Ingredient review
SH-Polypeptide-55
INCI: SH-Polypeptide-55
SH-Polypeptide-55 is a lab-made peptide that may help reduce fine lines and improve skin firmness, but research is still emerging.
In plain English
SH-Polypeptide-55 is a short chain of amino acids (the building blocks of protein) made in a lab. When applied to skin, it signals cells to produce more collagen and elastin, which are the proteins that keep skin plump and firm. Think of it as a tiny messenger that tells your skin to act younger. It's commonly found in anti-aging serums and 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-55 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-55.
- 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-55 is a synthetic peptide, meaning it's a man-made fragment of a protein. It belongs to a class of ingredients called signal peptides, which are designed to mimic natural peptides that trigger collagen synthesis in the skin.
How it works
When applied topically, SH-Polypeptide-55 penetrates the outer layer of skin and binds to specific receptors on fibroblasts (the cells that produce collagen). This binding sends a signal to increase the production of collagen and other structural proteins, which can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and improve skin firmness over time.
Pros
Gentle on skin
SH-Polypeptide-55 has a low irritation and comedogenic risk, making it suitable for most skin types, including sensitive skin.
Targeted anti-aging support
It specifically signals collagen production, which can help improve skin firmness and reduce fine lines over consistent use.
Cons and cautions
Slow to show results
Peptides like SH-Polypeptide-55 require regular use for several weeks to months before visible improvements appear.
Limited independent research
Most evidence comes from manufacturer studies, and independent peer-reviewed research on this specific peptide is still sparse.
Best for
- Adults looking to reduce signs of aging
- People with mild to moderate fine lines who want a gentle anti-aging option
Use caution if
- Those with known allergies to synthetic peptides (rare)
- Anyone seeking instant results—peptides take weeks to show effects
Usage tips
Safety summary
SH-Polypeptide-55 is considered safe for topical use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential. However, as with any new ingredient, patch testing is recommended for those with very sensitive skin.
Research notes
Research on SH-Polypeptide-55 is primarily from manufacturer studies showing it can stimulate collagen production in vitro. Human clinical trials are limited, but existing evidence suggests it is a promising anti-aging ingredient with a good safety profile.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Typically used at 0.1% to 2% in leave-on products
- Regulatory status
- SH-Polypeptide-55 is not specifically regulated by the FDA as a drug; it is considered a cosmetic ingredient and must be safe for its intended use. It is listed in the INCI database and used globally in cosmetics.
- Common uses
- Anti-aging serums, Firming creams, Eye treatments
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic peptide, its production involves chemical synthesis, which has a moderate environmental footprint compared to natural extracts, but it is not known to be bioaccumulative or toxic to aquatic life.
Good to know
- SH-Polypeptide-55 is often combined with other peptides or antioxidants in anti-aging formulations.
- It is stable in most pH ranges found in skincare, but avoid using with very low pH (under 4) products that may degrade it.
Common questions
What is SH-Polypeptide-55 in beauty products?
SH-Polypeptide-55 is a short chain of amino acids (the building blocks of protein) made in a lab. When applied to skin, it signals cells to produce more collagen and elastin, which are the proteins that keep skin plump and firm. Think of it as a tiny messenger that tells your skin to act younger. It's commonly found in anti-aging serums and creams.
What does SH-Polypeptide-55 do in a beauty product?
When applied topically, SH-Polypeptide-55 penetrates the outer layer of skin and binds to specific receptors on fibroblasts (the cells that produce collagen). This binding sends a signal to increase the production of collagen and other structural proteins, which can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and improve skin firmness over time.
Is SH-Polypeptide-55 safe for most people?
SH-Polypeptide-55 is considered safe for topical use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential. However, as with any new ingredient, patch testing is recommended for those with very sensitive skin.
Who should be careful with SH-Polypeptide-55?
Those with known allergies to synthetic peptides (rare) Anyone seeking instant results—peptides take weeks to show effects
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.