Cosmetic & Skin

Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7

Also known as Pal-GQPR · Rigin · Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-3 · Pal-Gly-Gln-Pro-Arg

PreliminaryTopicalNot approved by the FDA as a drug. It is permitted as a cosmetic ingredient in the United States, where cosmetic ingredients are not subject to pre-market FDA approval; the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has concluded it is safe as used in cosmetics at current low concentrations. It is not a controlled substance and is widely available in over-the-counter skincare products. It is not specifically listed on the WADA Prohibited List as a topical cosmetic peptide, though athletes should verify current WADA guidance for any peptide-containing product.

Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 is a synthetic lipopeptide consisting of a four-amino-acid sequence (glycine-glutamine-proline-arginine, Pal-GQPR) derived from a constant-region fragment of the immunoglobulin G (IgG) heavy chain, conjugated to palmitic acid to aid skin penetration; it is marketed under the trade name Rigin and was formerly designated Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-3, the change reflecting an updated INCI nomenclature standard rather than a different molecule. Its proposed mechanism centers on reducing secretion of the pro-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-6 (IL-6) by keratinocytes and fibroblasts, which in turn is thought to lower inflammation-driven activity of matrix metalloproteinases that degrade collagen and elastin. It is most often used in topical anti-aging products and frequently appears alongside Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 in the trademarked complex Matrixyl 3000. Much of the supporting data comes from in-vitro and supplier- or patent-derived studies with small sample sizes rather than large independent randomized controlled trials, so the research base is considered early. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review Panel has assessed it as safe for use in cosmetics at current low use concentrations.

Studied / used for

Investigated for reducing inflammation-associated signs of skin aging by lowering IL-6 cytokine activity
Studied for supporting extracellular matrix stability by limiting collagen- and elastin-degrading enzyme activity
Investigated for improving visible skin firmness, texture, and tone in topical formulations
Studied as a complementary ingredient (with Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1) in anti-aging peptide complexes

Commonly reported side effects

Mild skin irritation or redness commonly reported at the application site
Itching or stinging occasionally reported on application
Localized allergic or sensitization reactions reported in rare cases
Reports are generally infrequent; the Cosmetic Ingredient Review found low irritation and sensitization potential at typical cosmetic use levels

Preliminary. Mostly early or animal studies. This reflects the strength of the research base, not effectiveness or a recommendation.

Not medical advice.

This is an educational reference. Peptalk does not recommend, prescribe, endorse, or rate any compound, and provides no dosing information. Do not start, stop, or change any peptide, hormone, supplement, or therapy based on this page. All clinical decisions must be made with your licensed healthcare provider.

← Back to all compounds