Acetyl Sh-Tetrapeptide-1

INCI: ACETYL SH-TETRAPEPTIDE-1

Also known as: Acetyl Sh-tetrapeptide-1

A peptide that supports skin conditioning and cellular resilience

At a glance

Peptide

Best For Skin Types

All, Mature, Sensitive

Addresses

Fine lines, Hydration, Barrier repair, Dryness

Usage Frequency

Daily

What Is Acetyl Sh-Tetrapeptide-1?

Acetyl Sh-Tetrapeptide-1 is a synthetic peptide—a short chain of amino acids—designed to function as a skin conditioning agent. Peptides are fragments of proteins that can penetrate the outer layers of skin and communicate with cells to support various physiological processes.

This ingredient works at a cellular level to help maintain skin's structural integrity and support its natural repair mechanisms, making it a supporting player in formulations aimed at maintaining skin health and resilience.

How It Works

Peptides like this one work by signalling to skin cells, influencing cellular processes that govern repair, hydration and structural maintenance. Once absorbed into the skin, the peptide can interact with cellular machinery involved in managing stress responses and maintaining the skin barrier.

The research suggests connections to enzymatic pathways that regulate cellular ageing and wound repair—though the specific mechanism of this particular peptide in cosmetic formulations requires further investigation to fully characterise its effects in real-world use.

Clinical Evidence & References

Research into related peptide pathways indicates that certain cellular mechanisms—particularly those involving deacetylation enzymes and stress response proteins—play important roles in skin resilience, wound healing and cellular senescence. Studies suggest these processes are relevant to skin ageing and repair.

However, direct clinical evidence specific to Acetyl Sh-Tetrapeptide-1 in skincare products is limited. The ingredient's efficacy in cosmetic concentrations warrants further research to confirm its measurable benefits in human skin when used topically.

How to Use

This ingredient is typically found in serums, moisturisers and targeted treatment products. Apply to clean skin, either alone or layered with other products depending on the formulation. Allow time for absorption before applying sunscreen or makeup. Consistent use over weeks is more likely to yield visible results than sporadic application.

Safety & Precautions

Peptides are generally well-tolerated by most skin types. As with any new ingredient, patch test first if you have particularly sensitive or reactive skin.

Regulatory information

Standardised cosmetic-ingredient identifiers used by regulators.

Show identifiers
INCI Name
ACETYL SH-TETRAPEPTIDE-1
Function
Skin Conditioning

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