What Is Sh-Oligopeptide-106 Sp?
Sh-Oligopeptide-106 Sp is a lab-made fragment of the human collagen type III protein. Chemists synthesize a chain of 48 amino acids that mirrors a small stretch of the much larger collagen alpha-1(III) chain found naturally in skin. By building it piece by piece through solid-phase peptide synthesis, they ensure the sequence is pure, stable and free of animal or human-derived material. This precision lets formulators tap into a key signaling portion of collagen without the variability that comes with extracts.
The peptide entered cosmetic labs in the late 2000s, when advances in automated peptide synthesizers made longer chains affordable for skincare. Researchers noticed that short collagen-mimicking sequences could prompt skin cells to behave as if more collagen were present, so suppliers began offering them to brands developing firming or rejuvenating products. Today Sh-Oligopeptide-106 Sp appears in anti-aging serums, sheet masks, eye creams, lightweight moisturizers and post-procedure soothing gels where a boost in skin resilience is desired.
Sh-Oligopeptide-106 Sp’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This peptide is classified as a skin conditioning ingredient, meaning it is added to formulas to help skin feel and look healthier.
By mimicking a portion of collagen, Sh-Oligopeptide-106 Sp can encourage skin cells to support their own extracellular matrix. In a finished product this translates to a smoother surface, a plumper appearance and improved comfort, especially in formulas targeting early signs of aging or recovering skin.
Who Can Use Sh-Oligopeptide-106 Sp
This peptide is gentle and light, making it suitable for dry, normal, combination and even oily skin that needs a boost in firmness or comfort. Sensitive skin usually tolerates it well because it is free of fragrance and common irritants. Those with active inflammatory conditions like severe eczema or open lesions may want to wait until skin is calm before adding any new peptide to avoid stinging.
Because Sh-Oligopeptide-106 Sp is made fully in the lab and contains no animal sourced material, products using it are normally considered vegan and vegetarian friendly. Always check the complete ingredient list to confirm the rest of the formula meets personal standards.
Current research shows no specific issues for pregnant or breastfeeding women when this peptide is applied topically. Still, this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should review all skincare products with a doctor first just to be safe.
The ingredient does not increase photosensitivity, so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. Standard daily sunscreen is still important for overall skin health.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Sh-Oligopeptide-106 Sp can vary from person to person. The points below cover potential side effects but most users will not experience them when the peptide is formulated and used correctly.
- Redness or mild irritation
- Temporary itching or tingling at the application site
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to the peptide sequence or other formula components
- Breakouts if used in a product that contains heavy occlusive ingredients not suited to acne prone skin
If any of these reactions occur discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist or worsen.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 out of 5. Sh-Oligopeptide-106 Sp is a small, water-soluble peptide that does not form a film or leave an oily residue on skin, so it has no tendency to clog pores on its own. Its molecular size keeps it from sitting inside pores and it lacks fatty acids or waxes that typically trigger comedones.
Because of this, it is considered suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin when used in lightweight formulations. As always the overall formula matters, so people should look at the full ingredient list to ensure there are no heavy occlusives that could counteract the peptide’s low comedogenicity.
Summary
Sh-Oligopeptide-106 Sp is a lab-made fragment of collagen type III that conditions skin by signaling cells to support their own collagen network. This can lead to a smoother surface, a plumper look and better overall comfort.
The peptide is still niche compared with long-standing actives like retinol and vitamin C, yet its presence is growing in serums, sheet masks and post-procedure products as brands search for gentle firming options.
Safety data show it is non-irritating for most users and completely free of animal material. Side effects are rare and usually mild. Even so, when trying any new product it is smart to patch test first to make sure your skin agrees with the full formula.