EGF
EGF (epidermal growth factor) is a small protein of 53 amino acids that the body naturally uses in skin renewal. Skincare uses a form made by biotechnology, listed in INCI as sh-Oligopeptide-1. It belongs to the peptides, and you will find it mainly in serums for skin that is losing its bounce.
It suits you if you are interested in peptide serums and want one that brings together several conditioning ingredients, knowing that EGF is one of them.
What the evidence shows – and what it does not
EGF is well described in wound-healing medicine, where it is applied to damaged skin. Skincare on intact skin is a different situation: the EGF molecule (about 6 kDa) is much larger than the substances that usually pass through the skin barrier. Reviews of growth factors in skincare describe promising but small studies without long-term data. Promises of lifting or "cell renewal" are therefore out of place for EGF skincare.
How to find EGF on an ingredient list
In cosmetic INCI lists, EGF may appear as sh-Oligopeptide-1. The prefix sh- means synthetic human: recombinant production uses a synthetic copy of a gene corresponding to the human sequence. It does not mean that the ingredient was extracted from human skin or tissue. The INCI name alone does not establish the concentration or clinical effectiveness of the finished product.
How to use EGF in your routine
An EGF serum goes on after toner and before moisturiser, morning and evening. It can be combined with everyday hydrating care and with niacinamide. Follow with SPF in the morning, which matters for firmer-looking skin in the long run.
What to watch out for
Do not apply EGF skincare to broken or irritated skin. Skincare is not wound care. If you are being treated for a skin condition or have just had an aesthetic procedure, ask your doctor about your skincare.
EGF products at VIONE
- Sungboon Editor Silk Peptide EGF Intensive Ampoule – a peptide serum with EGF, silk extract, collagen and niacinamide for skin that is losing its bounce.
- Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Botanical 2GF Ampoule – an ampoule with two growth factors produced using rice, built on black rice extract and hyaluronic acid.
Frequently asked questions
Is EGF in skincare made from human cells?
No. Cosmetic EGF is made recombinantly: a synthetic copy of a gene corresponding to the human sequence is introduced into bacteria, yeast or plants, for example, which then produce the protein. EU cosmetics law bans ingredients of human origin.
EGF or other peptides?
EGF is one of the peptides, not a replacement for them. If you are choosing a serum for skin that is losing its bounce, decide by the whole formula. You will find an overview in our glossary entry on peptides.
You will find care for mature skin in Mature skin 35+.