Ingredient review
SH-Polypeptide-92
INCI: SH-Polypeptide-92
SH-Polypeptide-92 is a lab-made peptide that may help reduce fine lines by signaling skin to produce more collagen, but research is still early.
In plain English
SH-Polypeptide-92 is a tiny protein fragment (a peptide) made in a lab. When applied to skin, it acts like a messenger, telling skin cells to make more collagen and elastin—the proteins that keep skin firm and smooth. Think of it as a gentle nudge to your skin's natural repair system. It's often used in anti-aging products, but because it's a newer ingredient, long-term studies are limited.
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-92 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-92.
- 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-92 is a synthetic peptide, specifically a hexapeptide (made of six amino acids), designed to mimic naturally occurring signaling peptides in the skin. It is produced through chemical synthesis, not derived from plants or animals.
How it works
In a cosmetic product, SH-Polypeptide-92 penetrates the outer layer of skin and binds to receptors on fibroblasts (the cells that make collagen). This binding triggers a signaling cascade that increases the production of collagen and other structural proteins, helping to plump the skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles over time.
Pros
Gentle anti-aging support
Unlike stronger actives like retinoids, SH-Polypeptide-92 is unlikely to cause redness, peeling, or irritation, making it suitable for sensitive skin.
Targeted collagen signaling
It specifically encourages collagen production without disrupting the skin barrier, which can help maintain a healthy, plump complexion over time.
Cons and cautions
Limited long-term evidence
As a newer peptide, there are fewer peer-reviewed studies and long-term safety data compared to classic peptides like Matrixyl, so its full efficacy is less certain.
Subtle results require patience
Users may need to apply products consistently for several months to see noticeable improvements, and results are typically modest.
Best for
- Adults looking to reduce early signs of aging like fine lines
- People with sensitive skin who want a gentle anti-aging option
Use caution if
- Those expecting dramatic, instant results (peptides work gradually)
Usage tips
Safety summary
SH-Polypeptide-92 is considered safe for topical use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has a low irritation and comedogenic risk, making it suitable for most skin types. However, as with any new ingredient, patch testing is recommended for those with very sensitive skin.
Research notes
Research on SH-Polypeptide-92 is still emerging. Early in vitro studies suggest it can stimulate collagen synthesis, but robust human clinical trials are lacking. Most evidence is extrapolated from studies on similar peptides.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.001% to 0.1%
- Regulatory status
- SH-Polypeptide-92 is not specifically regulated by the FDA as a drug; it is considered a cosmetic ingredient and must be safe for its intended use. In the EU, it falls under general cosmetic safety regulations.
- Common uses
- Anti-aging serums, Firming creams, Eye treatments
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic peptide, SH-Polypeptide-92 is produced in a lab, which avoids the environmental impact of harvesting natural ingredients. However, its production involves chemical synthesis, which has its own energy and waste considerations.
Good to know
- Peptides like SH-Polypeptide-92 are often listed near the end of ingredient lists because they are effective at very low concentrations.
- This ingredient is compatible with most other skincare ingredients, but avoid using it with very low pH formulas (like strong AHAs) at the same time, as acidity can break down peptides.
Common questions
What is SH-Polypeptide-92 in beauty products?
SH-Polypeptide-92 is a tiny protein fragment (a peptide) made in a lab. When applied to skin, it acts like a messenger, telling skin cells to make more collagen and elastin—the proteins that keep skin firm and smooth. Think of it as a gentle nudge to your skin's natural repair system. It's often used in anti-aging products, but because it's a newer ingredient, long-term studies are limited.
What does SH-Polypeptide-92 do in a beauty product?
In a cosmetic product, SH-Polypeptide-92 penetrates the outer layer of skin and binds to receptors on fibroblasts (the cells that make collagen). This binding triggers a signaling cascade that increases the production of collagen and other structural proteins, helping to plump the skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles over time.
Is SH-Polypeptide-92 safe for most people?
SH-Polypeptide-92 is considered safe for topical use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has a low irritation and comedogenic risk, making it suitable for most skin types. However, as with any new ingredient, patch testing is recommended for those with very sensitive skin.
Who should be careful with SH-Polypeptide-92?
Those expecting dramatic, instant results (peptides work gradually)
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.