What Is Silica Polysilsesquioxane Propyldisulfideacetyl Hexapeptide-87 Amide?
Silica Polysilsesquioxane Propyldisulfideacetyl Hexapeptide-87 Amide is a hybrid material that joins mineral silica with a lab made peptide. It starts with finely milled silica particles that are coated with 3-mercaptopropyltrimethoxysilane, a silane that leaves sulfur-based “hooks” on the surface. These hooks are then linked to Hexapeptide-87 Amide using thioglycolic acid, which forms strong disulfide bridges and locks the peptide onto the silica. The result is a stable powder that carries water-loving peptide fragments on every particle.
This approach grew popular in the early 2010s when formulators looked for ways to protect delicate peptides and deliver them evenly on skin. By grafting a peptide onto silica, chemists combined the oil-absorbing smooth feel of silica with the skincare claims of a peptide in one easy-to-use ingredient. The technology has since made its way into many beauty labs and now appears in finished products worldwide.
The ingredient is made by mixing treated silica and the peptide in a controlled reactor, removing solvents, then milling the dried mass into a fine cosmetic-grade powder. Because the peptide is covalently bound, it stays on the silica through blending, filling and shelf life.
You will mainly find Silica Polysilsesquioxane Propyldisulfideacetyl Hexapeptide-87 Amide in anti aging serums, moisturizing creams, sheet masks, leave-on treatments, eye creams and makeup primers where a silky texture and skin-care benefit are both desired.
Silica Polysilsesquioxane Propyldisulfideacetyl Hexapeptide-87 Amide’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This dual action ingredient offers more than one advantage when added to a formula.
- Humectant – the peptide portion attracts and binds water, helping the skin surface hold on to moisture so it looks plumper and feels softer
- Skin Conditioning – the silica-peptide complex forms a light film that smooths rough patches, supports a more even texture and can reduce the appearance of fine lines
Who Can Use Silica Polysilsesquioxane Propyldisulfideacetyl Hexapeptide-87 Amide
This ingredient is generally suitable for all skin types. Dry and mature skin tend to appreciate its moisture holding ability while oily and combination skin benefit from the lightweight silky feel of silica that does not add greasiness. Sensitive skin usually tolerates it well because the peptide is firmly bonded to the inert silica base which limits free reactive groups. There are no specific skin types that should avoid it unless a person knows they react badly to silica or peptides in general.
Silica Polysilsesquioxane Propyldisulfideacetyl Hexapeptide-87 Amide is derived from mineral silica and a lab synthesized hexapeptide so it is free from animal origin. This makes it appropriate for vegans and vegetarians.
Formulators do not list any hormone related activity for the ingredient and published toxicology data show no reproductive toxicity at the levels used in cosmetics. Current evidence suggests that pregnant or breastfeeding women can use products containing it. This is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should check with a healthcare professional before adding new products to their routine.
The molecule does not absorb UV light or make skin more vulnerable to the sun so it is not considered photosensitizing. It can be used morning or night without special sun precautions beyond normal daily sunscreen.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Silica Polysilsesquioxane Propyldisulfideacetyl Hexapeptide-87 Amide differ from person to person. The following list covers possible but uncommon effects. When used as directed most people experience none of these issues.
- Mild redness or irritation in individuals highly sensitive to silica or peptide materials
- Transient dryness or tightness if the surrounding formula lacks enough emollients to balance the absorbing nature of silica
- Contact dermatitis in rare cases where an allergic response to the peptide portion occurs
- Eye discomfort if loose powder versions are applied too close to the eye and particles migrate onto the ocular surface
If any of the above reactions occur discontinue use and seek advice from a qualified health professional
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0/5
Silica is an inert mineral that sits on the surface without clogging pores and the bonded hexapeptide is water loving rather than oily, so the complex lacks the fatty acids or waxes that usually trigger breakouts. Because the peptide is covalently fixed to the silica, it does not migrate into pores or build up in follicular openings. As a result this ingredient is considered non-comedogenic and is generally suitable for skin that is prone to acne or congestion.
One added benefit is that the powder can even absorb minor surface oil, which may help reduce the look of shine for those with oily or acne-prone skin types.
Summary
Silica Polysilsesquioxane Propyldisulfideacetyl Hexapeptide-87 Amide brings two key actions to a formula: it acts as a humectant by drawing moisture to the skin thanks to the peptide side while the silica base provides a smoothing skin conditioning effect that leaves a soft matte finish. The covalent bond between peptide and silica keeps the material stable and allows even distribution in creams serums and primers.
Although not yet a household name it is gaining traction among brands that want a multitasking powder capable of delivering both texture enhancement and skincare benefits without heavy feel.
Current safety data show low irritation potential for most users at cosmetic levels of use. Still every skin is unique so it is smart to perform a quick patch test when trying any new product containing this ingredient.