What Is Methionyl Sh-Polypeptide-76 Decapeptide-40?
Methionyl Sh-Polypeptide-76 Decapeptide-40 is a lab made peptide blend created by linking two short protein fragments, Sh-Polypeptide-76 and Decapeptide-40, then starting the chain with the amino acid methionine. Scientists insert the custom DNA code for this fusion peptide into a harmless strain of E. coli, let the bacteria grow in stainless steel tanks, then harvest and purify the finished protein. The result is a single chain peptide that stays stable in water based formulas.
Peptides first grabbed the beauty world’s attention in the 1990s for their firming and smoothing abilities. As research advanced, brands began tailoring peptides to do more than boost collagen. Methionyl Sh-Polypeptide-76 Decapeptide-40 entered the scene as part of this next wave, offering targeted antioxidant support in a smaller, more skin friendly size.
You will usually see this ingredient in serums, sheet masks, eye creams, lightweight moisturizers and high strength anti aging concentrates. Formulators like it because it dissolves easily, pairs well with hydrators such as hyaluronic acid and plays nicely with most preservatives and thickeners.
Methionyl Sh-Polypeptide-76 Decapeptide-40’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This peptide is valued for one main action that can improve how a product cares for skin.
- Antioxidant: It helps neutralize free radicals created by sun exposure, pollution and everyday stress. By lowering this oxidative stress, the peptide can support a brighter, more even tone, help maintain collagen and reduce the look of early fine lines when used regularly.
Who Can Use Methionyl Sh-Polypeptide-76 Decapeptide-40
This peptide is lightweight and water based so it suits almost every skin type including oily, combination, normal and dry. Its mild nature means even sensitive skin often tolerates it well. Anyone with a known allergy to peptides or fermentation derived ingredients should be cautious, but such reactions are rare.
Because the peptide is produced in a plant free bacterial fermentation system and contains no animal by-products it is considered suitable for vegans and vegetarians.
There are no studies showing that Methionyl Sh-Polypeptide-76 Decapeptide-40 causes problems for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Still, data are limited and this is not medical advice. Expectant or nursing mothers should run any skincare routine by their doctor just to be safe.
The ingredient does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight. It actually gives a bit of antioxidant support against UV triggered free radicals, though daily sunscreen is still essential.
It layers well under makeup and can be paired with most common actives such as niacinamide and vitamin C without stability issues.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Methionyl Sh-Polypeptide-76 Decapeptide-40 differ from person to person. The points below list potential problems that could occur, yet most users will not notice any of them when the ingredient is correctly formulated.
- Transient redness or warmth right after application
- Mild itching or tingling in very sensitive skin
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis presenting as rash or swelling
- Increased irritation if applied to skin already compromised by aggressive exfoliation or retinoids
- Stinging around the eye area if the formula is not properly buffered
If any persistent irritation or adverse reaction develops stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0/5
Methionyl Sh-Polypeptide-76 Decapeptide-40 is a small water soluble peptide that does not contain heavy oils, waxes or fatty alcohols known to clog pores. It sits lightly on the skin and rinses away cleanly during cleansing which keeps it from building up inside pores. Because it is non occlusive and does not alter sebum flow it earns a true zero on the comedogenic scale.
Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin.
Formulas that pair this peptide with richer emollients or silicones could shift the overall product’s pore-clogging potential, so check the full ingredient list if you are highly clog-conscious.
Summary
Methionyl Sh-Polypeptide-76 Decapeptide-40 works mainly as an antioxidant, mopping up free radicals from UV rays, pollution and everyday stress before they can dull skin or weaken collagen. Its lab designed structure keeps it stable in water based formulas and small enough to sit comfortably on the skin’s surface where it can get to work.
While peptides as a category are well known this specific fusion peptide is still a niche pick found mostly in forward-thinking serums, sheet masks and eye products rather than mainstream drugstore shelves. Brands that do use it like its gentle profile and compatibility with other actives.
Current research and user feedback label it as low risk for irritation, sensitization or pore clogging when formulated correctly. Still every skin is different so patch testing any new product that contains Methionyl Sh-Polypeptide-76 Decapeptide-40 is a smart move before working it into your daily lineup.