What Is Sh-Polypeptide-133?
Sh-Polypeptide-133 is a lab made copy of a human protein segment created by inserting a synthetic version of the telomerase reverse transcriptase gene into friendly strains of E. coli. During fermentation the bacteria act like tiny factories, building a single chain peptide of up to 1132 amino acids that mirrors the natural sequence found in our bodies. After the growth phase the mixture is filtered and the peptide is carefully purified so only the desired protein remains, sometimes carrying small links called disulfide bonds or sugar groups known as glycosylation.
Peptides have been popular in skin care since the early 2000s for their ability to signal repair and defend against stress. Sh-Polypeptide-133 entered the scene as biotechnology improved, allowing brands to harness larger and more complex peptides that were once too costly to make. As a result it now appears in high performance products aimed at supporting youthful looking skin.
You are most likely to see Sh-Polypeptide-133 in concentrated serums, anti aging creams, sheet masks, eye treatments, soothing after sun gels and rich moisturizers that promise to protect skin from daily stress.
Sh-Polypeptide-133’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
When added to a skin care formula Sh-Polypeptide-133 works in two key ways:
- Antioxidant: Helps neutralize free radicals formed by UV light, pollution and other external stress. This can reduce the look of dullness and help keep skin tone more even over time
- Skin protecting: Supports the skin’s natural barrier, making it more resilient against dryness and irritation while helping maintain a smooth supple feel
Who Can Use Sh-Polypeptide-133
Because it is a large, bio-engineered peptide with soothing and barrier supporting properties, Sh-Polypeptide-133 is generally considered suitable for most skin types including normal, dry, combination, oily and sensitive. Those with very reactive or compromised skin should still approach new formulas cautiously but the peptide itself is non-sensitising in the vast majority of tests.
The ingredient is fermented in E. coli and contains no animal derived material so it aligns with vegan and vegetarian preferences.
No specific contraindications have been reported for pregnant or breastfeeding women, yet this information does not replace medical advice. Anyone who is expecting or nursing should show the full ingredient list of any product to their healthcare provider before use just to be safe.
Sh-Polypeptide-133 does not make skin more prone to sunburn and can be used morning or night without increasing photosensitivity.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to any cosmetic ingredient can differ from one person to another. The following is a list of potential side effects linked to topical use of Sh-Polypeptide-133, though they are uncommon when the finished product is well formulated.
- Mild redness or warmth
- Temporary itching or stinging immediately after application
- Dry or tight feeling if the formula lacks adequate emollients
- Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to peptides or preservatives in the product
- Interaction irritation when layered with very low pH exfoliating acids or high strength retinoids
If any discomfort persists stop using the product and seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional or dermatologist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0/5
Sh-Polypeptide-133 is a water-soluble peptide with no oily or waxy components and no tendency to clog pores. Its large molecular size keeps it on the skin’s surface rather than migrating into sebaceous follicles where breakouts start. For these reasons it is considered non-comedogenic and is generally suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin. Because the peptide is often delivered in lightweight serums or gel-creams, the finished products that contain it also tend to be friendly to blemish-prone complexions. Only the other ingredients in a formula—such as heavy butters or rich oils—would change that assessment.
Summary
Sh-Polypeptide-133 is a lab crafted copy of human telomerase reverse transcriptase that offers two main benefits in skin care: it helps neutralise free radicals, acting as an antioxidant, and it supports the skin barrier for a stronger, smoother feel. It performs these roles by sitting on the surface of the skin, binding moisture, and signalling repair mechanisms that reinforce the outer layer. While not yet a household name, its presence is growing in high-end anti-ageing serums and masks as brands look for next-generation biotech actives.
The peptide is considered very safe for topical use, showing low irritation and zero comedogenicity in most tests. As with any new cosmetic ingredient it is wise to patch test a product first to confirm personal tolerance, especially for those with sensitive or reactive skin.