What Is Sh-Oligopeptide-83 Amide?
Sh-Oligopeptide-83 Amide is a lab-created fragment of osteopontin, a naturally occurring protein that helps keep tissues healthy. Scientists trimmed the full 314-amino-acid protein down to a 19-amino-acid chain, then produced it with modern peptide-synthesis equipment. Because it is made in a controlled setting and not harvested from animals, the ingredient is consistent, vegan friendly and free of contaminants.
The peptide caught the eye of formulators in the early 2000s when research on cell-signaling proteins showed that short chains could encourage skin to stay hydrated and supple. By isolating this specific sequence, chemists delivered those perks without the stability problems large proteins often face in creams and serums.
Production begins with linking protected amino acids one by one on a solid support. After the full 19-unit chain is assembled, protective groups are removed and the peptide is cleaved, purified and converted to its amide form for extra stability. The result is a white powder that dissolves easily in water-based solutions, making it straightforward to add to finished products.
You will most often spot Sh-Oligopeptide-83 Amide in leave-on items such as lightweight moisturizers, age-defying serums, sheet masks and targeted eye or lip treatments where extra hydration and skin comfort are welcome.
Sh-Oligopeptide-83 Amide’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
When blended into skincare, this peptide offers several useful actions:
- Humectant – attracts water from the environment and deeper skin layers to the surface, helping to plump fine lines and maintain a fresh look
- Skin conditioning – supports a smoother, softer feel by reinforcing the skin’s natural barrier and encouraging balanced moisture
- Emollient – fills in rough spots on the skin’s surface for an instantly silky finish that reduces visible dryness
Who Can Use Sh-Oligopeptide-83 Amide
This peptide is gentle enough for most skin types including dry, normal, combination and oily skin. Its water-binding nature makes it especially helpful for dry or dehydrated complexions. Sensitive skin generally tolerates it well since the molecule is small and free of fragrance or dyes, though anyone with a known allergy to peptides should proceed with caution.
The ingredient is made entirely in a lab using plant-derived raw materials so it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians. No animal or animal-by-product is involved at any point in production.
Based on current data, there is nothing about Sh-Oligopeptide-83 Amide that is known to pose a specific risk during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Still, this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should show the full product label to a qualified health professional before use.
The peptide does not increase photosensitivity, so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. Of course, daily sunscreen is still an essential step for overall skin health.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Sh-Oligopeptide-83 Amide can vary from person to person. The points below list potential side effects, most of which are unlikely when the ingredient is used at recommended levels in a well-formulated product.
- Mild stinging or tingling
- Temporary redness
- Itching or tightness
- Localized swelling if an allergy is present
- Rare cases of contact dermatitis in highly sensitive individuals
If any persistent discomfort or visible irritation occurs stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
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Sh-Oligopeptide-83 Amide is a small water-soluble peptide that contains no heavy oils or waxes, so it leaves almost no residue that could block pores. Its main job is to attract and hold water on the skin’s surface, not sit inside follicles, which is why it is classed as non-comedogenic.
Safe for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin.
If the finished product pairs this peptide with thick butters or greasy oils the overall formula might still feel heavy, so check the full ingredient list.
Summary
Sh-Oligopeptide-83 Amide is a 19-amino-acid fragment of osteopontin that serves as a humectant, skin conditioner and emollient. It binds water to plump the surface, smooths rough edges between cells and leaves skin feeling soft.
While not yet a mainstream superstar, the peptide is gaining fans in targeted serums masks and light moisturizers that aim for a weightless hydrated finish.
It has an excellent safety profile with very low chances of irritation or pore blockage, but every complexion is different so a quick patch test is always a smart move before committing to full-face use.