Ingredient
sh-Polypeptide-16
sh-Polypeptide-16 is flagged for pregnancy and PCOS. The concern behind the strongest flag is hormone disruptor and absorbed into the body.
- Recombinant Human IGF-1
- Insulin-Like Growth Factor 1
- rh-IGF-1
Verdict by profile
Truva checks every ingredient against six profiles. Jump to any of them for the full assessment.
- Strongest verdict
- Caution Advised
- Its verdict for pregnancy, the profile this one is worst in
- Profiles flagged
- 2 of 6
- Counting avoid, high risk and medium risk
- Irritancy
- 1 of 5
- Higher means more likely to sting or redden
sh-Polypeptide-16 and pregnancy
Caution Advised
- Hormone disruptor
- Absorbed into the body
- Fetal development
sh-Polypeptide-16 is a synthetic version of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), a hormone that regulates cell growth and development. While peptides typically have poor skin penetration due to their large molecular size, IGF-1 has biological activity that could theoretically affect hormonal pathways. There are no specific studies on topical sh-Polypeptide-16 use during pregnancy. The theoretical concern is that IGF-1 plays a role in fetal growth and development, and systemic levels naturally increase during pregnancy. While topical absorption is likely minimal, the biological potency of growth factors raises uncertainty about potential effects on fetal development, particularly during the first trimester when organ formation occurs. Due to the lack of safety data and the theoretical concerns about growth factor activity during pregnancy, many dermatologists recommend avoiding cosmetic products containing growth factor peptides like sh-Polypeptide-16 as a precautionary measure. While there is no direct evidence of harm, the prudent approach is to postpone use until after delivery.
sh-Polypeptide-16 and breastfeeding
Safe to Use
sh-Polypeptide-16 is a large peptide molecule with limited ability to penetrate beyond the upper layers of skin. While it mimics a naturally occurring growth factor, its size and topical application make systemic absorption and transfer to breast milk highly unlikely. There is no specific data on sh-Polypeptide-16 use during breastfeeding. However, the peptide's large molecular weight (approximately 7.6 kDa) makes it unlikely to pass through skin in significant amounts or reach breast milk. Most lactation experts consider topical peptides to be low risk due to their poor penetration characteristics. While there are no specific restrictions on sh-Polypeptide-16 during breastfeeding, women who prefer to be cautious may choose to avoid application on the chest and breast area. For use on the face and other areas, the risk is considered minimal due to the limited absorption of large peptide molecules.
sh-Polypeptide-16 and postpartum
Safe to Use
sh-Polypeptide-16 can be beneficial for postpartum skin recovery in women who are not breastfeeding. Growth factor peptides support collagen production and skin regeneration, which can help address postpartum changes in skin elasticity and texture. Postpartum women not breastfeeding can safely use sh-Polypeptide-16 without concerns. The ingredient may help improve skin firmness, reduce the appearance of fine lines, and support overall skin recovery after pregnancy. It is generally well-tolerated and suitable for most skin types.
sh-Polypeptide-16 and trying to conceive
Safe to Use
sh-Polypeptide-16 is considered low risk for women trying to conceive. While it mimics a growth factor involved in various physiological processes, topical application results in minimal systemic absorption and is unlikely to affect fertility or hormonal balance in ways that would impact conception. Women trying to conceive who wish to be extra cautious may choose to discontinue sh-Polypeptide-16 once they begin actively trying, given that pregnancy precautions recommend avoiding it. However, there is no evidence that continued use before confirmed pregnancy poses risks to conception or early fetal development.
sh-Polypeptide-16 and PCOS
Caution Advised
- Interferes with hormones
- Affects insulin
sh-Polypeptide-16 mimics insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), which is closely related to insulin signaling pathways. Women with PCOS often have altered insulin sensitivity and elevated IGF-1 levels, which can contribute to symptoms like acne and hirsutism. The theoretical concern with sh-Polypeptide-16 for PCOS is that even topical exposure to IGF-1 analogs could potentially affect insulin-related pathways or worsen androgen-related symptoms. While systemic absorption from topical use is likely minimal, women with PCOS may be more sensitive to factors that influence insulin and growth factor signaling. Due to the limited data and the potential relationship between IGF-1 and PCOS symptoms, some endocrinologists and dermatologists recommend that women with PCOS avoid or use caution with growth factor peptides. Alternative anti-aging ingredients without hormonal activity may be preferable for managing skin concerns in PCOS.
sh-Polypeptide-16 and general use
Safe to Use
sh-Polypeptide-16 is a cosmetic peptide designed to provide anti-aging benefits by mimicking natural growth factors that decline with age. It is used in serums and creams to support skin regeneration, improve firmness, and enhance overall skin appearance. For the general population, sh-Polypeptide-16 is considered safe with minimal risk of adverse effects. Its large molecular size limits skin penetration, and topical use has not been associated with significant safety concerns. Some individuals with sensitive skin may experience mild irritation, but this is uncommon. Recombinant peptides like sh-Polypeptide-16 are approved for use in cosmetics globally. While long-term safety data is still accumulating, current evidence suggests it is well-tolerated and effective for anti-aging purposes when used as directed in cosmetic formulations.
Everything else flagged for the same profiles
Related ingredients
Ingredients suggested in place of sh-Polypeptide-16, each one with its own page here.
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Where this came from
Truva summarises published guidance from bodies including ACOG, the FDA, the EU SCCS and the Cosmetic Ingredient Review. It has no access to your medical history and it is not a substitute for your doctor, dermatologist or midwife. These assessments have not been reviewed by a clinician, and nothing here is a diagnosis or a prescription. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding or being treated for PCOS, take the ingredient list to the person looking after you.
Assessment last pulled from the ingredient database on .
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