What Is Lauroyl Sh-Oligopeptide-76?
Lauroyl Sh-Oligopeptide-76 is a small chain of amino acids that has been linked to lauric acid, a fatty acid naturally present in coconut and palm kernel oil. By attaching the peptide to lauric acid, chemists create a molecule that is both water-loving and oil-loving, allowing it to mix easily into creams, gels and serums. The peptide portion is designed to mimic fragments of human skin proteins, while the lauric segment gives it added stability and an affinity for the skin’s oily surface.
The ingredient emerged from research aimed at combining the soothing properties of short peptides with the well-known purifying power of lauric acid. Early laboratory studies showed that when the two were joined they produced a compound that could inhibit unwanted surface bacteria and help balance sebum, making it attractive to formulators of blemish-prone skin care. Over the past decade suppliers have refined the synthesis, using controlled enzymatic or chemical coupling to bond purified lauric acid to laboratory-made Sh-Oligopeptide-76, then purifying the result to cosmetic grade standards.
Because of its dual nature, Lauroyl Sh-Oligopeptide-76 is now found in a range of leave-on and rinse-off products such as lightweight moisturizers for oily skin, clarifying lotions, anti-blemish spot treatments, pre-makeup mattifying primers and even modern sheet masks aimed at controlling shine.
Lauroyl Sh-Oligopeptide-76’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Formulators value this ingredient for two primary actions that work hand in hand to support clearer looking skin.
- Anti-Sebum: Helps regulate excess oil on the skin surface which can minimize unwanted shine and create a more balanced complexion. By reducing sebum buildup it also supports longer wear for makeup and leaves a smoother feel after application.
- Antimicrobial: Inhibits growth of certain bacteria that thrive in oily environments, an effect that can lower the chance of clogged pores turning into visible blemishes. This property also supports product preservation, helping keep the formula fresher during daily use.
Who Can Use Lauroyl Sh-Oligopeptide-76
This peptide–fatty acid hybrid is most at home in routines for oily, combination and blemish-prone skin because it helps curb excess oil and keeps breakout-causing microbes in check. Normal skin can enjoy the mattifying feel too, though very dry or compromised skin may find it a bit light on hydration if used alone. In that case pairing it with a richer cream solves the issue.
Lauroyl Sh-Oligopeptide-76 is produced from lab-made amino acids joined to lauric acid that is typically sourced from coconut or palm kernels, so it is considered suitable for vegans and vegetarians provided the finished product carries no animal-derived additives.
The ingredient has no known hormonal activity and is not listed as restricted during pregnancy or breastfeeding. That said, this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should run any skincare product they plan to use past a qualified healthcare professional just to be on the safe side.
It does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight so extra photosensitivity is not a concern. The molecule also plays well with most common actives such as niacinamide, salicylic acid and retinol, giving formulators plenty of flexibility.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Lauroyl Sh-Oligopeptide-76 can vary from person to person. The following list covers potential side effects that could appear in rare cases. Assuming the product has been formulated and stored correctly most users will not experience these issues.
- Mild redness or warmth right after application
- Transient tingling or stinging on sensitive areas
- Dry patches if used without enough accompanying moisture on very dry skin
- Local irritation when layered with multiple strong actives at once
- Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals specifically sensitive to fatty acid–linked peptides
If any uncomfortable reaction persists stop using the product and consult a dermatologist or healthcare professional for tailored advice
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5
Although lauric acid alone can be pore clogging, bonding it to a small peptide greatly reduces the amount of free fatty acid left on the skin and keeps the molecule partly water soluble. Most finished formulas use Lauroyl Sh-Oligopeptide-76 at low concentrations and in lightweight textures designed for oily skin, so the likelihood of it blocking pores is minimal. This makes it a generally safe choice for people who are prone to acne and breakouts. As with any ingredient, overall comedogenicity also depends on the rest of the formula.
Summary
Lauroyl Sh-Oligopeptide-76 offers two main perks: it helps curb excess oil and it discourages the growth of blemish-causing bacteria. The lauric segment targets microbes and aligns with skin lipids while the peptide fragment calms the surface, letting the molecule act as a balanced, skin-friendly agent in both leave-on and rinse-off products.
While not yet a household name, it is gaining traction in modern K-beauty inspired gels, lightweight creams and matte primers aimed at combination or oily skin types. Formulators appreciate that it tackles shine without the dryness often linked to stronger actives.
Current safety data shows a low irritation profile when used as directed. Still, skin can be unpredictable so it is smart practice to patch test any new product containing this peptide-fatty acid hybrid before adding it to a full routine.