Ingredient review
SH-Polypeptide-62
INCI: SH-Polypeptide-62
SH-Polypeptide-62 is a lab-made peptide that may help support collagen and elastin for a firmer, smoother look, but research is still early.
In plain English
SH-Polypeptide-62 is a small protein fragment (a peptide) made in a lab. In skincare, peptides are like little messengers that can signal skin cells to produce more collagen and elastin, which are the building blocks that keep skin firm and bouncy. Because it's a newer ingredient, there isn't as much research on it compared to well-studied peptides like Matrixyl, but early signs suggest it could help reduce fine lines over time.
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-62 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-62.
- 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-62 is a synthetic peptide, meaning it's a short chain of amino acids created in a laboratory. It belongs to a class of ingredients often called 'signal peptides' because they are designed to mimic natural peptides that tell skin cells to ramp up collagen production.
How it works
When applied topically in a well-formulated product, SH-Polypeptide-62 is thought to penetrate the outer layer of skin and bind to specific receptors on fibroblasts (the cells that make collagen). This binding may trigger a signaling cascade that encourages the cell to produce more collagen and elastin fibers, which can help improve skin firmness and reduce the appearance of wrinkles over weeks of consistent use.
Pros
Gentle on skin
Unlike some anti-aging actives, SH-Polypeptide-62 is considered very low risk for irritation, making it suitable for sensitive skin types.
Targets collagen support
It works by signaling skin cells to produce more collagen, which is a fundamental way to maintain skin firmness and reduce fine lines over time.
Cons and cautions
Limited research
Compared to classic peptides, there are fewer published studies on SH-Polypeptide-62, so its long-term efficacy is less established.
Results take time
Peptides generally require consistent use for several weeks to months before visible changes appear, and results are often subtle.
Best for
- Adults looking for a gentle anti-aging ingredient to add to their routine
- People with sensitive skin who want to avoid stronger actives like retinol
Use caution if
- Anyone with a known allergy or sensitivity to peptides (rare but possible)
Usage tips
Safety summary
SH-Polypeptide-62 is considered safe for topical cosmetic use with a low risk of irritation or comedogenicity. As with any new ingredient, patch testing is recommended for those with very sensitive skin or allergies.
Research notes
Research on SH-Polypeptide-62 specifically is limited. Most evidence for its mechanism is based on general peptide science and studies on similar signal peptides. More peer-reviewed clinical trials are needed to confirm its efficacy in humans.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Typically used at very low concentrations, often below 1%
- Regulatory status
- In the US and EU, SH-Polypeptide-62 is considered a cosmetic ingredient and is not subject to pre-market approval. It is generally recognized as safe for topical use when formulated properly.
- Common uses
- Anti-aging serums, Eye creams, Firming lotions
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic peptide, it is produced in a lab, which avoids the environmental impact of harvesting from natural sources. However, its production does involve chemical synthesis and purification processes.
Good to know
- Peptides are often listed near the end of an ingredient list because they are effective at very low concentrations.
- SH-Polypeptide-62 is not the same as copper peptides or other common peptide blends.
Common questions
What is SH-Polypeptide-62 in beauty products?
SH-Polypeptide-62 is a small protein fragment (a peptide) made in a lab. In skincare, peptides are like little messengers that can signal skin cells to produce more collagen and elastin, which are the building blocks that keep skin firm and bouncy. Because it's a newer ingredient, there isn't as much research on it compared to well-studied peptides like Matrixyl, but early signs suggest it could help reduce fine lines over time.
What does SH-Polypeptide-62 do in a beauty product?
When applied topically in a well-formulated product, SH-Polypeptide-62 is thought to penetrate the outer layer of skin and bind to specific receptors on fibroblasts (the cells that make collagen). This binding may trigger a signaling cascade that encourages the cell to produce more collagen and elastin fibers, which can help improve skin firmness and reduce the appearance of wrinkles over weeks of consistent use.
Is SH-Polypeptide-62 safe for most people?
SH-Polypeptide-62 is considered safe for topical cosmetic use with a low risk of irritation or comedogenicity. As with any new ingredient, patch testing is recommended for those with very sensitive skin or allergies.
Who should be careful with SH-Polypeptide-62?
Anyone with a known allergy or sensitivity to peptides (rare but possible)
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.