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EGF (Epidermal Growth Factor): what it is in skincare

Quick answer: A lab-made signaling protein included to support the look of refreshed, conditioned, resilient-appearing skin.

A lab-made signaling protein included to support the look of refreshed, conditioned, resilient-appearing skin.

What it does

Function: peptide (growth factor). Peptides are signal ingredients formulated to support a firmer, bouncier-looking complexion — a fast-growing K-beauty category.

How to spot it on a label

On a Korean product's INCI list, look for EGF (Epidermal Growth Factor). Ingredients are listed high-to-low by amount, so its position hints at how much is in the formula. See all peptides →

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Related

Copper Peptide (GHK-Cu)Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5Matrixyl (Pal-KTTKS)Argireline (Acetyl Hexapeptide-8)Acetyl Tetrapeptide-5
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✍️ Written & reviewed by the KoreaPlus Editorial team — dermatologist-informed, cosmetic-science researched & source-cited. Last reviewed 2026-06-21.

General educational information using cosmetic structure-function wording — not medical advice. Always patch-test new actives. © KoreaPlus.