Debutylamino Finasteridoyl Sh-Pentapeptide-12 Sp: What Is It, Cosmetic Uses, Benefits & Side Effects

Curious about this ingredient? In this article we're explaining exactly what it is and why it's used within cosmetic formulations.
Updated on: June 27, 2025
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We verify all information on this page using publicly available nomenclature standards from The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), the European Commission's CosIng database and documentation provided directly by ingredient manufacturers. Our analysis is based on technical data from these sources to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Debutylamino Finasteridoyl Sh-Pentapeptide-12 Sp?

Debutylamino Finasteridoyl Sh-Pentapeptide-12 Sp is a lab made peptide that has been joined to a modified finasteride group. Peptides are short chains of amino acids, the same building blocks found in our skin, hair and nails. By attaching a finasteride style fragment, chemists aim to guide the peptide so it interacts smoothly with the skin surface and helps hold moisture. The “Sh” tag means the peptide sequence was first mapped from human skin proteins, then reproduced by biotechnology rather than taken from animals. Manufacturing usually starts with plant based amino acids that are strung together in a reactor, then the finasteridoyl part is linked on, followed by purification and drying into a fine powder.

The ingredient arrived in cosmetic labs in the late 2010s as brands searched for gentler options to improve skin texture without strong drugs. Its water friendly nature lets it blend well into serums, light creams and sheet masks. You will most often see it in anti aging formulas, intensive night creams, firming eye gels, post shave balms and specialty scalp leave ons that aim to soothe the skin barrier.

Debutylamino Finasteridoyl Sh-Pentapeptide-12 Sp’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This ingredient is classed as a skin conditioning agent, meaning it helps keep the skin feeling soft, smooth and comfortable. In a formula it can support the skin’s natural water balance, calm the look of rough patches and improve the slip of a product so it spreads easily.

Who Can Use Debutylamino Finasteridoyl Sh-Pentapeptide-12 Sp

This peptide suits most skin types including dry, oily, combination and sensitive skin because it is lightweight and non-greasy. Very reactive or allergy-prone skin should proceed with caution only because any new ingredient can trigger a flare if the barrier is already compromised.

The material is made by fermenting plant sourced amino acids then linking on the finasteridoyl group in a lab, so it contains no animal by-products. For that reason it is generally considered appropriate for vegans and vegetarians, provided the rest of the formula also meets their standards.

Finasteride taken by mouth is not advised in pregnancy, however the amount of this finasteridoyl fragment delivered through the skin is extremely low. Still, out of an abundance of caution pregnant or nursing women should ask a doctor before adding any product with this ingredient to their routine. This is not medical advice and individual circumstances vary.

The peptide does not increase photosensitivity, so it will not make the skin more prone to sunburn. Daily sunscreen is still recommended as a basic part of a healthy routine. There are no known issues with hair color treatments or self-tanners when used in normal amounts.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Reactions to topical Debutylamino Finasteridoyl Sh-Pentapeptide-12 Sp differ from person to person. The points below list potential side effects only and most users will not run into any problems when the ingredient is included correctly in a well-formulated product.

  • Temporary redness or warmth at the application site
  • Mild itching or tingling as the product absorbs
  • Localized rash or hives in those allergic to peptides or carrier ingredients
  • Dry patches if used with very strong exfoliants that strip the barrier
  • Stinging or watering if the product migrates into the eyes

If any of these effects occur stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional for guidance.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0 — Debutylamino Finasteridoyl Sh-Pentapeptide-12 Sp is water soluble, used at very low concentrations and contains no oily or waxy residues that could clog pores. Its molecular size is small enough to sit on the skin surface yet not large enough to block follicles. For these reasons it is considered non comedogenic and is generally suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts. Do keep in mind that the overall formula still matters; if the product also contains rich butters or heavy silicones the final pore clogging potential can change.

Summary

Debutylamino Finasteridoyl Sh-Pentapeptide-12 Sp acts primarily as a skin conditioning agent. The peptide portion mimics natural skin proteins to signal softness and repair while the finasteridoyl tail helps the molecule bind light moisture and remain stable in water based formulas. Together they leave the skin feeling smoother, calmer and better hydrated.

This is a niche ingredient that has popped up in targeted serums and premium eye creams since the late 2010s but it has not yet reached mainstream fame. Brands that focus on biotech actives and gentle anti aging blends are the most likely places you will find it.

Safety data so far shows a low risk of irritation or sensitization when used as directed. Still, everyone’s skin is unique so it is wise to perform a small patch test the first time you try a product containing this peptide to confirm personal compatibility.

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