Acetyl Sh-Oligopeptide-26 Sh-Oligopeptide-27 Sp: What Is It, Cosmetic Uses, Benefits & Side Effects

Curious about this ingredient? In this article we're explaining exactly what it is and why it's used within cosmetic formulations.
Updated on: June 23, 2025
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All information on this page is verified using The Personal Care Products Council's (PCPC) INCI database. Our ingredient analyses are based exclusively on PCPC's technical data to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Acetyl Sh-Oligopeptide-26 Sh-Oligopeptide-27 Sp?

Acetyl Sh-Oligopeptide-26 Sh-Oligopeptide-27 Sp is a lab-made blend of two short chains of amino acids that have been acetylated, a common tweak that helps the peptides stay stable and work well on skin. Because it is synthetic, it is free from animal by-products and can be produced in a controlled setting. The peptides were first explored by skincare labs looking for gentler options to support the skin’s natural barrier and keep moisture locked in. Over time formulators noticed their skin-soothing qualities, so the ingredient began showing up in higher-end moisturizers and anti-aging lines.

Manufacturing starts with solid-phase peptide synthesis, where amino acids are linked one by one into the exact sequence of Sh-Oligopeptide-26 and Sh-Oligopeptide-27. The resulting chains are then acetylated to improve their affinity for skin. After purification and safety checks the finished powder is blended into water-based or emulsion formulas.

You are most likely to find Acetyl Sh-Oligopeptide-26 Sh-Oligopeptide-27 Sp in leave-on products such as serums, facial creams, sheet masks, eye treatments and replenishing lotions that focus on hydration and barrier support.

Acetyl Sh-Oligopeptide-26 Sh-Oligopeptide-27 Sp’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This ingredient serves several roles that make a formula feel and perform better on the skin.

  • Skin conditioning: Helps keep skin feeling soft and smooth by supporting its natural proteins and attracting light moisture
  • Emollient: Adds slip and a silky after-feel which can reduce visible roughness and make the product spread evenly
  • Skin protecting: Forms a lightweight film that shields the surface from daily irritants and moisture loss giving the complexion a calmer look

Who Can Use Acetyl Sh-Oligopeptide-26 Sh-Oligopeptide-27 Sp

This peptide blend is lightweight and non greasy so it generally suits all skin types including dry, normal, combination, oily and even sensitive skin that reacts to heavier occlusives. There are no known traits that make it unsuitable for acne prone or mature skin, and its film forming ability can actually help calm visibly compromised areas.

Because the compound is fully synthetic and contains no animal by products it is considered vegan and vegetarian friendly. Its production relies on lab made amino acids rather than any tissue derived material so it aligns with plant based and cruelty free preferences.

No specific warnings exist for pregnant or breastfeeding women, and the ingredient is not known to penetrate deeply or act hormonally. Still, safety data in these groups is limited so this is not medical advice and pregnant or nursing individuals should clear any new skincare with their doctor first just to be safe.

Acetyl Sh-Oligopeptide-26 Sh-Oligopeptide-27 Sp does not increase photosensitivity so it can be worn during daytime without boosting sunburn risk, though daily sunscreen is always recommended for overall skin health. The peptide is also considered fragrance free and dye free by itself which lowers the chance of extra irritants entering a formula.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Responses to topical Acetyl Sh-Oligopeptide-26 Sh-Oligopeptide-27 Sp can differ from one person to another. The points below outline potential but uncommon reactions. In a well formulated product most users will not encounter these issues.

  • Mild redness or warmth shortly after application
  • Transient itching or tingling as the product absorbs
  • Rare allergic contact dermatitis presenting as persistent rash or swelling
  • Isolated clogged pores or small breakouts if the product also contains heavier oils
  • Eye irritation if the formula accidentally gets into the eyes

If any of these reactions occur stop using the product and seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional or dermatologist.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0 / 5

Acetyl Sh-Oligopeptide-26 Sh-Oligopeptide-27 Sp is a small, water-compatible peptide that contains no heavy oils, waxes or fatty acids that typically block pores. It sits lightly on the surface, forming a thin breathable film that rinses away easily during cleansing, so it earns the lowest possible comedogenic score.

Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin.

Because the peptide is usually added at low concentrations and paired with lightweight vehicles, it rarely alters the overall pore-clogging profile of a formula. Always check the full ingredient list if you are highly sensitive to comedogenic additives.

Summary

Acetyl Sh-Oligopeptide-26 Sh-Oligopeptide-27 Sp conditions skin, softens rough spots and adds a protective veil that helps reduce everyday moisture loss. It achieves these benefits by mimicking portions of the skin’s own proteins, binding light hydration and smoothing the surface for a silkier feel.

The peptide blend is still a niche addition rather than a mainstream staple, showing up mainly in specialty serums, barrier creams and K-beauty sheet masks targeted at sensitive or dehydrated skin.

Current data points to a very safe profile with low irritation and virtually zero pore-clogging risk, but as with any new skincare product it is wise to perform a patch test first to rule out individual sensitivities.

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