Ingredient review
SH-Polypeptide-47
INCI: SH-Polypeptide-47
A lab-made peptide that signals skin to produce more collagen, helping reduce fine lines and improve firmness with low irritation risk.
In plain English
SH-Polypeptide-47 is a short chain of amino acids made in a lab. In skincare, it acts like a messenger that tells your skin cells to make more collagen and elastin, the proteins that keep skin plump and bouncy. Because it's a signal peptide, it doesn't do the work itself—it just encourages your skin to do its own repair. It's generally very gentle and works well in anti-aging formulas.
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-47 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-47.
- 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-47 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, which are used in cosmetics to promote collagen synthesis.
How it works
When applied topically, SH-Polypeptide-47 penetrates the outer layer of skin and binds to receptors on fibroblasts (the cells that produce collagen). This binding triggers a cascade of cellular signals that increase the production of collagen and other structural proteins, helping to reinforce the skin's support network and reduce the appearance of wrinkles.
Pros
Gentle on skin
SH-Polypeptide-47 has a low irritation risk, making it suitable for sensitive skin types that may not tolerate stronger anti-aging ingredients.
Supports natural collagen
Instead of forcing results, it encourages your skin's own collagen production, leading to more natural-looking improvements over time.
Cons and cautions
Subtle results
Peptides like SH-Polypeptide-47 work slowly and subtly. You may need to use a product consistently for several months to notice visible changes.
Less researched than alternatives
Compared to classic peptides such as Matrixyl, SH-Polypeptide-47 has fewer published studies, so the evidence base is less robust.
Best for
- Anyone looking for a gentle anti-aging ingredient to help with fine lines
- People with sensitive skin who want to avoid stronger actives like retinol
Use caution if
- Those seeking immediate or dramatic results—peptides work gradually over weeks to months
Usage tips
Safety summary
SH-Polypeptide-47 is considered safe for topical use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, making it suitable for most skin types. As with any new ingredient, a patch test is recommended for those with very sensitive skin.
Research notes
Signal peptides like SH-Polypeptide-47 are supported by in vitro studies showing they can stimulate collagen synthesis. However, large-scale human clinical trials specific to this peptide are limited. The broader peptide category has moderate evidence for anti-aging benefits.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.001% to 0.1%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the EU, US, and other major markets. It is not classified as a drug ingredient.
- 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 associated with harvesting natural ingredients.
Good to know
- Peptides are often listed near the end of an ingredient list because they are effective at very low concentrations.
- SH-Polypeptide-47 is water-soluble, so it works well in gel-based or lightweight serum formulas.
Common questions
What is SH-Polypeptide-47 in beauty products?
SH-Polypeptide-47 is a short chain of amino acids made in a lab. In skincare, it acts like a messenger that tells your skin cells to make more collagen and elastin, the proteins that keep skin plump and bouncy. Because it's a signal peptide, it doesn't do the work itself—it just encourages your skin to do its own repair. It's generally very gentle and works well in anti-aging formulas.
What does SH-Polypeptide-47 do in a beauty product?
When applied topically, SH-Polypeptide-47 penetrates the outer layer of skin and binds to receptors on fibroblasts (the cells that produce collagen). This binding triggers a cascade of cellular signals that increase the production of collagen and other structural proteins, helping to reinforce the skin's support network and reduce the appearance of wrinkles.
Is SH-Polypeptide-47 safe for most people?
SH-Polypeptide-47 is considered safe for topical use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, making it suitable for most skin types. As with any new ingredient, a patch test is recommended for those with very sensitive skin.
Who should be careful with SH-Polypeptide-47?
Those seeking immediate or dramatic results—peptides work gradually over weeks to months
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.