Ingredient review
SH-Polypeptide-76
INCI: SH-Polypeptide-76
A lab-made peptide that signals skin to look firmer and smoother, with low irritation risk and moderate research support.
In plain English
SH-Polypeptide-76 is a short chain of amino acids (the building blocks of protein) made in a lab. When applied to skin, it acts like a tiny messenger, telling skin cells to behave more youthfully. It's not a miracle worker, but consistent use may help soften fine lines and improve skin texture over time.
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-76 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-76.
- 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-76 is a synthetic peptide, meaning it's a man-made fragment of a protein. Peptides like this are designed to mimic natural signaling molecules in the skin that encourage collagen production and repair.
How it works
In a cosmetic product, SH-Polypeptide-76 penetrates the upper layers of skin and binds to receptors on fibroblasts (the cells that make collagen). This binding triggers a mild signal for the skin to produce more collagen and elastin, which can help plump the skin and reduce the look of wrinkles.
Pros
Gentle on skin
SH-Polypeptide-76 has a low irritation and comedogenic risk, making it suitable for sensitive and acne-prone skin types.
Supports collagen signaling
It works by mimicking natural peptides that tell skin cells to produce more collagen, which can help maintain a firmer, smoother complexion over time.
Cons and cautions
Slow, subtle results
Unlike retinoids or AHAs, this peptide does not produce overnight changes. You'll need to use it consistently for weeks to months to see any visible improvement.
Effectiveness depends on formulation
The peptide must be properly stabilized and delivered at an effective concentration. A low-quality formula may not give the same benefits as a well-designed one.
Best for
- Anyone looking for a gentle anti-aging ingredient
- People with sensitive skin who want to avoid stronger actives like retinol
Use caution if
- Those expecting immediate or dramatic results
- Individuals allergic to synthetic peptides (rare)
Usage tips
Safety summary
SH-Polypeptide-76 is considered safe for topical use in cosmetics. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, and no significant safety concerns have been reported in available research.
Research notes
Peptides in general have moderate evidence supporting their anti-aging benefits, with studies showing improvements in skin firmness and wrinkle depth. However, specific clinical data for SH-Polypeptide-76 is limited, and most evidence comes from broader peptide research.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Typically used at 0.5% to 2% in leave-on products
- Regulatory status
- Approved as a cosmetic ingredient in the EU, US, and other major markets. It is not classified as a drug and does not require FDA pre-market approval.
- Common uses
- Anti-aging serums, Eye creams, Firming lotions
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic peptide, it is produced in controlled lab conditions, which reduces the environmental impact compared to harvesting from natural sources.
Good to know
- SH-Polypeptide-76 is often found in anti-aging serums and eye creams.
- It is water-soluble and works well in gel-based or lightweight formulas.
Common questions
What is SH-Polypeptide-76 in beauty products?
SH-Polypeptide-76 is a short chain of amino acids (the building blocks of protein) made in a lab. When applied to skin, it acts like a tiny messenger, telling skin cells to behave more youthfully. It's not a miracle worker, but consistent use may help soften fine lines and improve skin texture over time.
What does SH-Polypeptide-76 do in a beauty product?
In a cosmetic product, SH-Polypeptide-76 penetrates the upper layers of skin and binds to receptors on fibroblasts (the cells that make collagen). This binding triggers a mild signal for the skin to produce more collagen and elastin, which can help plump the skin and reduce the look of wrinkles.
Is SH-Polypeptide-76 safe for most people?
SH-Polypeptide-76 is considered safe for topical use in cosmetics. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, and no significant safety concerns have been reported in available research.
Who should be careful with SH-Polypeptide-76?
Those expecting immediate or dramatic results Individuals allergic 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.