What Is Rh-Polypeptide-31?
Rh-Polypeptide-31 is a lab made version of a small human protein related to Insulin-Like Growth Factor 2. Scientists copy the IGF-2 gene from a human cell then place it inside harmless E. coli bacteria. During controlled fermentation the bacteria turn that gene into a single chain peptide made of up to 180 standard amino acids. After fermentation the peptide is filtered, purified and carefully checked so the final material is free of bacterial leftovers and safe for skin use. Because the process happens in tanks instead of using animal sources it is consistent, vegan friendly and less likely to cause impurities.
Peptides first gained attention in skin care during the early 2000s when brands looked for gentler ways to support the skin’s own repair signals. Rh-Polypeptide-31 followed as labs became better at producing longer, more stable chains that could stay active in creams and serums. Today the ingredient can be found in anti aging serums, barrier supporting moisturizers, sheet masks, eye creams and post treatment soothing gels.
Rh-Polypeptide-31’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In a topical formula Rh-Polypeptide-31 offers two main skin benefits.
- Antimicrobial: Helps keep the product itself fresher by limiting the growth of unwanted bacteria once the jar or tube is opened. A cleaner formula can also lower the chance of blemish-causing microbes sitting on the skin surface.
- Skin protecting: Forms a light film and signals the skin to strengthen its own barrier proteins. This can ease redness, support moisture retention and improve overall resilience against daily stressors like pollution and dry air.
Who Can Use Rh-Polypeptide-31
Most skin types can use Rh-Polypeptide-31 without trouble. Its lightweight peptide structure sits well on dry, normal, combination and even oily complexions because it is non greasy and unlikely to clog pores. Sensitive skin generally tolerates it too thanks to its gentle, barrier supporting action, but anyone with a known allergy to peptides or ferment derived ingredients should proceed with caution.
The peptide is produced in a controlled bacterial fermentation that does not involve any animal tissue, making it suitable for vegans and vegetarians. Every step from gene synthesis to purification is carried out in a lab setting so the final ingredient is entirely animal free.
No specific warnings exist for use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Still, out of an abundance of caution pregnant or nursing women should show any product containing Rh-Polypeptide-31 to their healthcare provider before adding it to a routine. This information is not medical advice.
Rh-Polypeptide-31 does not increase photosensitivity, so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. Standard daytime sunscreen habits are still recommended for overall skin health.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Rh-Polypeptide-31 differ from person to person. The points below list potential side effects that could occur, but they remain uncommon when the ingredient is correctly formulated and used as directed.
- Mild redness or warmth
- Temporary stinging or tingling on application
- Itchiness in very sensitive skin
- Localized swelling indicative of an allergic response
- Contact dermatitis triggered by a preservative or other co-ingredient rather than the peptide itself
If any of these reactions appear stop using the product and consult a qualified healthcare professional for guidance.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 out of 5
Rh-Polypeptide-31 is a large water-soluble peptide that neither melts into skin oil nor leaves a greasy residue. It contains no fatty chains or waxes known to obstruct pores so it sits at the very bottom of the comedogenic scale.
This makes it suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts.
Keep in mind the overall pore friendliness of a product also depends on the other ingredients in the formula so it is wise to scan the full list if congestion is a concern.
Summary
Rh-Polypeptide-31 is a lab crafted version of a small human protein that helps skin care formulas in two ways: it curbs unwanted microbes to keep the product fresh and it boosts the skin’s own barrier by forming a light protective film and signaling cells to reinforce themselves. Because of these benefits it shows up in soothing serums barrier creams and post procedure gels yet it remains more of an insider peptide than a household name.
Overall it scores high on safety. Produced through controlled fermentation it is vegan friendly and has a low likelihood of irritation when used at cosmetic levels. As with any new product it is best to do a quick patch test before applying over larger areas just to play it safe.