What Is Acetyl Sh-Octapeptide-5 Oligopeptide-133 Cysteine Sp?
Acetyl Sh-Octapeptide-5 Oligopeptide-133 Cysteine Sp is a lab-crafted peptide blend that has been acetylated to improve its stability and skin affinity. The blend starts with three short chains of amino acids: sh-Octapeptide-5 Sp, Oligopeptide-133 and cysteine. Chemists link these peptides together then add an acetyl group to shield the molecule, helping it stay active when applied to skin.
Peptides first drew attention in cosmetics in the early 2000s for their ability to signal the skin to look and act younger. Since then researchers have designed ever more targeted sequences. This particular ingredient came out of that wave, offering a compact chain that is easy to include in modern water-based formulas.
Production happens entirely in controlled laboratory settings. Using solid-phase peptide synthesis, technicians build each amino acid one at a time, cleave the finished chain from its resin, purify it, join the three chains, add the acetyl group then run quality checks to confirm purity.
You will usually find Acetyl Sh-Octapeptide-5 Oligopeptide-133 Cysteine Sp in lightweight anti aging serums, eye creams, sheet masks, moisturizers and targeted treatments designed to firm skin or soften the look of fine lines.
Acetyl Sh-Octapeptide-5 Oligopeptide-133 Cysteine Sp’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient serves one main purpose in skincare formulas.
Skin conditioning: When applied topically the peptide helps the surface of the skin feel smoother and better hydrated. By supporting a healthy moisture balance it can leave the complexion looking plumper and more refreshed which in turn can blur the appearance of fine lines and give the skin a softer touch.
Who Can Use Acetyl Sh-Octapeptide-5 Oligopeptide-133 Cysteine Sp
This peptide is gentle enough for nearly all skin types. Dry, normal, oily and combination skin can benefit from its lightweight hydrating feel without worrying about heaviness or clogged pores. Sensitive skin usually tolerates it well since it lacks fragrance and common sensitizers, though anyone with a known allergy to peptides should proceed with caution.
The ingredient is made entirely by synthetic methods so it contains no animal by-products, making it suitable for both vegans and vegetarians. As always, cruelty-free status depends on the finished brand’s policies rather than the raw material itself.
No data suggest that topical use poses a risk for pregnant or breastfeeding women because the peptide is large and stays near the surface of the skin. This is not medical advice and anyone expecting or nursing should still review any skincare routine with a qualified healthcare professional.
Acetyl Sh-Octapeptide-5 Oligopeptide-133 Cysteine Sp does not increase photosensitivity so there is no special sun-related caution beyond the standard daily SPF recommendation.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to any cosmetic ingredient can differ from person to person. The effects listed below are potential outcomes and are not likely to occur for the average user when the product is well formulated.
- Temporary redness or flushing
- Mild stinging or tingling on application
- Localized itching
- Small bumps or a light rash indicating irritation or allergy
- Swelling in rare cases of peptide sensitivity
If you notice persistent discomfort or visible irritation while using this ingredient stop application and seek advice from a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 / 5 – non-comedogenic
Acetyl Sh-Octapeptide-5 Oligopeptide-133 Cysteine Sp is a water-soluble peptide with a large molecular size so it sits on the surface instead of working its way into pores. It contains no heavy oils or waxes that would trap sebum. Because of that chemistry the ingredient itself is very unlikely to clog pores or trigger blackheads.
Suitable for acne-prone and breakout-prone skin.
Keep in mind the overall formula still matters. If the peptide is delivered in a rich cream full of occlusive emollients the final product may feel heavier even though the peptide alone is pore friendly.
Summary
Acetyl Sh-Octapeptide-5 Oligopeptide-133 Cysteine Sp is a lab-made peptide blend that conditions skin by supporting surface hydration and giving a smoother plumper appearance. The added acetyl group boosts stability so the peptide can stay active throughout a product’s shelf life and during wear.
While not a household name like hyaluronic acid or retinol, it turns up in a growing number of modern serums and eye creams aimed at fine lines because formulators appreciate its gentle profile and easy compatibility with water-based systems.
Safety data show a low risk of irritation or pore blockage, making this peptide an easy add for most routines. As with any new skincare ingredient, do a quick patch test when trying a product that contains it just to be sure your skin agrees.