What Is Barley Hexapeptide-40 Sh-Polypeptide-13?
Barley Hexapeptide-40 sh-Polypeptide-13 is a lab designed fusion peptide built from two smaller chains, Hexapeptide-40 and sh-Polypeptide-13. The gene that codes for this 211-amino-acid protein is placed into barley plants, either temporarily or as a stable part of the plant’s DNA, so the barley acts like a tiny factory that turns sunlight and nutrients into the finished peptide. Once the plants mature the peptide is extracted, purified and checked to make sure its amino acid sequence is intact and that any natural disulfide bonds or sugar attachments are consistent and safe for skin use.
Interest in plant made peptides grew in the early 2000s when brands looked for gentle bio-identical actives that avoided animal sources. Barley proved ideal because it is hardy, easy to grow and already used in food production. As peptide technology advanced, formulators discovered that combining small signal peptides with supportive carrier segments could improve stability on the skin. This led to the first commercial use of Barley Hexapeptide-40 sh-Polypeptide-13 in premium anti-aging creams and targeted serums.
Today you will most often spot this ingredient in wrinkle smoothing serums, firming eye creams, sheet masks, lightweight moisturizers and booster drops designed to layer under a regular routine. Its main job is to condition the skin so it feels softer, looks more even and holds moisture better.
Barley Hexapeptide-40 Sh-Polypeptide-13’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In formulas this peptide plays one clear role that brings several visible perks for the user.
As a skin-conditioning agent Barley Hexapeptide-40 sh-Polypeptide-13 helps improve the skin’s softness, suppleness and overall feel. Regular use can leave the surface smoother, support a healthier moisture barrier and give a fresher appearance which is why brands include it in products aimed at reducing signs of fatigue or early aging.
Who Can Use Barley Hexapeptide-40 Sh-Polypeptide-13
This peptide is considered friendly for nearly all skin types including normal, dry, combination, oily and mature skin. It is lightweight and water based so it will not add greasiness, while its conditioning action helps reinforce dry or sensitive complexions. Those with highly reactive or barrier-impaired skin may still want to introduce it slowly since any new active can potentially cause a flare-up if the skin is already inflamed.
Because the peptide is harvested from barley plants rather than animal tissue, products containing it are generally suitable for vegans and vegetarians. Formulators pair it with plant derived preservatives and stabilizers in most modern lines but strict vegans should still double-check the full ingredient list for additives like beeswax or carmine that may sit elsewhere in the formula.
Current research shows no particular reason pregnant or breastfeeding women must avoid Barley Hexapeptide-40 sh-Polypeptide-13 when used topically. Its large molecular size keeps it close to the surface meaning systemic absorption is expected to be minimal. That said this information is educational only. Anyone expecting or nursing should run any skincare routine past a qualified healthcare provider to be safe.
The peptide does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight so it is not considered photosensitizing. Daily sunscreen is still important for overall skin health but there is no special sun precaution tied to this ingredient. There are also no known clashes with common actives such as retinol, vitamin C or niacinamide making it easy to slot into most routines.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Barley Hexapeptide-40 sh-Polypeptide-13 vary from person to person. The points below outline potential issues yet most users will not experience them provided the finished product is well formulated and used as directed.
- Mild redness or irritation in very sensitive skin
- Transient stinging if applied to freshly exfoliated or broken skin
- Contact allergy in individuals with specific peptide or grain sensitivities
- Breakouts if the overall formula contains rich occlusives that clog pores
If any uncomfortable reaction occurs discontinue use and seek guidance from a healthcare professional or dermatologist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 / 5
Barley Hexapeptide-40 sh-Polypeptide-13 is a large water-soluble peptide that sits on the surface rather than sinking into pores or mixing with skin oils, so it has no inherent tendency to clog follicles. Its molecular structure cannot oxidise into pore-blocking by-products and it is usually delivered in light serum bases, which keeps the overall comedogenic risk low.
Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin.
The finished product could still cause congestion if it contains heavy butters or waxes, so always consider the full ingredient list when judging pore safety.
Summary
Barley Hexapeptide-40 sh-Polypeptide-13 is a lab grown fusion peptide that conditions skin by boosting surface moisture, supporting a smoother texture and helping the barrier feel more resilient. It does this by acting like skin’s own signaling peptides, encouraging cells to hold water and lay down a more even stratum corneum.
While not yet as mainstream as classics like hyaluronic acid, it is gaining traction in premium serums and eye creams where brands look for gentle plant-derived actives that avoid animal sourcing.
Safety data shows it is generally well tolerated with a very low risk of irritation or pore clogging. Even so, anyone trying a new product should patch test first to make sure their individual skin agrees with the formula.