What Is Rice Sh-Polypeptide-3?
Rice Sh-Polypeptide-3 is a lab designed version of a small human protein that is grown inside ordinary rice plants. Scientists insert a copy of a chosen human gene into the DNA of Oryza sativa so the plant starts making the same single chain peptide. Once the rice grains have grown, the peptide is extracted, purified and dried into a fine powder that can be blended into skin care formulas.
This approach took shape in the early 2000s when biotechnology firms searched for cleaner and more affordable ways to make human-identical proteins for cosmetics. Rice was picked because it is easy to farm, produces high yields and does not carry animal-based allergens. Today the ingredient appears in creams, lotions, sheet masks, anti-aging serums, eye treatments and other leave-on products that promise smoother, well hydrated skin.
Rice Sh-Polypeptide-3’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This peptide plays more than one role in a formula, making it a flexible choice for product developers.
- Humectant: It attracts water from the environment and pulls it into the outer layer of skin which helps keep skin plump and comfortable while reducing the look of fine lines caused by dryness.
- Opacifying: The powder can slightly cloud a clear base giving creams and lotions a richer, more luxurious look that consumers often link with nourishment.
- Skin conditioning: By sitting on the surface and holding moisture it leaves skin feeling soft, smooth and well conditioned throughout the day.
Who Can Use Rice Sh-Polypeptide-3
Because it is light, water loving and non-greasy, Rice Sh-Polypeptide-3 suits nearly every skin type including dry, normal, combination and oily skin. Sensitive skin users usually do well with it since the peptide is gentle and free of fragrance, though anyone with a known rice allergy should be cautious.
The peptide is grown in rice and contains no animal material so it is suitable for both vegans and vegetarians. It also avoids common animal-derived allergens such as lactose and egg proteins.
There is no research showing that the ingredient poses a risk to women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when used on the skin. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should show any new skincare product to a doctor before adding it to a routine.
Rice Sh-Polypeptide-3 does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight, so it can be used day or night without raising the risk of sunburn. As with any skincare ingredient, pairing it with a broad-spectrum sunscreen during the day is still good practice.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects and reactions to topical Rice Sh-Polypeptide-3 differ from person to person. The points below list potential effects only and most users should not expect to experience them when the ingredient is used at appropriate levels in a well-made product.
- Mild redness or irritation small areas of flushed skin or a slight burning sensation that fades after product removal
- Dry or tight feeling if the formula lacks enough supporting moisturizers the peptide’s water pull can leave skin feeling parched once the water evaporates
- Itchiness or rash rare cases of allergic contact dermatitis especially in individuals with existing rice or grain allergies
- Eye stinging if the product accidentally gets into the eyes while applying around the orbital area
If any of these reactions occur stop using the product, rinse the area with cool water and seek advice from a healthcare professional if symptoms persist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 out of 5 (non-comedogenic)
Rice Sh-Polypeptide-3 is a tiny water soluble peptide that contains no oils, waxes or heavy emollients so it does not form pore blocking films. It simply binds moisture on the surface then washes away with regular cleansing, leaving no residue that could trap sebum or dead cells.
This makes it a comfortable choice for people who are prone to acne or frequent breakouts.
Remember that the overall formula still counts. If the peptide sits inside a rich butter base the product might feel heavier than the peptide alone would suggest, so give the full ingredient list a quick scan.
Summary
Rice Sh-Polypeptide-3 is a bioengineered peptide grown in rice that acts as a humectant, opacifying agent and skin conditioner. It pulls extra water to the skin surface, gives lotions a plush look and leaves skin feeling soft and smooth without added grease.
While not yet a household name it is popping up more often as brands look for gentle vegan friendly hydrators to set their formulas apart.
Safety data is positive, showing low irritation potential and no comedogenicity. Still, patch testing any new product for a day or two is a simple way to be sure your skin agrees before making it part of your routine.