What Is Bis-Sh-Pentapeptide-38 Porphyra 334?
Bis-sh-Pentapeptide-38 Porphyra 334 is a lab-made blend that brings together a skin-firming pentapeptide and Porphyra 334, a natural UV-absorbing molecule found in red algae. By bonding the two, chemists created a single ingredient that pairs the collagen-boosting signal of the peptide with the sun-shielding power of the algae compound. The peptide portion is built through solid-phase peptide synthesis, a step-by-step process that strings amino acids together in a controlled way. Porphyra 334 is isolated from red seaweed, purified, then attached to the peptide under carefully monitored lab conditions. This hybrid first appeared in premium anti-aging skincare a little over a decade ago, as brands searched for multitasking actives that could both protect and repair. Today you will spot it in eye creams, firming serums, daily moisturizers with SPF, after-sun lotions, sheet masks and high-end sunscreens where extra antioxidant support is a selling point.
Bis-Sh-Pentapeptide-38 Porphyra 334’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In a formula, Bis-sh-Pentapeptide-38 Porphyra 334 plays several helpful roles
- Antioxidant – mops up damaging free radicals created by UV light and pollution which helps keep skin looking smoother and more even-toned
- Light Stabilizer – protects other light-sensitive ingredients in the product so the formula stays effective longer while also guarding skin from photo stress
- UV Filter – absorbs a portion of UV rays adding an extra layer of defense that complements primary sunscreen filters and supports daily broad-spectrum protection
Who Can Use Bis-Sh-Pentapeptide-38 Porphyra 334
This peptide-algae hybrid is generally well tolerated across the main skin types including normal, dry, oily and combination. Its lightweight profile and non-occlusive texture mean it will not clog pores so acne-prone users can usually apply it without worry. Sensitive skin often appreciates the soothing antioxidant action, though extremely reactive complexions should introduce any new active slowly.
The ingredient is synthesized in the lab using amino acids and a seaweed-derived molecule with no animal by-products so it fits vegan and vegetarian lifestyles.
No data suggest a specific risk for people who are pregnant or breastfeeding; still, this is not medical advice and anyone expecting or nursing should run the product past a qualified health professional before adding it to a routine.
Because Bis-sh-Pentapeptide-38 Porphyra 334 absorbs some UV light it does not increase photosensitivity and may actually offer a small supportive shield, though it never replaces a high-SPF sunscreen.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Bis-sh-Pentapeptide-38 Porphyra 334 differ from person to person. The points below outline potential side effects yet most users will not experience them when the ingredient is correctly formulated and used as directed.
- Mild redness or warmth
- Tingling or stinging on very sensitive skin
- Temporary dryness if paired with strong exfoliants or retinoids
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis marked by itching or small bumps
- Eye irritation if the product migrates too close to the lash line
If any irritation, swelling or rash develops discontinue use and seek guidance from a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0/5
Bis-sh-Pentapeptide-38 Porphyra 334 is a small, water-soluble molecule that contains no heavy oils, waxes or fatty acids that could block pores. It is typically used at low concentrations and has a lightweight, non-occlusive texture so it sits on the skin without trapping sebum or dead cells.
Suitable for acne-prone and breakout-prone skin.
The ingredient is often paired with gel or serum bases that are already formulated for clarity which further limits any pore-clogging risk.
Summary
Bis-sh-Pentapeptide-38 Porphyra 334 delivers three key benefits: antioxidant defense that neutralizes free radicals, UV filtering that absorbs a slice of incoming rays and light-stabilizing support that keeps other actives potent. The peptide half signals skin to ramp up collagen while the Porphyra 334 half soaks up UV, giving a dual repair-protect action in one hit.
Though not yet a household name it has gained steady traction in premium serums and sunscreens where brands look for ingredients that multitask without weighing down the formula.
Overall safety data show a low irritation profile for most users with minimal pore-clogging risk. As with any new skincare ingredient perform a small patch test first to confirm personal compatibility.