Tetrapeptide-4

Tetrapeptide-4 Related Research

Tetrapeptide-4 is classified as a “signaling peptide”, which implies that it sends signals to cells rather than being an actual part of cellular structure.

Its primary anti-aging action is based on the reconstruction and maintenance of the skin’s extracellular matrix (ECM).

1.Facilitation of Collagen and Elastin Synthesis

The aging process of skin is primarily a breakdown in ECM with particular loss and dysfunction of collagen, elastin, and fibronectin.

The main role of Tetrapeptide-4 is to revert or slow down this ageing process.

A great deal of evidence supports that Tetrapeptide-4 does effectively increase the synthesis of these three vital structural proteins.

By stimulating the synergistic elevation of their levels, Tetrapeptide-4 can fundamentally improve skin structural integrity, reducing wrinkles and making skin more compact and elastic.

2.Stimulates Transforming Growth Factor-β (TGF-β) Release

Numerous studies make it clear that Tetrapeptide-4 binds to specific receptors located on the skin cell membranes, mainly on fibroblasts.

This binding activates intracellular signaling cascades.

The end result of these cascades is the promotion of transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) production.

TGF-β is one of the most important cytokines involved in regulating extracellular matrix synthesis.

It is called the “master switch” controlling the production of collagen, elastin and fibronectin.

3.Increasing fibronectin and glycosaminoglycan production

It also increases the production of both fibronectin and glycosaminoglycans (like hyaluronic acid), which helps skin to be more hydrated, enhances barrier function, and lessens wrinkle depth.

Efficacy data regarding Tetrapeptide-4 are mainly based on in-vitro or small scale human studies provided by suppliers.

Of these, one study frequently referenced by many sources provides preliminary efficacy evidence.

In a clinical study, 28 female volunteers aged 44-66 applied an anti-wrinkle cream containing 60 ppm Tetrapeptide-4.

Subjects used the product once daily for 8 weeks.

The depth of wrinkles was quantified by specialized tools and facial imaging analysis.

The results demonstrated a significant (p<0.05) decrease in periorbital wrinkle depth and crow’s feet following application of the tetrapeptide-4 cream when compared to baseline.

The firmness and contour of the facial skin were noticeably enhanced with no reports of undesirable effects.

This study provides evidence supporting the skin-repairing and anti-aging effects of tetrapeptide-4.

Tetrapeptide-4 is mainly utilized in all types of anti-aging skincare products ranging from serums and face creams to eye creams and neck creams.

It reduces the depth and volume of static and dynamic wrinkles, specifically nasolabial folds and crow’s feet.

At the same time, it helps define jawline, address sagging, and tighten lax skin due to collagen loss after ageing.