Ingredient review
SH-Polypeptide-94
INCI: SH-Polypeptide-94
A synthetic peptide that may help support collagen and reduce fine lines, but research is still emerging and results vary.
In plain English
SH-Polypeptide-94 is a lab-made chain of amino acids (peptides) designed to signal skin cells to behave more youthfully. Think of it as a tiny messenger that tells your skin to produce more collagen and elastin, which can help plump up wrinkles and improve firmness over time. It's not a miracle cure, but consistent use may give a subtle smoothing effect.
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-94 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-94.
- 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-94 is a synthetic peptide, meaning it's a short chain of amino acids created in a laboratory. It belongs to a class of ingredients called signal peptides, which are designed to mimic natural peptides in the skin that trigger repair and renewal processes.
How it works
When applied topically, SH-Polypeptide-94 is thought to penetrate the outer layer of skin and bind to receptors on fibroblasts (the cells that make collagen). This binding may stimulate the production of collagen and other structural proteins, helping to improve skin firmness and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles over time.
Pros
Gentle on skin
SH-Polypeptide-94 has a low irritation risk, making it suitable for sensitive skin types that may react to stronger anti-aging actives like retinol.
Targets collagen support
As a signal peptide, it may help stimulate collagen production, which can improve skin firmness and reduce fine lines over time.
Cons and cautions
Limited research
Compared to well-studied peptides like Matrixyl, SH-Polypeptide-94 has fewer published studies, so its effectiveness is less certain.
Subtle results
Peptides generally produce gradual, modest improvements. Users expecting dramatic wrinkle reduction may be disappointed without consistent, long-term use.
Best for
- Adults looking for a gentle anti-aging ingredient to add to their routine
- People with sensitive skin who want a low-irritation option for firming
Use caution if
- Anyone with a known allergy or sensitivity to synthetic peptides (rare)
Usage tips
Safety summary
SH-Polypeptide-94 is considered safe for cosmetic use at typical concentrations. It has a low irritation and comedogenic risk, and no significant safety concerns have been reported in available literature.
Research notes
Evidence for SH-Polypeptide-94 is based on its similarity to other signal peptides, but direct clinical studies are limited. Most data comes from manufacturer testing and ingredient comparisons rather than independent peer-reviewed research.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Typically used at 0.5% to 2% in leave-on formulations
- Regulatory status
- Approved as a cosmetic ingredient in the EU, US, and other major markets. Not classified as a drug ingredient.
- Common uses
- Anti-aging serums, Eye creams, Firming lotions
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic peptide, it is produced in controlled lab conditions, which reduces environmental impact compared to some naturally harvested ingredients.
Good to know
- SH-Polypeptide-94 is often found in anti-aging serums and eye creams.
- It is water-soluble and works best in leave-on products rather than rinse-off cleansers.
Common questions
What is SH-Polypeptide-94 in beauty products?
SH-Polypeptide-94 is a lab-made chain of amino acids (peptides) designed to signal skin cells to behave more youthfully. Think of it as a tiny messenger that tells your skin to produce more collagen and elastin, which can help plump up wrinkles and improve firmness over time. It's not a miracle cure, but consistent use may give a subtle smoothing effect.
What does SH-Polypeptide-94 do in a beauty product?
When applied topically, SH-Polypeptide-94 is thought to penetrate the outer layer of skin and bind to receptors on fibroblasts (the cells that make collagen). This binding may stimulate the production of collagen and other structural proteins, helping to improve skin firmness and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles over time.
Is SH-Polypeptide-94 safe for most people?
SH-Polypeptide-94 is considered safe for cosmetic use at typical concentrations. It has a low irritation and comedogenic risk, and no significant safety concerns have been reported in available literature.
Who should be careful with SH-Polypeptide-94?
Anyone with a known allergy or sensitivity 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.