Ingredient review
SH-Polypeptide-93
INCI: SH-Polypeptide-93
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-93 is a short chain of amino acids (a peptide) made in a lab. When applied to skin, it acts like a messenger, telling skin cells to make more collagen and elastin. This can help plump up fine lines and improve firmness over time. Because it's synthetic, it's very pure and less likely to cause irritation than some natural extracts.
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-93 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-93.
- 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
A synthetic peptide, specifically a hexapeptide (six amino acids linked together), designed to mimic natural signaling molecules in the skin that stimulate collagen synthesis.
How it works
It penetrates the upper layers of skin and binds to receptors on fibroblasts (the cells that make collagen). This triggers a cascade of signals that increase production of collagen and other structural proteins, leading to firmer, smoother skin with regular use.
Pros
Low irritation risk
Because it's a pure synthetic peptide, it's less likely to cause redness or stinging compared to some active ingredients like retinol or acids.
Targeted anti-aging action
It specifically signals collagen production, which can help improve skin firmness and smooth fine lines over weeks of consistent use.
Cons and cautions
Limited human research
Most studies on SH-Polypeptide-93 are lab-based or early stage, so the real-world effectiveness for all skin types isn't fully confirmed.
Subtle results
Don't expect overnight changes. This peptide works gradually, and visible improvements may take several months of daily use.
Best for
- People looking for a gentle anti-aging ingredient with low irritation potential
- Those with fine lines or early signs of aging who want a preventive option
Use caution if
- Anyone with a known allergy to synthetic peptides (rare)
Usage tips
Safety summary
SH-Polypeptide-93 is considered safe for topical use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. No significant side effects have been reported in available studies, though long-term safety data is limited.
Research notes
Early research suggests SH-Polypeptide-93 can stimulate collagen production in lab settings, but robust human clinical trials are lacking. It is a promising but not yet proven anti-aging ingredient.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.001% to 0.1%
- Regulatory status
- Approved as a cosmetic ingredient in the EU, US, and other major markets. Not regulated as a drug.
- Common uses
- Anti-aging serums, Firming creams, Eye treatments
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic peptide, its production has a lower environmental footprint than harvesting from natural sources, but it is not biodegradable in large quantities.
Good to know
- SH-Polypeptide-93 is often found in high-end anti-aging serums and may be listed under 'peptide complex' on labels.
- It is stable at a wide pH range, making it versatile in different formulations.
Common questions
What is SH-Polypeptide-93 in beauty products?
SH-Polypeptide-93 is a short chain of amino acids (a peptide) made in a lab. When applied to skin, it acts like a messenger, telling skin cells to make more collagen and elastin. This can help plump up fine lines and improve firmness over time. Because it's synthetic, it's very pure and less likely to cause irritation than some natural extracts.
What does SH-Polypeptide-93 do in a beauty product?
It penetrates the upper layers of skin and binds to receptors on fibroblasts (the cells that make collagen). This triggers a cascade of signals that increase production of collagen and other structural proteins, leading to firmer, smoother skin with regular use.
Is SH-Polypeptide-93 safe for most people?
SH-Polypeptide-93 is considered safe for topical use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. No significant side effects have been reported in available studies, though long-term safety data is limited.
Who should be careful with SH-Polypeptide-93?
Anyone with a known allergy 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.