INCI: sh-Oligopeptide-1
53-amino-acid peptide that stimulates keratinocyte and fibroblast proliferation. Used in post-procedure care and anti-aging products.
Topical application
CWeak evidence. In vitro data, open-label studies, or expert consensus.
Small clinical studies show improved wound healing and skin texture. Penetration through intact stratum corneum is limited by the large molecular size. Long-term safety of systemic exposure is not established.
Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF, INCI sh-Oligopeptide-1) is a 53-amino-acid polypeptide discovered by Stanley Cohen in 1962 (Nobel Prize 1986). In the body EGF is produced by salivary glands, platelets, and monocytes; it triggers a cell division and tissue regeneration cascade. Mechanism. Binds the EGFR receptor on the cell surface, activates the tyrosine kinase domain, and triggers MAPK, PI3K/Akt, JAK/STAT pathways. On skin it stimulates keratinocyte and fibroblast proliferation, increases collagen and hyaluronic acid synthesis, accelerates wound re-epithelialization. The recombinant form (sh-Oligopeptide-1) is produced in E. coli or Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast. Where applied. Anti-aging serums and creams, post-procedure recovery products (after microneedling, fractional laser, chemical peels), scar and post-acne pigmentation products. In Spain – Skinmedica TNS Essential Serum, DermaQuest Stem Cell 3D, niche Korean brands (e.g. lin life, Eunyul). Evidence base. Mehta 2008 open-label study in 22 women with photoaging: 0.005% EGF serum improved fine lines and skin density at 12 weeks. Post-procedure RCTs (Wang 2017) confirmed faster barrier recovery after fractional CO2 laser. Base data on keratinocyte cultures and wound models – extensive. Controversies and cancer risk. EGFR signaling is active in several epithelial tumors (non-small cell lung cancer, gastric cancer, head and neck cancer). On this basis some dermatologists consider topical EGF contraindicated in patients with active oncology or high cancer risk. No direct evidence of topical EGF carcinogenicity – but caution is justified. In actinic keratosis and basal cell carcinoma patients – don't use. Safety. Irritation and allergies with short-term use are rare. Systemic absorption through intact skin is very low. Pregnancy and lactation – don't use. No embryotoxic data, but because of EGF's role in embryonic development and tissue formation it is not recommended by consensus. Best suited to: mature skin without oncological history, post-procedure recovery after aggressive manipulations, scars. Not for patients with precancerous skin changes.
Irritation potential
LowAllergen risk
LowThe Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to Wildberries, Goldapple, Letu, iHerb, Sephora and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Safety data for Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF) during pregnancy is insufficient. Best avoided when in doubt.
Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF) suits: normal, dry, sensitive, combination.
53-amino-acid peptide that stimulates keratinocyte and fibroblast proliferation.
The INCI name is sh-Oligopeptide-1. It may also appear as: Epidermal Growth Factor, EGF, Oligopeptide-1.
Published: · updated:
Pregnancy
Suitable for