What Is Acetyl Sh-Tripeptide-3 Amide?
Acetyl Sh-Tripeptide-3 Amide is a lab-crafted peptide made by attaching an acetyl group to a short chain of three amino acids whose tail end has been converted to an amide. This slight tweak helps the peptide stay stable and compatible with skin care formulas. The core tripeptide sequence is inspired by fragments of proteins naturally found in the skin, so it can communicate well with the skin’s surface.
The ingredient gained popularity in the early 2000s when cosmetic chemists began exploring bio-mimetic peptides as gentler options for improving skin texture. As research advanced, manufacturers learned how to produce these peptides through controlled fermentation or solid-phase synthesis, followed by purification and acetylation. The finished material is a white to off-white powder that dissolves easily in water-based solutions, making it simple to add late in the production process.
Today you will spot Acetyl Sh-Tripeptide-3 Amide in a range of leave-on products including anti-aging serums, firming face creams, lightweight lotions, targeted eye treatments and sheet masks. Brands favor it because it mixes well with other actives, needs only a small dose to work and is gentle enough for daily use.
Acetyl Sh-Tripeptide-3 Amide’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This peptide’s main role in skin care is as a skin conditioning agent, meaning it helps the skin look and feel better overall. By supporting a smoother surface and a more even feel it can give formulas a noticeable soft-focus finish, leaving skin feeling supple and refreshed after application.
Who Can Use Acetyl Sh-Tripeptide-3 Amide
This peptide is considered gentle and fits well into routines for dry, normal, combination and oily skin. Even sensitive skin generally tolerates it because it is non exfoliating and has a neutral pH. The only group that might need extra caution is anyone with a known allergy to peptides or preservatives often paired with them.
The material is made through lab synthesis and contains no animal by-products, so it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians.
Current data shows no specific risks for pregnant or breastfeeding women. That said, research on cosmetic peptides in these groups is limited, so this information is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should check with a healthcare professional before adding a new product to their routine.
Acetyl Sh-Tripeptide-3 Amide does not increase photosensitivity, so it can be used morning or night. Standard daytime sun protection is still recommended to guard against everyday UV damage.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Acetyl Sh-Tripeptide-3 Amide differ from person to person. The points below outline potential side effects, yet most users will not notice any problems when the ingredient is formulated and used as directed.
- Mild redness or warmth at the application site
- Temporary itching or tingling
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis presenting as persistent rash or swelling
- Stinging if applied to broken or heavily irritated skin
- Ingredient instability when mixed with very strong acids or bases, which could lead to product separation and skin discomfort
If any of the above reactions occur, stop use and seek advice from a healthcare professional or pharmacist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 / 5. Acetyl Sh-Tripeptide-3 Amide is a small, water-soluble peptide with no oily or waxy components so it does not block pores or create the sticky film often linked to breakouts. Its lightweight nature means it rinses away or absorbs without leaving residue, making it a non-comedogenic choice in virtually any formula.
Because of this low rating, the ingredient is generally suitable for those prone to acne or congestion. If a product containing it happens to trigger blemishes the culprit is more likely another component such as heavy emollients or fragrances.
One point worth noting is that peptides rely on a clean, balanced base to stay stable. When they are housed in overly rich creams the overall formula—not the peptide itself—can become pore-clogging for very oily or acne-prone skin.
Summary
Acetyl Sh-Tripeptide-3 Amide is primarily a skin-conditioning peptide that helps the surface feel smoother and look more refined. By mimicking natural protein fragments it can signal skin to maintain a healthier texture and improved suppleness, which translates to a soft-focus finish in daily use.
While not the most famous player in skin care it has carved out a solid niche in firming serums, eye creams and lightweight moisturizers because brands appreciate its stability, low use level and compatibility with other actives.
Current research and consumer reports point to a high safety profile with only rare irritation. As with any new cosmetic ingredient a quick patch test is a smart way to confirm personal tolerance before fully incorporating a product into your routine.