What Is Sh-Oligopeptide-105 Sp?
Sh-Oligopeptide-105 Sp is a lab made fragment of a naturally occurring human protein known as H/ACA ribonucleoprotein complex subunit DKC1. Scientists copy a short stretch of 25 amino acids from the full 514 amino acid chain and build it from the ground up using solid-phase peptide synthesis. Each amino acid is added one by one, the chain is cleaved from its solid support, purified, then dried into a fine powder ready for use in skin care.
This man-made approach keeps the peptide free of animal material and lets makers control purity and stability. Interest in bio-identical peptides grew in the early 2000s as brands looked for gentle yet effective ways to boost skin hydration and firmness. Sh-Oligopeptide-105 Sp joined the roster as a small, easily absorbed fragment that could imitate part of the body’s own proteins without the drawbacks of full-sized molecules.
Today you might find this peptide in lightweight serums, gel or cream moisturizers, sheet masks, leave-on anti aging treatments, post-sun soothing lotions and eye creams where extra moisture and a smooth skin feel are desired.
Sh-Oligopeptide-105 Sp’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In skin care products Sh-Oligopeptide-105 Sp is prized for one key action:
Humectant: the peptide attracts and binds water, helping the formula pull moisture from the environment or deeper layers of the skin to the surface. This boosts immediate hydration, leaves the skin looking plumper and softer and can smooth the look of fine lines caused by dryness while improving the spreadability of the product itself.
Who Can Use Sh-Oligopeptide-105 Sp
This water-loving peptide is considered suitable for most skin types including dry, normal, combination, oily and even sensitive skin because it moisturizes without leaving a heavy or greasy film. Those with very reactive or allergy-prone skin should still monitor how their skin feels, as any peptide can be a trigger for a small number of people.
Sh-Oligopeptide-105 Sp is synthesised entirely in the lab and contains no animal-derived material so it is appropriate for vegans and vegetarians.
Current data shows no specific risks for pregnant or breastfeeding individuals when the peptide is used topically in standard cosmetic concentrations. This is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should discuss all skincare products with a qualified healthcare provider to be safe.
The ingredient does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and can be used day or night without raising the risk of sunburn. As always daily sunscreen is still recommended for overall skin health.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to any skincare ingredient can vary from person to person. The points below outline possible but uncommon reactions when Sh-Oligopeptide-105 Sp is applied to the skin, assuming the product has been formulated and preserved correctly.
- Mild redness or warmth
- Allergic contact dermatitis in those sensitised to peptides or specific formulation components
- Temporary stinging if applied to broken or freshly exfoliated skin
- Rare breakout or congestion in individuals who react to any change in routine
- Increased irritation when layered with strong acids or retinoids due to enhanced penetration of those actives
If you notice persistent discomfort swelling or any unusual reaction stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0/5
Sh-Oligopeptide-105 Sp is a small, water soluble peptide that does not form an occlusive film or leave behind oily residue so it is unlikely to clog pores. Its role is to pull moisture into the skin rather than coat it with heavy emollients, which keeps the risk of blocked follicles very low.
Because of this rating it is generally considered suitable for people who are prone to acne or frequent breakouts.
No data suggest that the peptide feeds surface bacteria or changes sebum production, which further supports its low comedogenic potential.
Summary
Sh-Oligopeptide-105 Sp is mainly valued as a humectant that binds water to improve skin hydration, softness and the appearance of fine lines caused by dryness. It performs this job by mimicking a tiny part of a natural human protein, letting it sink in quickly and draw moisture toward the upper layers of the skin.
The peptide is still a niche ingredient seen mostly in newer hydrating serums, masks and eye creams rather than in big name moisturizers, but interest is growing as brands look for lightweight ways to boost moisture.
Current research and real world use point to a high level of safety with very few reports of irritation or breakouts. As with any new skincare product it is smart to patch test first to be sure your skin agrees with the formula.