What is Rh-Polypeptide-51?
Rh-Polypeptide-51 is a single chain recombinant human peptide that is used in the cosmetic industry for its antioxidant and skin-protecting properties. It is also known by other names such as Extracellular Superoxide Dismutase [Cu-Zn]. This ingredient is unique in its composition, containing a maximum of 240 amino acids which may include disulfide bonds and/or glycosylation. The protein is made up of the proper sequence of the 20 standard amino acids.
The history of Rh-Polypeptide-51 in cosmetics traces back to its production through the process of fermentation in E. coli. The starting gene for this ingredient is directly isolated from a human cell, which codes for Extracellular Superoxide Dismutase [Cu-Zn]. This gene is then used as is or adapted to the production host, resulting in the creation of Rh-Polypeptide-51.
When compared to similar ingredients used for the same purposes, Rh-Polypeptide-51 stands out due to its unique production process and its specific composition of amino acids. While other ingredients may also offer antioxidant and skin-protecting benefits, Rh-Polypeptide-51 is derived from a human gene, making it a unique addition to the list of cosmetic ingredients.
Rh-Polypeptide-51 is typically used in a variety of cosmetic products, including moisturizers and serums. Its antioxidant properties make it an excellent ingredient for products aimed at protecting the skin from environmental stressors, while its skin-protecting benefits make it a popular choice for products designed to nourish and care for the skin.
Benefits and Uses
In this section, we will delve into the officially recognized benefits and uses of Rh-Polypeptide-51:
Antioxidant Properties
As an antioxidant, Rh-Polypeptide-51 plays a crucial role in protecting the skin from harmful free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can cause damage to your skin cells, leading to premature aging and other skin issues. By neutralizing these free radicals, Rh-Polypeptide-51 helps to maintain the health and vitality of your skin, keeping it looking youthful and radiant.
Skin Protecting
Another official function of Rh-Polypeptide-51 is its skin-protecting properties. This ingredient helps to strengthen the skin’s natural barrier, which is essential for keeping out harmful environmental factors like UV rays and pollutants. A strong skin barrier also helps to lock in moisture, keeping your skin hydrated and supple. Therefore, products containing Rh-Polypeptide-51 can help to protect your skin from damage, while also improving its overall appearance and texture.
It’s important to note that these benefits are based on the officially recognized and defined functions of Rh-Polypeptide-51. There may be other potential benefits and uses of this ingredient that go beyond the scope of its official functions. However, these additional benefits are not officially recognized and should be considered with caution until further research is conducted.
Safety Profile
As per the available data, Rh-Polypeptide-51 is not a banned or regulated ingredient in cosmetics. It is generally considered safe for use in skincare and cosmetic products. However, like any ingredient, it may not suit everyone’s skin type and can potentially cause allergic reactions in some individuals.
While it is generally well-tolerated, potential side effects of topical application of Rh-Polypeptide-51 may include:
- Redness
- Itching
- Skin irritation
A note for women who are pregnant and/or breastfeeding – There is currently insufficient data on the safety of topical use of Rh-Polypeptide-51 during pregnancy or breastfeeding. As a precaution, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional before using products containing this ingredient during these periods.
Adverse reactions to Rh-Polypeptide-51 are not common, but as with any new skincare product, it is recommended to perform a patch test before widespread usage to ensure there is no adverse reaction.
This ingredient analysis has been commissioned by Truth In Skincare (TiS), an independent industry regulator. The analysis was conducted by a TiS-appointed industry consultant whose sources include CosIng (Cosmetic Ingredient Database – by the European Commission), the Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), The US Food & Drug Administration (FDA) as well as other various publicly available sources.
