What Is Shikimoyl Nonapeptide-11?
Shikimoyl Nonapeptide-11 is a lab made blend created when shikimic acid, a plant sugar most often taken from star anise, is joined with a chain of nine amino acids called Nonapeptide-11. By linking the natural acid with the peptide chemists get a small, skin friendly molecule that mixes the smoothing feel of peptides with the purifying touch of shikimic acid.
The ingredient was first explored in the early 2010s, when formulators looked for gentle ways to keep skin balanced while also guarding it from daily stress. Peptide research had already shown how short amino acid chains can “talk” to skin cells, so adding the well known exfoliating and antioxidant talent of shikimic acid seemed a logical next step. The result was Shikimoyl Nonapeptide-11, which soon appeared in modern K-beauty and European mattifying lines.
Commercial production starts with fermenting star anise to pull out shikimic acid, while the peptide portion is built through solid phase synthesis. The two parts are then reacted in a controlled tank to form a stable bond, purified, dried into a fine powder and checked for quality.
You will most often spot Shikimoyl Nonapeptide-11 in lightweight serums, oil control moisturizers, sheet masks, anti aging creams and targeted T-zone treatments. Because it is water soluble and works well at a wide pH range it fits easily into both gel and lotion textures.
Shikimoyl Nonapeptide-11’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
When added to a formula this ingredient gives a three part boost to skin comfort and appearance
- Anti-Sebum: helps temper excess oil so the face looks fresher for longer and makeup stays put without heavy powders
- Antioxidant: mops up free radicals created by sunlight and pollution which can otherwise lead to dull tone and early lines
- Skin Protecting: supports the skin barrier by calming everyday stress and keeping moisture in so the complexion feels soft and resilient
Who Can Use Shikimoyl Nonapeptide-11
This peptide-acid blend suits most skin types. Oily and combo skin often see the biggest payoff since the ingredient helps curb shine yet feels weightless. Dry or sensitive skin can also use it because it is water based and non stripping. The only group that might need extra care is those with a known allergy to anise or fermented plant extracts as the shikimic acid comes from star anise.
Shikimoyl Nonapeptide-11 is made in the lab from plant sourced shikimic acid and a synthetically built peptide chain, so it contains no animal material. That makes it a vegan and vegetarian friendly choice.
No current data links this ingredient to problems during pregnancy or while nursing. Still this is not medical advice; anyone who is pregnant or breastfeeding should show the full product list to a healthcare professional before adding it to a routine.
The molecule does not make skin more sensitive to the sun and is stable when layered with daily SPF. It also plays well with common actives like niacinamide and hyaluronic acid, making it easy to slot into almost any regimen.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to Shikimoyl Nonapeptide-11 can differ from one person to the next. The points below outline possible drawbacks but most users will not notice any trouble when the ingredient is used at normal levels in a well made product.
- Mild redness
- Temporary stinging on very reactive skin
- Rare allergic rash in those sensitive to star anise derivatives
- Interaction with strong acids or retinoids that could lead to dryness if layered too quickly
If irritation or any unexpected change occurs stop use and speak with a medical professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0–1 out of 5
Shikimoyl Nonapeptide-11 is water soluble, used at very low concentrations and contains no heavy oils or waxes that could block pores. Its peptide portion is lightweight and the shikimic acid segment is naturally exfoliating, which helps keep follicles clear rather than congested. For these reasons it earns a 0–1 comedogenic score, meaning it is effectively non pore clogging for most users.
Because of this low rating the ingredient is generally suitable for skin that is prone to acne or frequent breakouts.
Formulas built around this molecule often pair it with similarly non comedogenic bases such as hydrating gels or oil free lotions, so the finished product usually stays light on the skin.
Summary
Shikimoyl Nonapeptide-11 delivers three key benefits: it reins in excess oil for a fresher look, shields skin from everyday oxidative stress and supports a strong barrier so moisture stays put. The peptide chain communicates with sebaceous glands to dial down shine while shikimic acid sweeps away dead cells and neutralizes free radicals. Together they leave skin calmer, clearer and better protected.
Although not yet a household name it has been gaining quiet popularity in K-beauty and select European lines that focus on gentle oil control and minimalist formulas. Wider use is expected as brands look for multi tasking actives that feel weightless on the skin.
Current data shows it is well tolerated with only rare reports of irritation or allergy. Still, everyone’s skin is unique so it is wise to perform a simple patch test whenever you introduce a new product containing Shikimoyl Nonapeptide-11 just to be cautious.