What Is Acetyl Sh-Oligopeptide-77 Amide?
Acetyl Sh-Oligopeptide-77 Amide is a lab-crafted short chain of amino acids that has been capped with acetic acid and finished with an amide group at one end. This small chemical tweak helps keep the peptide stable and easier to blend into cosmetic formulas. The peptide itself is modeled after fragments found naturally in skin, so it is recognized and well tolerated once applied.
The ingredient was born out of advances in peptide research during the early 2000s, when chemists looked for gentler ways to signal skin to stay moisturized and resilient. Using solid-phase peptide synthesis, individual amino acids are strung together in a specific order, the chain is acetylated, then the terminal carboxyl group is converted into an amide. The finished powder is purified, dried and delivered to formulators.
You will most often see Acetyl Sh-Oligopeptide-77 Amide in lightweight serums, anti-aging creams, sheet masks, eye treatments and daily moisturizers aimed at boosting hydration and improving overall skin feel.
Acetyl Sh-Oligopeptide-77 Amide’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This peptide is prized for one clear role in skincare.
Skin conditioning: By mimicking naturally occurring skin peptides, Acetyl Sh-Oligopeptide-77 Amide helps attract and hold water, leaving the surface softer, smoother and more supple. Regular use can support a healthier moisture barrier which in turn promotes a fresher, revitalized complexion.
Who Can Use Acetyl Sh-Oligopeptide-77 Amide
This peptide is generally well tolerated by all skin types, including dry, oily, combination and even sensitive skin, thanks to its lightweight texture and skin familiar structure. There are no known concerns that make it unsuitable for any particular skin type, though anyone with a history of allergies to peptides should proceed with caution.
Because Acetyl Sh-Oligopeptide-77 Amide is made entirely through laboratory synthesis and involves no animal derivatives, it is considered friendly for both vegetarians and vegans.
Current data shows no direct risks for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when using products that contain this ingredient. That said, this information is not medical advice and pregnant or nursing individuals should always clear any skincare routine with a qualified doctor to be safe.
The ingredient does not cause photosensitivity, so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. Daily sun protection is still recommended for overall skin health. Acetyl Sh-Oligopeptide-77 Amide also plays nicely with most other skincare actives, making it easy to slot into existing routines without special timing or layering rules.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects from topical use of Acetyl Sh-Oligopeptide-77 Amide can vary from one person to another. The points below outline potential reactions and are not expected to reflect the experience of the average user. When formulated correctly, most people enjoy the ingredient without any problems.
- Mild redness or flushing
- Temporary stinging or tingling upon application
- Dry patches if used in a very high concentration without adequate moisturizers
- Itchiness or irritation in those with peptide allergies
- Rare cases of contact dermatitis, especially on already compromised skin
If you experience any of the reactions above stop using the product and seek guidance from a healthcare professional or dermatologist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 (non-comedogenic)
Acetyl Sh-Oligopeptide-77 Amide is a water-soluble peptide with no oily or waxy components that could clog pores. It sits lightly on the skin, absorbs quickly and is usually delivered in lightweight serums or gels, not heavy occlusive bases. Because it does not leave a residue that can trap sebum or dead cells, it earns the lowest comedogenic score.
Suitable for acne-prone and breakout-prone skin.
Its effectiveness depends more on the overall formula than the peptide itself, so always consider the full ingredient list of any product if you are highly sensitive to pore-clogging agents.
Summary
Acetyl Sh-Oligopeptide-77 Amide is mainly a skin conditioning peptide that boosts surface hydration and supports a stronger moisture barrier by mimicking natural skin fragments that bind water. Its small size helps it absorb easily where it can attract and hold moisture, leaving skin softer, smoother and more resilient.
While not as famous as blockbuster peptides like Matrixyl or copper tripeptide, it is quietly gaining traction in niche hydrating serums, eye creams and sheet masks because formulators appreciate its stability and gentle profile.
Current research and user reports show it is safe for most skin types with very low risk of irritation when used in typical cosmetic concentrations. As with any new skincare ingredient, doing a quick patch test before full-face application is a smart way to rule out unexpected sensitivity.