Ingredient review
SH-Polypeptide-73
INCI: SH-Polypeptide-73
A synthetic peptide that may help reduce fine lines by signaling skin to produce more collagen, but long-term human data is still limited.
In plain English
SH-Polypeptide-73 is a lab-made chain of amino acids (a peptide) designed to mimic natural signals in your skin. When applied in a cream or serum, it tells your skin cells to ramp up collagen production, which can help plump the skin and soften the look of fine lines over time. Think of it as a gentle nudge to your skin's natural repair system.
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-73 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-73.
- 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-73 is a synthetic peptide engineered to act as a signaling molecule in skincare. It belongs to a class of ingredients called 'signal peptides' that are designed to communicate with skin cells to encourage collagen and elastin synthesis.
How it works
When applied topically, SH-Polypeptide-73 penetrates the outer layer of the skin and binds to specific 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 improve skin firmness and reduce the appearance of wrinkles over consistent use.
Pros
Gentle collagen support
Unlike stronger actives like retinoids, SH-Polypeptide-73 is unlikely to cause peeling or redness, making it a good option for those with sensitive skin who still want anti-aging benefits.
Compatible with most routines
This peptide layers well with other skincare ingredients, including hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and antioxidants, without causing pilling or irritation.
Cons and cautions
Gradual results
Don't expect overnight changes. Visible improvements in fine lines typically take 8 to 12 weeks of daily use, which may test the patience of users seeking quick fixes.
Limited research on this specific peptide
While the concept of signal peptides is well-studied, SH-Polypeptide-73 itself has fewer published studies compared to more established peptides like Matrixyl, so the evidence is less robust.
Best for
- Adults looking to prevent or reduce early signs of aging
- People with normal to dry skin seeking a gentle collagen-boosting ingredient
Use caution if
- Individuals with known allergies to synthetic peptides (rare)
Usage tips
Safety summary
SH-Polypeptide-73 is considered safe for topical cosmetic use at typical concentrations. Irritation and allergy are rare, but patch testing is recommended for those with very sensitive skin.
Research notes
The broader category of signal peptides has moderate evidence supporting collagen stimulation in vitro and in small human trials. Direct studies on SH-Polypeptide-73 are limited, but its mechanism is well understood from related peptides.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Typically used at 0.5% to 2% in leave-on products
- Regulatory status
- Approved for cosmetic use in the US, EU, and other major markets. 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 fragile and can be destabilized by very low or high pH formulas; look for products with a pH around 5-6.
- SH-Polypeptide-73 is often combined with other peptides in anti-aging blends for a synergistic effect.
Common questions
What is SH-Polypeptide-73 in beauty products?
SH-Polypeptide-73 is a lab-made chain of amino acids (a peptide) designed to mimic natural signals in your skin. When applied in a cream or serum, it tells your skin cells to ramp up collagen production, which can help plump the skin and soften the look of fine lines over time. Think of it as a gentle nudge to your skin's natural repair system.
What does SH-Polypeptide-73 do in a beauty product?
When applied topically, SH-Polypeptide-73 penetrates the outer layer of the skin and binds to specific 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 improve skin firmness and reduce the appearance of wrinkles over consistent use.
Is SH-Polypeptide-73 safe for most people?
SH-Polypeptide-73 is considered safe for topical cosmetic use at typical concentrations. Irritation and allergy are rare, but patch testing is recommended for those with very sensitive skin.
Who should be careful with SH-Polypeptide-73?
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.