What Is Transgenic Silkworm Rh-Oligopeptide-2?
Transgenic Silkworm Rh-Oligopeptide-2 is a lab designed version of a natural human protein known as Insulin-Like Growth Factor 1. Scientists insert the human IGF-1 gene into silkworm DNA, turning the silkworm into a living factory that spins the peptide along with its usual silk. The resulting protein is a single-chain peptide of up to 195 amino acids, built only from the 20 standard amino acids and sometimes linked with disulfide bridges or small sugar groups. Once the silk is harvested, the peptide is separated, purified and checked for safety before it reaches cosmetic labs.
The idea of using silkworms this way gained traction in the early 2000s when researchers looked for efficient methods to produce human-like growth factors without relying on costly mammalian cell cultures. Silkworms offered a lower-cost, animal-friendly platform that could turn out large amounts of peptide with consistent quality. As skincare companies searched for next-generation anti-aging and repair actives, Rh-Oligopeptide-2 moved from the research bench into finished formulas.
Today you are most likely to see Transgenic Silkworm Rh-Oligopeptide-2 in leave-on products where prolonged skin contact matters: anti-aging serums, firming lotions, sheet masks, targeted eye creams and high-performance moisturizers. It may also appear in post-procedure soothing gels or intensive overnight treatments that aim to support skin renewal.
Transgenic Silkworm Rh-Oligopeptide-2’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In skin care this peptide is prized for one key role:
Skin conditioning: Rh-Oligopeptide-2 helps skin feel smoother and look more refined. By mimicking the action of natural growth factors it can encourage surface renewal, support a stronger moisture barrier and give skin a plumper more elastic appearance.
Who Can Use Transgenic Silkworm Rh-Oligopeptide-2
Most skin types, including dry, normal and mature, can tolerate Transgenic Silkworm Rh-Oligopeptide-2 well because it is a gentle conditioning peptide rather than an acid or strong retinoid. Very oily or acne-prone skin may want to watch for breakouts if the finished formula is heavy or occlusive, though the peptide itself is not known to clog pores.
Because the peptide is produced by silkworms it is not considered vegan. Vegetarians who avoid insect-derived ingredients may also choose to pass, while others who use honey or beeswax might feel comfortable using it.
No published data shows specific risks for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the peptide is applied topically. Still, this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should show the product to a healthcare professional before use.
The ingredient does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and does not reduce the need for daily sunscreen. It also plays well with common actives like niacinamide and hyaluronic acid, so layering is usually straightforward.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects from topical Transgenic Silkworm Rh-Oligopeptide-2 differ from person to person. The points below describe potential issues that could occur, but they are not likely for the average user when the product is formulated and stored correctly.
- Mild redness or warmth
- Temporary itching or stinging on sensitive skin
- Rare allergic reaction marked by swelling or hives
- Hormone-like activity that could theoretically trigger breakouts in very acne-prone users
- Interaction with other strong actives if applied at the same time, leading to over-stimulated skin
If any of the above reactions occur discontinue use and seek advice from a healthcare professional
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 / 5
Transgenic Silkworm Rh-Oligopeptide-2 is a water-soluble peptide that sits on the skin surface without forming a greasy film or blocking pores, so it earns a non-comedogenic score of 0. The molecule is large and does not slip into follicle openings, plus it is usually added at very low percentages. That makes it an unlikely trigger for blackheads or whiteheads.
This means the ingredient is generally fine for people who break out easily, provided the overall formula is lightweight and oil balanced.
Keep in mind that filler oils, butters or waxes in the same product can raise the final comedogenic load even if the peptide itself stays at zero.
Summary
Transgenic Silkworm Rh-Oligopeptide-2 is a lab-made version of the human growth factor IGF-1 that conditions skin, supports surface renewal and helps maintain a strong moisture barrier for a smoother firmer look. It does this by signaling skin cells in a gentle, skin-friendly way similar to the body’s own peptides.
The ingredient is still a niche player found mainly in premium serums, masks and eye creams, so it has not reached the broad popularity of classics like retinol or vitamin C yet.
Safety data show low irritation risk, no photo sensitivity and a non-comedogenic profile. Even so, everyone’s skin is unique so it is smart to patch test any new product containing this peptide before applying it to the whole face.