What Is R-Clostridium Histolyticum Collagenase H Sh-Oligopeptide-60?
R-Clostridium Histolyticum Collagenase H Sh-Oligopeptide-60 is a lab-made fragment of collagenase H, a protein that naturally comes from the bacterium Clostridium histolyticum. Scientists copy the gene that makes this protein, place it in a friendly host like E. coli, then let the host grow in large tanks so it can produce the peptide in bulk. After fermentation the mixture is filtered, purified and carefully sized down to create a short, stable chain of amino acids that is easy to add to skin care formulas.
Collagen-breaking proteins were first explored in wound care, but their smoothing effect on the skin soon caught the attention of the cosmetic world. By trimming the original enzyme into a small oligopeptide, researchers kept the skin-conditioning perks while removing the intense activity that could be too strong for everyday use. This gentler version started appearing in premium beauty products in the late 2010s as brands looked for biotech alternatives to plant or animal extracts.
Today you will mostly find R-Clostridium Histolyticum Collagenase H Sh-Oligopeptide-60 in anti aging serums, firming creams, sheet masks, eye treatments and post-procedure recovery lotions. Formulators like it because it mixes well with water-based systems, stays stable over a wide pH range and plays nicely with other common actives such as hyaluronic acid and peptides.
R-Clostridium Histolyticum Collagenase H Sh-Oligopeptide-60’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient is valued for one key role in skin care.
Skin conditioning: By helping to loosen and renew built-up surface proteins, the peptide leaves skin feeling smoother, softer and more supple. Regular use can improve the look of fine lines, boost overall firmness and enhance the absorption of follow-up products, giving the complexion a fresher, more polished appearance.
Who Can Use R-Clostridium Histolyticum Collagenase H Sh-Oligopeptide-60
This biotech peptide is generally well tolerated by all skin types including dry, oily, combination and mature complexions. Its mild surface-smoothing action is usually gentle enough for sensitive skin, though anyone with a severely compromised skin barrier or active infections should proceed cautiously because even low-level enzymatic activity can aggravate already inflamed areas.
Because the peptide is produced through controlled fermentation rather than animal harvesting it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians.
No specific warnings exist for pregnant or breastfeeding women, but data on long-term use during these periods is limited. This content is not medical advice; anyone who is pregnant or nursing should ask a healthcare professional before adding new skincare products.
The peptide does not make skin more prone to sunburn and therefore is not classed as photosensitising. Normal daily sun protection is still encouraged for overall skin health.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical R-Clostridium Histolyticum Collagenase H Sh-Oligopeptide-60 differ from person to person. The points below outline potential, yet uncommon, effects when the ingredient is used at standard cosmetic levels in a well-formulated product.
- Mild redness or warmth
- Transient tingling or stinging on application
- Dry or tight feeling if overused alongside other exfoliating actives
- Allergic contact dermatitis in those with a specific peptide sensitivity
- Increased irritation when layered with strong acids or retinoids
If irritation or any unexpected reaction occurs stop use immediately and consult a qualified healthcare provider.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0/5. R-Clostridium Histolyticum Collagenase H Sh-Oligopeptide-60 is a water-soluble peptide with no oily or waxy components that could clog pores. It breaks down easily on the skin, leaves no residue and is used at very low concentrations, all of which add up to a negligible risk of comedone formation.
Because of this non-pore-blocking profile the ingredient is generally suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts.
No interaction with sebum levels has been reported, and its gentle protein-smoothing action does not thicken the stratum corneum, another reason it earns the lowest possible score.
Summary
R-Clostridium Histolyticum Collagenase H Sh-Oligopeptide-60 is a lab-crafted fragment of a natural collagen-digesting enzyme. In skin care it serves one main purpose: skin conditioning. By lightly loosening built-up surface proteins it helps skin feel smoother and look firmer while improving the penetration of follow-up products.
The peptide sits in the niche category of biotech actives, so it is not as common as classics like hyaluronic acid yet its use is growing in premium serums and masks thanks to its stability in water-based formulas and vegan credentials.
Safety data so far show a low rate of irritation and virtually no clogging risk, making it a low-concern choice for most users. As with any new cosmetic active a quick patch test is wise before fully incorporating a product into your routine.