds to receptors on fibroblasts (the cells that produce collagen and elastin). This binding sends a signal that stimulates these cells to increase collagen production. Over weeks of regular use, this can lead to improved skin density, reduced wrinkle depth, and a more youthful appearance.
Is SH-Polypeptide-107 safe for most people?
SH-Polypeptide-107 is considered safe for cosmetic use. It has a low irritation and comedogenic risk, and no significant safety concerns have been reported in the scientific literature. As with any new ingredient, a patch test is recommended for those with very sensitive skin.
Who should be careful with SH-Polypeptide-107?
Those seeking immediate or dramatic results (peptides work gradually) Individuals with known allergies to synthetic peptides (rare)
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.