What Is Sh-Polypeptide-7?
Sh-Polypeptide-7 is a lab made version of a small part of human growth hormone. Scientists copy the part of the human gene that tells the body how to make this protein then place that copy into friendly E. coli bacteria. During fermentation the bacteria turn the gene into a chain of up to 217 amino acids, the same building blocks found in our own skin proteins. After the peptide is harvested it is carefully filtered and purified to remove any bacterial material.
The idea of using growth hormone–like fragments in skin care started in the late 1990s when researchers looked for ways to send “youth” signals to aging skin without using full hormones. As peptide technology improved cosmetic chemists found they could create short, safe chains that coach the skin to act healthier. Sh-Polypeptide-7 entered commercial formulas in the early 2010s once large-scale fermentation became reliable and cost-effective.
You will most often spot this ingredient in lightweight serums, oil-control moisturizers, sheet masks, anti-aging concentrates and leave-on spot treatments that target shiny or stressed skin.
Sh-Polypeptide-7’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Formulators pick Sh-Polypeptide-7 because it tackles two common skin concerns at once.
- Anti-Sebum: Helps lower excess oil production which can reduce midday shine and the greasy feel of the skin. This makes makeup last longer and can help pores look smaller.
- Skin Protecting: Supports the skin’s natural barrier by boosting protein renewal so skin holds on to water better and feels less irritated by pollution or harsh weather.
Who Can Use Sh-Polypeptide-7
This peptide suits most skin types, especially normal, combination and oily skin that struggle with midday shine. Dry or very sensitive skin can still use it but may want to pair it with a richer moisturizer because many oil-control formulas are light on emollients. There are no known concerns for deeper skin tones or acne-prone skin.
Because it is fermented in E. coli with no animal-derived material, Sh-Polypeptide-7 is considered vegan and vegetarian friendly.
The peptide stays on the surface of the skin and is not thought to enter the bloodstream, so it is generally viewed as low risk for pregnant or breastfeeding women. That said, this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should have their doctor review any skincare they plan to use.
Sh-Polypeptide-7 does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and can be used morning or night without increasing the need for sunscreen, though daily sun protection is always wise. It also plays well with common actives like niacinamide, salicylic acid and vitamin C.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Sh-Polypeptide-7 differ from person to person. The issues listed below are potential effects only and are unlikely for most users when the product is well-formulated.
- Mild redness or stinging immediately after application
- Localized dryness or flaking on very dry skin
- Rare allergic reaction such as hives, itching or swelling
- Breakouts if the overall formula is heavy or occlusive
If any unwanted reaction occurs stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 / 5
Sh-Polypeptide-7 is a large water-soluble protein fragment that does not clog pores because it has no oily or waxy parts. It sits on the skin surface, rinses away easily and is typically used at very low percentages so it does not add any occlusive load to a formula. For these reasons it earns a solid zero on the comedogenic scale.
That makes it a safe pick for people who are prone to acne or frequent breakouts.
The comedogenic impact of the finished product will depend on the other ingredients present, especially emollients or heavy silicones, so check the full ingredient list if congestion is a concern.
Summary
Sh-Polypeptide-7 is a lab crafted peptide that helps keep skin balanced and resilient. It talks to the sebaceous glands so they dial down excess oil then supports barrier proteins so skin stays hydrated and less reactive to environmental stress.
While not as famous as peptides that target wrinkles its oil control benefit has won it a spot in select serums, mattifying moisturizers and K-beauty sheet masks, especially in products aimed at combination or oily skin.
Current safety data shows a very low risk of irritation or systemic absorption which makes it suitable for most users including vegans and those with sensitive or acne-prone skin. Still, everyone’s skin is unique so it is wise to patch test any new product that contains this peptide before applying it to the entire face.