Ingredient review
SH-Polypeptide-57
INCI: SH-Polypeptide-57
SH-Polypeptide-57 is a lab-made peptide that may help support collagen and make skin look firmer, but research is still early.
In plain English
SH-Polypeptide-57 is a short chain of amino acids (the building blocks of protein) made in a lab. When applied to skin, it's thought to send signals that encourage skin cells to produce more collagen, which can help reduce fine lines and improve firmness. Because it's a newer ingredient, most of the evidence comes from lab studies rather than large human trials.
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
- synthetic
- Evidence
- emerging
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
SH-Polypeptide-57 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-57.
- 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
SH-Polypeptide-57 is a synthetic peptide, meaning it's a man-made fragment of a protein designed to mimic natural signaling molecules in the skin.
How it works
In a cosmetic product, SH-Polypeptide-57 is absorbed into the upper layers of skin where it may bind to receptors on fibroblasts (collagen-making cells) and stimulate them to produce more collagen and elastin, leading to firmer, smoother skin over time.
Pros
Gentle on skin
SH-Polypeptide-57 has a low irritation risk, making it suitable for most skin types, including sensitive skin.
Targets aging signs
It is specifically designed to support collagen production, which can help reduce fine lines and improve skin firmness over time.
Cons and cautions
Limited research
Most evidence comes from lab studies; large-scale human trials are lacking, so the real-world effectiveness is not fully proven.
Slow results
Peptides typically take weeks to months of consistent use to show visible improvements, so patience is required.
Best for
- People looking for a gentle anti-aging ingredient
- Those with early signs of aging like fine lines and loss of firmness
Use caution if
- Anyone with known sensitivity to synthetic peptides (rare)
- Those expecting immediate or dramatic results
Usage tips
Safety summary
SH-Polypeptide-57 is considered safe for topical cosmetic use at typical concentrations. Irritation and allergic reactions are rare, but as with any new ingredient, a patch test is recommended.
Research notes
Research on SH-Polypeptide-57 is in early stages. Preliminary in vitro studies suggest it may stimulate collagen synthesis, but peer-reviewed human clinical trials are not yet widely published.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Typically used at 0.5% to 2% in leave-on formulations
- Regulatory status
- SH-Polypeptide-57 is a cosmetic ingredient regulated as a cosmetic product component by the FDA in the US and similar bodies globally. It is not a drug and cannot claim to treat or cure skin diseases.
- Common uses
- Anti-aging serums, Firming creams, Eye treatments
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic peptide, SH-Polypeptide-57 is produced in controlled lab conditions, which reduces the environmental impact compared to harvesting from natural sources.
Good to know
- SH-Polypeptide-57 is often combined with other peptides or antioxidants for enhanced anti-aging effects.
- It is water-soluble and typically found in water-based serums and gels.
Common questions
What is SH-Polypeptide-57 in beauty products?
SH-Polypeptide-57 is a short chain of amino acids (the building blocks of protein) made in a lab. When applied to skin, it's thought to send signals that encourage skin cells to produce more collagen, which can help reduce fine lines and improve firmness. Because it's a newer ingredient, most of the evidence comes from lab studies rather than large human trials.
What does SH-Polypeptide-57 do in a beauty product?
In a cosmetic product, SH-Polypeptide-57 is absorbed into the upper layers of skin where it may bind to receptors on fibroblasts (collagen-making cells) and stimulate them to produce more collagen and elastin, leading to firmer, smoother skin over time.
Is SH-Polypeptide-57 safe for most people?
SH-Polypeptide-57 is considered safe for topical cosmetic use at typical concentrations. Irritation and allergic reactions are rare, but as with any new ingredient, a patch test is recommended.
Who should be careful with SH-Polypeptide-57?
Anyone with known sensitivity to synthetic peptides (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.