Best For Skin Types
All, Mature, Dry
Addresses
Usage Frequency
Daily
What Is Sh-Polypeptide-71?
Sh-Polypeptide-71 is a peptide—a short chain of amino acids—derived from natural sources and designed to condition both skin and hair. Peptides are fragments of proteins, and this particular ingredient functions as a skin and hair conditioning agent, meaning it works to improve texture, smoothness, and overall appearance of the outer layers.
In skincare formulations, conditioning agents help to soften the skin surface, improve moisture retention, and create a more uniform feel. Peptides are of particular interest in anti-ageing skincare because the skin naturally contains abundant protein structures (primarily collagen) that diminish with age, and peptide-based ingredients are thought to support the skin's existing structural components.
How It Works
Sh-Polypeptide-71 works primarily as a conditioning agent by forming a protective layer on the skin surface. This layer helps to trap moisture and creates a smoother, more refined appearance. The peptide structure allows it to interact with the skin's existing proteins and support the integrity of the dermal-epidermal junction.
Because skin naturally loses collagen and epidermal thickness with age, peptide ingredients are included in formulations with the aim of reinforcing the skin's protein matrix. Whilst peptides cannot replace lost collagen directly, they may help optimise the environment in which the skin maintains its structural proteins.
Clinical Evidence & References
Research into skin ageing demonstrates that loss of dermal collagen and epidermal thinning are central to age-related skin changes, including wrinkles, laxity, and impaired barrier function. Peptide-based ingredients are included in anti-ageing formulations on the basis that they support skin's natural protein structures, though direct clinical evidence specific to Sh-Polypeptide-71 is limited in the published literature.
General evidence supports the use of conditioning peptides for improving skin texture and hydration. However, the degree to which any individual peptide ingredient influences deeper collagen synthesis or long-term structural changes remains an area where evidence is incomplete. Most benefits observed are likely to be surface-level conditioning effects rather than systemic protein remodelling.
How to Use
Sh-Polypeptide-71 is typically found in serums, moisturisers, and leave-on treatments. For best results, apply to clean, damp skin and follow with a moisturiser to lock in hydration. It works well in layered routines and poses no particular compatibility issues with other actives, though as with any new ingredient, introduce it gradually to monitor tolerance.
Safety & Precautions
Frequently Asked Questions
From the Clinic
Not sure what your skin actually needs?
Two minutes, a few questions, and we’ll point you at what matters — no guesswork.
Take the skin quizRelated Ingredients
Sh-Polypeptide-62
A peptide-derived ingredient that supports skin structure and antioxidant defence
Sh-Polypeptide-64
A peptide ingredient that combines antioxidant and skin-conditioning properties
Sh-Polypeptide-7
A peptide derivative that supports skin's protective barrier and sebum regulation
Sh-Polypeptide-77
A peptide derivative that supports skin conditioning and structural integrity
Sh-Polypeptide-8
A peptide that supports skin hydration and structural conditioning
Sh-Polypeptide-82
A peptide that helps support skin's structural integrity and conditioning
Learn More About Skincare Ingredients
Explore our comprehensive ingredient glossary to understand what's in your products.
Browse All IngredientsShop Our Products
Find professional skincare solutions at Skintique.