What Is Sr-Pectobacterium Polypeptide-1?
Sr-Pectobacterium Polypeptide-1 is a lab refined peptide originally isolated from Pectobacterium, a harmless soil bacterium known for producing pectate lyase enzymes that break down plant cell walls. Chemically it is a fraction of the larger pectate lyase B protein, trimmed and stabilized so it can sit comfortably in water based cosmetic formulas. What makes this peptide interesting to skin care makers is its gentle bioactive profile, which helps soften and condition the outer layer of skin without any scrubbing particles or strong acids.
The journey from soil microbe to face cream began in the early 2000s when researchers screened natural enzymes for their ability to smooth fruit surfaces during agricultural processing. A cosmetic chemist noticed that treated fruit skins retained moisture and looked glossier, so the team explored cosmetic use. To make the ingredient suitable for topical products, the gene that codes for pectate lyase B was inserted into a food grade fermentation microbe. Large stainless steel tanks now produce the peptide under controlled conditions, after which it is filtered, purified and blended with humectants or glycerin before shipment to formulators.
You will usually find Sr-Pectobacterium Polypeptide-1 tucked into hydrating sheet masks, lightweight serums, anti-aging moisturizers and soothing post-sun gels. Because it is water soluble and has a neutral scent, formulators like to pair it with hyaluronic acid, aloe or niacinamide to round out calming or plumping claims.
Sr-Pectobacterium Polypeptide-1’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In skin care formulas Sr-Pectobacterium Polypeptide-1 serves one core purpose: skin conditioning. By binding gently to the surface of the stratum corneum it helps hold water in place, leaving skin feeling smoother, softer and more flexible. Regular use can improve the look of fine texture variations and support a fresh, healthy glow without heaviness or residue.
Who Can Use Sr-Pectobacterium Polypeptide-1
Sr-Pectobacterium Polypeptide-1 is gentle enough for most skin types including normal, dry, oily and combination skin. Its light texture and water binding action mean it does not leave a heavy film that could bother oily or acne-prone users, yet it still adds comfort for those who are dry or sensitive. At this time no evidence suggests it is unsuitable for any specific skin type, though people with a known allergy to bacterial proteins should proceed with caution.
The peptide is produced through fermentation in a controlled lab setting with no animal-derived materials, so it is considered suitable for both vegetarians and vegans.
No data point to any risk for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when the ingredient is applied as directed in over-the-counter skin care. This is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should show the full product ingredient list to a qualified health professional before use just to be on the safe side.
Sr-Pectobacterium Polypeptide-1 does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and can be used morning or night without changing your sunscreen routine.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects or reactions to topical Sr-Pectobacterium Polypeptide-1 vary from person to person. The points below list potential issues, though most users will not experience any of them if the product is well made and used as directed.
- Mild redness or warmth right after application
- Itching or tightness in very sensitive skin
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis for those with a protein allergy
- Stinging when applied to broken or freshly irritated skin
If any of these effects occur stop using the product and seek advice from a health professional if symptoms persist or worsen.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 (non-comedogenic). Sr-Pectobacterium Polypeptide-1 is a small, water-soluble peptide with no oily or waxy carriers so it does not clog pores or sit heavily on the skin. It rinses away easily and leaves no film that could trap dead cells or sebum. This makes it a safe choice for people who are prone to acne or breakouts. Because it is typically used at low percentages in lightweight formulas the risk of pore blockage remains minimal even when layered with other products. The only time breakouts might occur is if the overall product is rich in comedogenic oils or butters, not because of this peptide itself.
Summary
Sr-Pectobacterium Polypeptide-1 is a lab-crafted fragment of a natural pectate lyase protein that acts mainly as a skin-conditioning agent. By binding to the outer layer of the skin it helps hold moisture, smooth texture and boost softness without exfoliating acids or physical scrubs. Its water solubility and neutral scent let formulators slip it into serums, masks and light creams aimed at hydration and post-sun care.
The peptide is still a niche ingredient compared with big names like hyaluronic acid, yet it is quietly gaining traction in K-beauty masks and indie hydrating gels thanks to its gentle feel and vegan-friendly production. Current safety data show it to be well tolerated across skin types with a very low allergy risk when used in standard cosmetic concentrations. As always, patch test any new product containing Sr-Pectobacterium Polypeptide-1 so you can be sure your skin agrees with the full formula.