What Is Sh-Oligopeptide-83 Sp?
Sh-Oligopeptide-83 Sp is a lab-made fragment of the human protein zinc-alpha-2-glycoprotein. Scientists isolate a 30-amino-acid stretch that includes alanine, asparagine, aspartic acid, glutamic acid, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, serine, threonine and valine then reproduce it entirely through synthetic chemistry. Because it is built to match a naturally occurring sequence, the peptide is skin friendly and highly targeted.
The full parent protein was first studied for its role in cell communication and skin balance. As researchers explored smaller pieces of the protein, they found that this specific fragment helped shield skin from stress and improve product glide. The cosmetic industry adopted the peptide in the late 2010s when advances in solid-phase peptide synthesis made large-scale production reliable and cost effective.
To manufacture it, individual amino acids are linked one by one on a solid resin, rinsed, then cleaved from the resin to release the finished chain. After purification and quality checks the peptide is blended into water-based solutions or encapsulated for better stability.
You will most often see Sh-Oligopeptide-83 Sp in soothing masks, lightweight moisturizers, anti-aging serums, primers, aftershave balms and leave-on treatments aimed at reinforcing the skin barrier.
Sh-Oligopeptide-83 Sp’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Formulators pick this peptide for two key reasons that directly improve how a product feels and performs on the skin.
- Skin Protecting: Creates a light film that helps defend against daily aggressors like pollution or friction. This support keeps the skin barrier comfortable which can reduce dryness and visible irritation.
- Slip Modifier: Adds a silky glide to creams, gels and serums so they spread evenly without tugging. Better slip means the formula applies effortlessly and leaves a soft afterfeel that many users enjoy.
Who Can Use Sh-Oligopeptide-83 Sp
This peptide is generally friendly to all skin types including dry, oily, combination and sensitive because it is lightweight and non-occlusive. Its barrier-supporting film can even help calm easily upset skin. There are no known reasons for people with acne-prone or mature skin to avoid it.
Production is fully synthetic with no animal-derived inputs so Sh-Oligopeptide-83 Sp is suitable for both vegans and vegetarians. Most suppliers also certify it as cruelty free.
The molecule is large and stays on the surface of the skin which means systemic absorption is very unlikely. For that reason brands often label it as fine for use during pregnancy or while nursing. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or breastfeeding should still check with a healthcare professional before adding new products.
The peptide does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and can be used morning or night without changing your sunscreen routine.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Sh-Oligopeptide-83 Sp differ from person to person. The points below cover unlikely but possible side effects when the ingredient is used in a correctly formulated product. Most users will notice none of these issues.
- Temporary redness or flushing
- Mild stinging or warmth right after application
- Small bumps or breakouts if combined with very heavy occlusive bases
- Itchy rash in people who are allergic to one of the preservative or fragrance additives in the finished product
- Eye irritation if the formula is mistakenly rubbed into the eye area
If you notice any discomfort stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 / 5
Sh-Oligopeptide-83 Sp is a water-soluble peptide that sits on the surface and doesn’t clog pores. It lacks heavy oils or waxes that typically trigger comedones, and it is used at very low concentrations. Because of these factors it earns a solid zero on the comedogenic scale.
That makes it a safe pick for people who are prone to acne or breakouts.
Keep in mind the finished product’s overall formula matters more than any one ingredient. If the peptide is blended with rich butters or high-level silicones, pore-clogging potential can go up even though the peptide itself stays non-comedogenic.
Summary
Sh-Oligopeptide-83 Sp is a lab-crafted fragment of zinc-alpha-2-glycoprotein that works as a skin protector and slip modifier. It forms a light breathable film that shields the barrier from everyday stress while giving creams and serums a silky glide for smoother application.
The peptide is still a niche addition compared with buzzier actives like vitamin C or retinol, yet interest is growing as formulators look for gentle barrier-friendly ingredients that also improve texture.
Overall safety is high: it is non-comedogenic, vegan, synthetically produced and rarely irritating. As with any new skincare product it is wise to perform a quick patch test first to be sure your skin agrees with the complete formula.