Methionyl Sh-Oligopeptide-75 Sh-Polypeptide-8: 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: July 1, 2025
Share:
Inside this article:

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 Methionyl Sh-Oligopeptide-75 Sh-Polypeptide-8?

Methionyl Sh-Oligopeptide-75 Sh-Polypeptide-8 is a lab made fusion peptide created with the help of the common bacterium E. coli. Scientists join together two smaller peptide genes, add a starter code for the amino acid methionine and let the bacteria ferment. The bacteria act like tiny factories, turning out a chain of 225 amino acids that can include natural links called disulfide bonds and light sugar decorations known as glycosylation. After purification the result is a highly uniform ingredient that copies the building blocks found in our own skin proteins.

Interest in designer peptides rose in the early 2000s when brands searched for gentle high-performance ingredients that could signal skin repair without irritation. This particular fusion peptide made its way into cosmetic labs because it combines two well studied sequences that already showed promise for defending skin and supporting its barrier.

Today it is made in controlled biotech facilities that follow good manufacturing practice. The fermented broth is filtered to remove the bacteria then the peptide is isolated, tested for purity and finally freeze-dried into a stable powder ready for formulators.

You will most often spot Methionyl Sh-Oligopeptide-75 Sh-Polypeptide-8 in anti aging serums, regenerating sheet masks, eye creams, barrier-strengthening moisturizers, after-sun gels and targeted spot treatments where brands want a lightweight yet potent skin protector.

Methionyl Sh-Oligopeptide-75 Sh-Polypeptide-8’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This smart peptide offers several benefits that support healthy looking skin in everyday formulas.

  • Antioxidant – helps neutralize free radicals generated by UV light or pollution which, in turn, can lessen the look of dullness and early lines
  • Skin Conditioning – supports a softer smoother feel by reinforcing the skin’s natural protein network and promoting a plump hydrated appearance
  • Skin Protecting – forms a light invisible shield that helps defend against environmental stress so the skin barrier stays resilient

Who Can Use Methionyl Sh-Oligopeptide-75 Sh-Polypeptide-8

This peptide is generally suitable for all skin types including dry, oily, combination, sensitive and mature skin because it is lightweight and non-greasy. Those with very reactive skin should still start slowly as with any new active but the ingredient itself has a low irritation profile. It is not known to clog pores so acne-prone users can usually incorporate it without issues.

The peptide is produced through bacterial fermentation with no animal-derived materials so it fits both vegan and vegetarian lifestyles.

Current data shows no specific risks for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the peptide is used topically in cosmetic levels. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should review their routine with a healthcare professional before use just to be safe.

Methionyl Sh-Oligopeptide-75 Sh-Polypeptide-8 does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and can be used day or night. Because it is water-soluble it layers well with most other common skincare ingredients and does not interfere with sunscreen performance.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Responses to topical Methionyl Sh-Oligopeptide-75 Sh-Polypeptide-8 can differ from person to person. The points below list potential reactions that could occur even though most users will not experience them when the ingredient is properly formulated and used as directed.

  • Mild redness or warmth shortly after application
  • Temporary itching or stinging in very sensitive skin
  • Rare allergic rash in individuals with a specific peptide sensitivity
  • Contact dermatitis if combined with other irritating actives in the same product

If any uncomfortable reaction appears stop using the product and seek advice from a qualified medical professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0 (non-comedogenic)

Methionyl Sh-Oligopeptide-75 Sh-Polypeptide-8 is a large water-soluble peptide with no oily carriers or waxy residues so it does not settle inside pores or interfere with sebum flow. Because it stays on the surface or is quickly broken down by skin enzymes it has virtually no chance of triggering blackheads or whiteheads.

That makes it a comfortable choice for people who are prone to acne or frequent breakouts.

As always the finished product formula matters. If the peptide sits in a heavy cream rich in pore-clogging oils the overall product could still be problematic even though the peptide itself is not.

Summary

Methionyl Sh-Oligopeptide-75 Sh-Polypeptide-8 is an antioxidant, skin conditioning and skin protecting peptide. Its amino acid sequence mops up free radicals, signals the skin to reinforce its own protein network and forms a light shield that helps defend against daily environmental stress.

While not yet a household name it enjoys steady use in high-end serums, eye creams and barrier repair treatments thanks to its gentle performance and compatibility with most actives.

Current studies and real-world use show it to be very safe with a low irritation profile. Still, whenever you bring a new product into your routine it is wise to patch test first to confirm personal tolerance.

Was this article helpful?
More from Glooshi:
ADVERTISEMENT
Get all our top headlines in beauty.
Delivered right to your inbox each week. Zero spam, all goodness, opt-out at anytime.
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Get the latest beauty news, top product recommendations & brand-exclusive discount codes direct to your inbox.
Send good feedback:

All feedback is greatly appreciated, anonymous, and will be used to improve the quality of our articles.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Send bad feedback:

All feedback is greatly appreciated, anonymous, and will be used to improve the quality of our articles.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Search