Science
Mechanism of Action
SH-POLYPEPTIDE-7, a synthetic mimic of human growth hormone (hGH), activates growth hormone receptors (GHR) on fibroblasts. This action promotes fibroblast proliferation, leading to increased production of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) and its binding protein IGFBP-3, which collectively boost collagen and other extracellular matrix components. It also contributes to sebum regulation and general skin protection. SH-OLIGOPEPTIDE-1, or Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF), binds to epidermal growth factor receptors (EGFRs), stimulating cellular survival, differentiation, and proliferation. This process accelerates keratinocyte proliferation and migration, enhances fibroblast viability, regulates sebaceous and sweat gland function, and boosts the synthesis of hyaluronic acid, collagen, elastin, and glycosaminoglycans, all critical for skin repair and structure.
Research
Clinical Evidence
Medium confidenceN/A
Key findings
- 01 Topical EGF serum applied twice daily for 8 weeks resulted in a 73% reduction in melasma, with no reported side effects.
- 02 An EGF cream, applied to half the face over six weeks in a study of 20 subjects, decreased inflammatory acne lesions by 33.5%.
- 03 A serum containing barley bioengineered epidermal growth factor significantly improved the appearance of fine lines, rhytids, skin texture, pore size, and various dyschromatic conditions within the first month, with sustained improvements observed over 3 months.
- 04 sh-Oligopeptide-1 has demonstrated efficacy in promoting wound healing in diabetic patients following laser treatment and in managing Senile purpura.
- 05 An EGF-containing cream led to a significant increase in skin moisture and elasticity, alongside a measurable decrease in transepidermal water loss (TEWL) after one week of application.
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
Clinical studies frequently do not specify the exact concentration used, hindering the determination of an effective dose. Furthermore, cosmetic formulations of sh-oligopeptide-1 often lack proven preclinical bioactivity, suggesting that some products may contain insufficient quantities to elicit a therapeutic effect.
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
SH-OLIGOPEPTIDE-1 is highly sensitive to pH, requiring the final product's pH to be adjusted within the 5.0-8.0 range prior to its incorporation. It is also susceptible to enzymatic degradation by microorganisms, necessitating stringent microbial contamination control during formulation.
Conflicts
- pH outside 5.0-8.0 range (specific to SH-OLIGOPEPTIDE-1)
- Microbial contamination
Safety
Safety Profile
While SH-OLIGOPEPTIDE-1 (EGF) is mitogenic (stimulates cell proliferation) but not mutagenic (does not induce cancerous changes), caution is advised as it may promote the spread of pre-existing cancerous cells. Therefore, individuals with skin cancer risk factors or psoriasis should consult a professional. Active EGF is considered a drug, not a cosmetic ingredient, and its cosmetic form, sh-oligopeptide-1, is authorized in some regions but with unknown long-term risks. It is prohibited as a cosmetic raw material in China. Specific safety assessments by CIR/SCCS for either ingredient individually or in combination are not available. Potential allergenicity for SH-Polypeptide-1 should also be considered.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
This potent growth factor blend offers significant benefits for skin regeneration, anti-aging, and barrier support across various skin types, but requires careful formulation and consideration of safety implications related to its mitogenic activity and lack of long-term risk data.
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