sh-Polypeptide-59 for Hair Regrowth - Quick Reference Sheet
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sh-Polypeptide-59 for Hair Regrowth

Created on 07/08/2026 – Quick Reference based on Evidence Review created using AI4L / Opus 4.8 – Audit

A lab-made copy of a human growth-factor protein, added to leave-on scalp serums to revive thinning hair. The biological rationale is reasonable and supported by lab and animal work, but no human study shows it regrows hair, and it may be too large to reach its target through intact skin. An unproven, early-stage cosmetic option. (Full Review)

Protocol

Application
1–2× daily
To clean, dry scalp
With Microneedling
1–2× weekly
In-clinic microneedle or mesotherapy delivery
Formulation
Leave-on serum
One of several recombinant growth factors; concentration rarely disclosed
Time to effect
Visible Change
3–6 months
Minimum window of consistent use

Benefits

Contraindications
  • Pregnancy or breastfeeding
  • Personal history of scalp or skin cancer
  • Actinic keratoses or pre-malignant lesions in treatment field
  • Active scalp infection (tinea capitis, bacterial folliculitis)
  • Active inflammatory scalp disease
  • Known hypersensitivity to the product
    •
Key Interactions
  • Topical minoxidil
  • Topical retinoids (tretinoin, adapalene) and chemical exfoliants (salicylic acid, glycolic acid)
  • Topical corticosteroids
  • Microneedling, low-level laser therapy, platelet-rich plasma
  • Other recombinant growth-factor or peptide serums
    •

Risk & Side Effects

  • High:
  • Medium:
  • Low: Local skin irritation and contact dermatitis; malignancy-mortality signal from the same molecule
    •
  • Speculative: Fibrosis or excess scar-tissue formation; immunogenicity to a recombinant protein; stimulation of pre-existing skin lesions; infection or folliculitis with microneedle-assisted delivery
    •

Monitoring

Marker Target Why
Ferritin 40–70 ng/mL Low iron stores are a common, correctable cause of hair shedding
Vitamin D (25-hydroxyvitamin D) 40–60 ng/mL Deficiency is linked to hair-cycle disruption
TSH 0.5–2.5 mIU/L Thyroid dysfunction is a reversible driver of diffuse hair loss
Total and free testosterone Sex- and age-specific reference Provides hormonal context for pattern hair loss
Zinc 90–120 µg/dL Deficiency can contribute to shedding and poor follicle function
Complete blood count (hemoglobin) Mid-normal for sex Screens for anemia that can worsen hair loss

Cadence: Baseline standardized photos, then reassess at about 3 and 6 months, and every 6–12 months thereafter

Qualitative Assessment

  • Hair density and part width compared with baseline photos
  • Daily or weekly shedding counts
  • Gentle hair-pull test trend over time
  • Subjective texture, coverage, and styling ease
  • Absence of scalp irritation, new lesions, or signs of infection
Not medical advice. Educational distillation of a single evidence review. Confirm any decision with a qualified clinician, especially in the presence of prescription drugs or chronic conditions.