What Is Sh-Polypeptide-97?
Sh-Polypeptide-97 is a lab-engineered version of LIN28A, a protein naturally found in the human body and known for its role in cell development and repair. Cosmetic chemists reproduce the peptide through recombinant DNA technology: a harmless strain of bacteria or yeast is given the genetic code for LIN28A, the microorganisms then produce the peptide during fermentation, and the finished ingredient is isolated, filtered and carefully purified. Interest in bio-identical peptides grew in the early 2000s when brands began looking for actives that could signal youthful activity in skin without irritation, which led to Sh-Polypeptide-97 making its debut in advanced anti-aging formulas. Today you will most often spot it in serums, sheet masks, moisturizers, eye creams and leave-on treatments that focus on strengthening the skin barrier and defending against daily stressors.
Sh-Polypeptide-97’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
The peptide’s main role in skincare is skin protecting. By reinforcing the natural barrier, it helps skin hold on to moisture, stay resilient against environmental stress and feel calmer overall. Formulators like to pair it with humectants and antioxidants to round out an everyday defense strategy, so products featuring Sh-Polypeptide-97 often leave skin softer, better hydrated and less prone to irritation.
Who Can Use Sh-Polypeptide-97
Thanks to its gentle, barrier-supporting nature Sh-Polypeptide-97 is considered suitable for most skin types. Dry, normal and combination skin often appreciate the added moisture retention while oily or acne-prone skin can use it because the peptide itself is lightweight and non-occlusive. Very reactive or allergy-prone skin should still watch for how the full formula is built, but the peptide alone is not known to trigger irritation.
The ingredient is produced through fermentation using bacteria or yeast, so no animal-derived material is involved. That makes it compatible with vegan and vegetarian lifestyles provided the finished product is certified cruelty free.
Current data does not flag any special risk for pregnant or breastfeeding women, but safety studies in these groups are limited. This article is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should run all skincare choices past a doctor just to be safe.
Sh-Polypeptide-97 does not increase photosensitivity. Standard daytime UV protection is still recommended as part of any good routine, yet you do not need extra precautions solely because of this peptide.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects from topical Sh-Polypeptide-97 can vary from person to person. The points below list potential reactions that could occur, though they are uncommon when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly.
- Mild redness or warmth
- Temporary itching
- Rare allergic rash if the user is sensitive to the preservative or another co-ingredient, not the peptide itself
- Eye stinging if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
If any of these reactions show up stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional or dermatologist.
Comedogenic Rating
Sh-Polypeptide-97 rates a 0 on the comedogenic scale. It is a water-soluble, low-molecular-weight peptide that does not form an occlusive film or add excess oil, so it will not clog pores on its own. This makes it suitable for skin that is prone to acne or breakouts. Formulas that include heavy oils, waxes or silicones could still cause congestion, so the overall ingredient list matters more than the peptide itself.
Summary
Sh-Polypeptide-97 is a bio-identical version of the LIN28A protein that helps protect skin by strengthening the barrier and improving moisture retention. It works by signaling skin cells to boost their own defensive functions, which leads to smoother, better hydrated, calmer skin over time.
While not as famous as hyaluronic acid or niacinamide it appears more often in new barrier-focused serums, masks and creams as brands look for gentle actives that deliver visible resilience.
Current research and user feedback label the peptide as very safe with low risk of irritation or comedogenicity. Still, skin can react unpredictably so it is smart to patch test any new product that features Sh-Polypeptide-97 before committing to full-face use.