Sh-Decapeptide-1 Sr-Pineapple Stem Bromelain: What Is It, Cosmetic Uses, Benefits & Side Effects

Curious about this ingredient? In this article we're explaining exactly what it is and why it's used within cosmetic formulations.
Updated on: June 30, 2025
Share:
Inside this article:

We verify all information on this page using publicly available nomenclature standards from The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), the European Commission's CosIng database and documentation provided directly by ingredient manufacturers. Our analysis is based on technical data from these sources to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Sh-Decapeptide-1 Sr-Pineapple Stem Bromelain?

Sh-Decapeptide-1 Sr-Pineapple Stem Bromelain is a lab made fusion peptide that blends two well known molecules: sh-Decapeptide-1, a skin brightening peptide, and a fragment of bromelain, an enzyme naturally found in pineapple stems. Scientists stitch together the genes that code for each part, place the combined gene into a friendly strain of E. coli, then let the bacteria grow in large tanks. The microbes act like tiny factories, churning out the 222–amino acid chain. After fermentation, the peptide is isolated, purified and tested for safety before it reaches cosmetic labs.

This ingredient emerged from efforts to pair the gentle exfoliating talent of bromelain with the tone evening power of decapeptides. Early laboratory work showed that linking the two created a stable, water-soluble peptide that could sit comfortably in creams and serums. It entered the cosmetic scene in the past decade as brands looked for multitasking actives that feel mild yet perform well.

You will most often spot Sh-Decapeptide-1 Sr-Pineapple Stem Bromelain in brightening serums, anti-aging moisturizers, sheet masks and targeted spot treatments. Because it is water based and has a light molecular weight, formulators can slot it into gels, lotions or even misting essences.

Sh-Decapeptide-1 Sr-Pineapple Stem Bromelain’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

The ingredient carries one official function in personal care formulas, yet that single role brings several visible perks for skin.

Skin conditioning: By supporting a smoother surface and keeping moisture close, Sh-Decapeptide-1 Sr-Pineapple Stem Bromelain helps skin look softer, brighter and more even in tone. The decapeptide portion is known to temper excess melanin activity that can lead to dark spots while the bromelain fragment offers mild keratolytic action that refines texture without harsh scrubbing. Together they leave skin feeling supple and refreshed.

Who Can Use Sh-Decapeptide-1 Sr-Pineapple Stem Bromelain

This peptide-enzyme hybrid is gentle enough for most skin types including dry, oily, combination and mature skin. Its water-based format and light texture mean it will not clog pores or leave a heavy film. Sensitive or barrier-impaired complexions may still enjoy it, yet they should opt for lower concentrations at first because any exfoliating action can feel a bit active on compromised skin.

The ingredient is created in a fermentation tank using bacteria rather than animal tissue so it meets vegan and vegetarian standards.

No formal warnings exist for pregnant or breastfeeding women. Even so data is limited, so this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should clear the formula with their doctor to be safe.

Sh-Decapeptide-1 Sr-Pineapple Stem Bromelain does not increase photosensitivity and can be used morning or night. It plays well with hydrating agents and mild brighteners though stacking it with strong acids or retinoids on the same night may raise the odds of irritation for sensitive users.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Reactions to topical Sh-Decapeptide-1 Sr-Pineapple Stem Bromelain vary from person to person. The points below list potential side effects that could occur, yet most users will not run into them when the ingredient is used at normal cosmetic levels.

  • Mild tingling or warmth during the first few minutes of application
  • Dryness or light flaking if layered with other exfoliants too often
  • Itching or small bumps in individuals allergic to pineapple enzymes
  • Stinging when applied to freshly shaved or broken skin
  • Eye irritation if the product migrates too close to the lash line

If any of these issues occur stop using the product and seek advice from a qualified health professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0/5 (non-comedogenic). Sh-Decapeptide-1 Sr-Pineapple Stem Bromelain is a water based peptide with no heavy oils waxes or fatty acids that could lodge inside pores. Its light molecular weight and quick absorption mean it sits on the surface long enough to do its job then wears away without leaving residue that might block follicles.

Because of this low clogging risk it is generally suitable for people who are prone to acne or frequent breakouts.

Remember that the full formula matters. If a product pairs this peptide with rich butters or thick silicones the overall texture could still feel heavy on oily skin even though the peptide itself is pore friendly.

Summary

Sh-Decapeptide-1 Sr-Pineapple Stem Bromelain conditions skin by teaming the melanin tempering action of a decapeptide with the gentle exfoliating polish of a bromelain fragment. The combo encourages a brighter more even tone, smoother texture and a soft hydrated feel.

It is a relative newcomer so you will mainly see it in niche brightening serums and K-beauty style essences rather than mass market moisturizers but its popularity is growing as brands look for multitasking actives that stay mild.

Current safety data and real world use show it to be well tolerated for most people with a very low chance of irritation or clogged pores. As with any new active it is wise to patch test a product containing this ingredient before applying it widely just to be on the safe side.

Was this article helpful?
More from Glooshi:
ADVERTISEMENT
Get all our top headlines in beauty.
Delivered right to your inbox each week. Zero spam, all goodness, opt-out at anytime.
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Get the latest beauty news, top product recommendations & brand-exclusive discount codes direct to your inbox.
Send good feedback:

All feedback is greatly appreciated, anonymous, and will be used to improve the quality of our articles.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Send bad feedback:

All feedback is greatly appreciated, anonymous, and will be used to improve the quality of our articles.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Search