What it is
sh-Oligopeptide-2 is a synthetic human-identical oligopeptide produced through recombinant biotechnology, where the prefix sh indicates a synthetic version of a human protein sequence. In cosmetics it is used as a skin-conditioning ingredient and is often associated with growth-factor-style messaging in serums and creams. It is a supporting peptide ingredient and does not function as a UV filter.
Safety & warnings
Bioengineered peptides of this type are generally well tolerated at the low levels used in cosmetics. Irritation or sensitization is uncommon but possible, and the finished raw material may include stabilizers or preservatives that contribute to reactions.
Origin & sourcing
Synthetic; manufactured by recombinant biotechnology (typically microbial fermentation) to produce a peptide matching a human protein sequence rather than being extracted from human tissue.
Questions everyone asks
What does the sh prefix mean?
In INCI naming, sh stands for synthetic human, indicating a peptide made by biotechnology to match a human protein sequence rather than sourced from human tissue.
Is sh-Oligopeptide-2 a UV filter?
No. It is a skin-conditioning peptide and does not absorb or block UV; it appears as a supporting ingredient alongside the sunscreen actives.