Science
Mechanism of Action
The primary mechanism of S-HIV-1 OLIGOPEPTIDE-7 SH-OLIGOPEPTIDE-1 SP is attributed to SH-Oligopeptide-1, a cellular signaling molecule that stimulates the growth, proliferation, and differentiation of epidermal cells. This action is crucial for enhancing collagen synthesis, which in turn improves skin firmness, elasticity, and visibly reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It also plays a role in accelerating wound healing, supporting natural skin renewal, and strengthening the skin's protective barrier, contributing to overall dermal integrity.
Research
Clinical Evidence
Low confidenceN/A
Key findings
- 01 In an 8-week study, 73% of subjects experienced a decrease in melasma with twice-daily application of a topical EGF serum, observing no adverse effects.
- 02 A study involving 20 subjects demonstrated a 33.5% reduction in inflammatory acne lesions over six weeks following the application of an EGF cream.
- 03 After 30 days of twice-daily application, a product containing SH-Oligopeptide-1 led to significant improvements in 20 healthy women (35-55 years old), including an 11.8% increase in skin elasticity, 2.5% in luminosity, 110% in brightness, a 6.3% decrease in sagging, and a 10.2% increase in hydration.
- 04 A 2012 study on a serum incorporating barley bioengineered EGF reported statistically significant improvements in fine lines, rhytids, skin texture, pore size, and various dyschromatic conditions within the first month, with sustained improvement over 3 months.
- 05 Conversely, some scientific assessments state that clinical studies on cosmetic sh-oligopeptide-1 lack a proven scientific basis, suggesting the molecule's preclinical bioactivity is unconfirmed or may pertain to unauthorized drug forms of EGF.
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
The provided research data does not specify common cosmetic formulation concentrations for S-HIV-1 OLIGOPEPTIDE-7 SH-OLIGOPEPTIDE-1 SP, preventing an assessment of whether it is typically 'dusted' at ineffective levels.
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
Oligopeptide-1 is highly sensitive to pH, necessitating that formulations incorporating it are adjusted to a pH range of 5-8 to maintain its activity. Its stability is compromised at room temperature, with only 5-10% remaining active compared to storage at -20°C. Furthermore, it is susceptible to enzymatic decomposition by microorganisms, which can lead to a loss of efficacy.
Safety
Safety Profile
S-HIV-1 OLIGOPEPTIDE-7 SH-OLIGOPEPTIDE-1 SP has not undergone review by the CIR or SCCS. While the European Cosmetics Regulation approves its use in cosmetics, and EWG Skin Deep does not list it as restricted, the FDA has not deemed products containing sh-oligopeptide-1 as a drug to be safe and effective, nor has it evaluated its cosmetic use. Generally, topical application is considered safe with rare adverse reactions, though a sensitivity test is advised for reactive skin. However, concerns exist regarding its mitogenic (cell-increasing) activity; thus, individuals at risk of skin cancer or with conditions like psoriasis are advised to avoid use, despite it not being classified as mutagenic. Some sources also highlight 'unknown long-term risks' and links to psoriasis and skin irritation from excessive cell production in early testing.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
Despite numerous reported benefits in various studies, the cosmetic efficacy of SH-Oligopeptide-1 lacks a robust scientific basis, with significant questions raised regarding its proven bioactivity and potential unknown long-term risks, warranting cautious consideration.
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References
Sources