Stearyldisulfidehexyl Sh-Dna-2 Peg-45/Sh-Rna-1: What Is It, Cosmetic Uses, Benefits & Side Effects

Curious about this ingredient? In this article we're explaining exactly what it is and why it's used within cosmetic formulations.
Updated on: June 30, 2025
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We verify all information on this page using publicly available nomenclature standards from The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), the European Commission's CosIng database and documentation provided directly by ingredient manufacturers. Our analysis is based on technical data from these sources to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Stearyldisulfidehexyl Sh-Dna-2 Peg-45/Sh-Rna-1?

Stearyldisulfidehexyl Sh-Dna-2 Peg-45/Sh-Rna-1 is a lab-engineered pairing of a short strand of synthetic human RNA with a complementary DNA strand. The RNA portion is designed to target messages that tell hair follicles to respond to androgens, while the DNA strand stabilizes the complex and is capped at one end with a fatty Stearyldisulfidehexyl group and at the other with a moisture-loving polyethylene glycol chain. These added groups help the molecule mix into topical formulas and stay active on the skin or scalp surface.

This technology grew out of medical research on gene silencing, but skincare scientists soon saw its potential for cosmetic hair care. By the late 2010s formulation chemists adapted the molecule to survive in creams and serums, allowing it to reach the outer layers of the scalp without breaking apart.

Production starts with automated synthesizers that build the 19-unit RNA and DNA strands. After purification the strands are chemically linked, then the Stearyldisulfidehexyl and PEG-45 groups are attached. Final filtration and quality checks ensure it meets cosmetic grade standards.

You will usually spot Stearyldisulfidehexyl Sh-Dna-2 Peg-45/Sh-Rna-1 in leave-on scalp treatments, densifying hair serums and premium masks aimed at improving hair strength and fullness.

Stearyldisulfidehexyl Sh-Dna-2 Peg-45/Sh-Rna-1’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This ingredient is added to formulas mainly for one clear purpose.

Hair conditioning: By helping to reduce the signals that make hair follicles sensitive to androgens it supports a healthier growth environment which can lead to strands that feel stronger look thicker and are easier to manage.

Who Can Use Stearyldisulfidehexyl Sh-Dna-2 Peg-45/Sh-Rna-1

This ingredient is generally gentle enough for all scalp and hair types including oily, dry, normal and combination. Because the molecule is large and stays on the surface irritation is uncommon, though people with highly reactive or broken skin might still feel a mild tingle during the first few uses.

The compound is fully synthetic and contains no animal-derived material so it is considered suitable for both vegans and vegetarians. Certification varies by brand so anyone following a strict lifestyle may want to look for a cruelty-free or vegan logo on the finished product.

There is not yet robust safety data for use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Absorption through the skin is expected to be minimal yet the ingredient does target androgen pathways so a cautious approach is best. This is not medical advice; pregnant or nursing individuals should check with their doctor before starting any new scalp treatment.

Stearyldisulfidehexyl Sh-Dna-2 Peg-45/Sh-Rna-1 is not known to increase photosensitivity, meaning it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. Normal sun protection habits are still important whenever you are outdoors.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Side effects and reactions to topical Stearyldisulfidehexyl Sh-Dna-2 Peg-45/Sh-Rna-1 can vary from person to person. The points below list potential issues only and most users will not experience them when the ingredient is correctly formulated and applied.

  • Mild scalp redness or warmth shortly after application
  • Temporary itching or tingling
  • Dry or flaky patches in sensitive individuals
  • Rare allergic contact dermatitis presenting as rash or swelling
  • Excess shedding at the start of use as older hairs are replaced by new growth
  • Increased effect when layered with other androgen-suppressing treatments which could lead to greater irritation

If any of these effects occur and do not quickly improve discontinue use and seek advice from a healthcare professional or dermatologist.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 1/5

Despite carrying a fatty stearyldisulfidehexyl tail the overall molecule is enormous, highly charged and water friendly thanks to its PEG segment and nucleic acid backbone. These traits keep it sitting on the surface rather than slipping into pores so it is very unlikely to trap oil or debris. For that reason it earns a low comedogenic score of 1.

People who are prone to acne or breakouts can generally use products with this ingredient without worrying about clogged pores.

As always the finished formula matters most. Heavy oils or waxes included alongside this molecule could raise a product’s overall pore-clogging potential even though the active itself is low risk.

Summary

Stearyldisulfidehexyl Sh-Dna-2 Peg-45/Sh-Rna-1 is a specialty hair conditioning active that works by selectively quieting androgen signals in the scalp. The RNA strand targets androgen receptor messages while the complementary DNA strand and attached helper groups keep the complex stable and compatible with topical formulas. The result can be stronger fuller easier-to-style hair.

Right now you will only spot this high tech ingredient in a handful of premium serums and leave-on scalp treatments so it is not yet mainstream. As more brands explore gene-silencing inspired actives its presence may grow.

Current data suggests it is safe for most users with minimal risk of irritation or clogged pores. Still everyone’s skin is different so it is smart to do a quick patch test when trying any new product that contains this cutting-edge molecule.

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