Growth-factor signal protein
EGF (Epidermal Growth Factor Oligopeptide)
INCI: sh-Oligopeptide-1·Preliminary evidence
A lab-made or plant-expressed version of epidermal growth factor, a signalling protein, used in prestige serums for the appearance of firmer, smoother-looking skin. It is a large, fragile molecule, so stability and delivery are open questions.
Studied for
- ·The appearance of firmness and a smoother-looking surface
- ·The look of fine lines
How it’s thought to work
Studied for cell-signalling that may support the appearance of renewed-looking skin; topical penetration of so large a protein and finished-product evidence remain early.
Questions
- Do EGF serums work?
- The idea is interesting, but the cosmetic evidence is preliminary, there is no established use level, and EGF is a large protein that is hard to keep stable and hard to deliver into skin. For now it is a promising area to watch rather than a proven active.