What Is S-Rice Polypeptide-2?
S-Rice Polypeptide-2 is a lab made copy of a natural rice protein known as 40S ribosomal protein S15 from Oryza sativa. The peptide chain holds up to 154 amino acids that may form disulfide bonds or carry small sugar groups, giving it the same structure found in the original plant protein. By recreating the sequence with the 20 standard amino acids, chemists can control purity and stability while avoiding crop variability.
The technology behind this ingredient stems from advances in peptide synthesis that became widespread in the early 2000s. Once researchers noticed that rice proteins help keep the plant’s cells firm and hydrated, formulators began exploring shorter peptide fragments for skin care. S-Rice Polypeptide-2 emerged as one of the most promising because its single chain is easy to reproduce at scale using solid-phase synthesis, followed by precise purification steps.
Today you will most often find S-Rice Polypeptide-2 in moisturizing creams, anti-aging serums, sheet masks and leave-on treatments aimed at boosting skin softness and resilience. Brands favor it because it mixes well with water-based formulas, holds up under normal pH ranges and pairs smoothly with common humectants and botanical extracts.
S-Rice Polypeptide-2’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
S-Rice Polypeptide-2 is prized for one main role in skin care.
Skin conditioning: The peptide helps skin feel smoother and look more supple. By sitting on the surface and attracting light moisture, it supports a soft touch and can reduce the tight sensation linked to dryness. Over time consistent use may give the complexion a fresher, well-rested appearance.
Who Can Use S-Rice Polypeptide-2
S-Rice Polypeptide-2 is gentle enough for most skin types including dry, normal, combination, oily and sensitive complexions because it conditions without heavy oils or irritating actives. People with very reactive or allergy-prone skin can usually tolerate it, though they should still keep an eye on any added fragrance or preservatives in the final formula.
The peptide is produced entirely by synthetic methods that copy a rice protein, so no animal material is involved. This makes it suitable for vegans and vegetarians as long as the finished product also avoids animal derived fillers or waxes.
No specific warnings exist for pregnant or breastfeeding women, and the ingredient is not known to enter the bloodstream in meaningful amounts. That said this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should run any skincare product past a doctor just to be on the safe side.
S-Rice Polypeptide-2 does not cause photosensitivity, so it can be used morning or night without raising the skin’s sensitivity to sunlight. It also plays well with common actives like niacinamide, hyaluronic acid and gentle exfoliating acids because it is stable across a typical pH range of 4 to 8.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical S-Rice Polypeptide-2 vary from person to person. The points below cover potential side effects that could occur, though they remain uncommon when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly in cosmetics.
- Mild redness or warmth – usually short lived and linked to overall product formulation rather than the peptide itself
- Itching or stinging – more likely if skin is already compromised or if the product contains additional irritants
- Contact dermatitis – rare but possible for individuals with a specific sensitivity to rice proteins or certain preservatives
- Allergic reaction – very uncommon yet can manifest as swelling hives or intense itching especially in people with a known rice allergy
If any of these reactions occur stop using the product and seek guidance from a medical professional if symptoms do not calm quickly.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0/5 – S-Rice Polypeptide-2 is a lightweight, water-soluble peptide that does not leave an oily film or clog pores. It sits on the surface to condition rather than penetrating deep into sebaceous follicles, so it earns the lowest comedogenic score.
Because of this low rating, the ingredient is generally considered suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin.
No data suggest it interferes with sebum flow or bacterial balance, and it can be combined with common acne actives like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide without raising the risk of congestion.
Summary
S-Rice Polypeptide-2 is a lab crafted copy of a rice protein used mainly for skin conditioning. By forming a thin moisture-attracting layer, it helps skin feel smoother, look more supple and maintain a comfortable hydration level. Its water solubility and neutral charge let it blend easily into lotions, serums and masks without affecting texture or pH.
The peptide is still a niche addition compared with heavy hitters like hyaluronic acid or niacinamide, yet formulators appreciate its stability and vegan origin so its presence is slowly growing in modern hydration focused products.
Overall safety data show a very low risk of irritation, allergy or pore blockage making it a gentle choice for most users. As with any new cosmetic ingredient, give your skin a quick patch test when trying a product that contains S-Rice Polypeptide-2 to confirm personal tolerance.