What Is Transgenic Silkworm Rh-Polypeptide-47?
Transgenic Silkworm Rh-Polypeptide-47 is a lab made version of a human collagen fragment that is grown inside silkworms. Scientists took the human gene that signals skin cells to build Collagen Alpha 1, slipped it into the silkworm’s DNA then let the silkworm spin the protein along with its own silk. The peptide that comes out is a single chain with up to 1464 amino acids, sometimes linked by disulfide bonds or carrying small sugar groups, yet it follows the exact order of the 20 basic amino acids found in people.
Interest in this technology started in the early 2000s when makers of skin care were looking for purer collagen sources that avoided animal harvest. Silkworms offered a safe, renewable way to make human like collagen without using cows or pigs. Once the production method was refined the cosmetic world adopted the ingredient for its moisture boosting and skin smoothing powers.
Manufacturing begins with collecting silkworm cocoons that contain the recombinant collagen. The cocoons are dissolved, the peptide is pulled out through filtration and gentle purification then dried into a fine powder. This powder is blended into water based solutions that later become creams or serums.
You will most often spot Transgenic Silkworm Rh-Polypeptide-47 in anti-aging moisturizers, hydrating masks, firming eye creams, post-peel soothing gels and luxury serums that promise a plumper look.
Transgenic Silkworm Rh-Polypeptide-47’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Here is what this peptide brings to a skin care formula:
- Humectant: Draws water from the air and deeper skin layers toward the surface so skin feels soft and looks dewy.
- Skin Conditioning: Helps refine skin texture, supports a smoother feel and can reduce the look of fine lines by reinforcing the skin’s own collagen network.
- Emollient: Forms a light film that fills tiny gaps between skin cells which leaves the surface silky and comfortable.
Who Can Use Transgenic Silkworm Rh-Polypeptide-47
This peptide is gentle enough for most skin types including dry, normal, combination and mature skin. Oily and acne prone users can also benefit from its water-attracting powers because it is lightweight and non greasy, though those who break out easily should look for formulas that are oil free.
Very sensitive or highly reactive skin may want to proceed with caution since any large protein can pose a small risk of irritation, yet reports of problems are rare.
Because the peptide is produced in silkworms it is not considered vegan. Vegetarians who avoid insect-derived ingredients may also choose to skip it.
Current data shows no known issues for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the ingredient is used on the skin. Still this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should review their skincare routine with a medical professional to be safe.
The peptide does not make skin more prone to sunburn and there is no evidence of photosensitivity. Standard daytime sun protection is still recommended as part of good skincare practice.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Experiences can differ from person to person. The points below cover possible but uncommon reactions when the peptide is applied to the skin. In well-made products most people will not run into these issues.
- Mild redness or warmth at the application site
- Temporary itching or tingling as the product settles
- Flare-up of existing dermatitis in extremely sensitive users
- Allergic response in individuals who are allergic to silk or insect proteins
- Small surface breakouts in acne prone skin if the overall formula is too rich
If any lasting irritation or discomfort occurs stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 – 1
Transgenic Silkworm Rh-Polypeptide-47 is a large water-loving protein that dissolves in the watery phase of a formula rather than sitting on the skin like an oil. Its molecular size keeps it from sliding into pores and clogging them, so it scores at the very bottom of the comedogenic scale.
That makes it generally suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin, provided the rest of the product is also lightweight.
Keep in mind that rich creams or heavy oils paired with the peptide can still trigger congestion, so always look at the full ingredient list when shopping.
Summary
Transgenic Silkworm Rh-Polypeptide-47 acts as a humectant by pulling moisture toward the skin surface, as a skin conditioner by supporting the natural collagen network and as an emollient by forming a thin, silky film that smooths rough patches.
Its use is still niche, mostly showing up in higher-end serums and creams that market themselves as biotech or luxury, yet the ingredient is gaining attention as consumers look for animal-free collagen alternatives.
Current research and in-market experience point to a high safety profile with very low irritation or allergy rates, but everyone’s skin is unique so it is smart to do a quick patch test when trying any new product that contains this peptide.