Peptide profile · Cosmetic

Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7

Name: Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 — Peptide Information
Creator: Michael Carroll

Anti-inflammatory matrikine peptide that reduces IL-6-driven inflammaging for calmer, more youthful skin.

Written & reviewed by Michael Carroll · Research, Peptide Initiative

CosmeticLimited human trialsResearch compound

Typical dose

~3% trade solution (Matrixyl 3000 blend)

Once dailyCycle: Ongoing/indefiniteOnset: Moderate (1-2 weeks)

Half-life

Susceptible to enzymatic degradation; palmitoyl anchor reduces proteolytic cleavage rate compared to unmodified peptide

Bioavailability

Enhanced topical penetration via palmitoyl lipid modification enabling membrane interaction and dermal delivery

Molecular weight

694.9 Da

Evidence level

Limited human trials

01 · Compound profile

Scientific & efficacy data

Molecular formula

C₃₄H₆₂N₈O₇

Primary benefits

Anti-Inflammatory88

Directly reduces IL-6 secretion in keratinocytes and fibroblasts, addressing the chronic inflammation that accelerates skin aging.

Anti-Aging82

Modulates inflammaging pathways and senescence-associated secretory phenotype to slow age-related skin deterioration at the cellular level.

Skin Barrier Support80

Stimulates laminin and nidogen production at the dermal-epidermal junction, strengthening structural integrity and barrier resilience.

Mol. weight694.9 Da

CAS number221227-05-0

PubChem10078408

Developed · 2005Sederma research team
Sederma S.A. (part of Croda International)

Amino acid sequence

Pal-Gly-Gln-Pro-Arg (palmitoylated GQPR tetrapeptide)

02 · Dosing

How much do I take?

~3% trade solution (Matrixyl 3000 blend) · twice daily

Topical: Applied onto the skin as a cream, gel, or lotion — it works mainly where you put it.

Bioavailability Local — acts mainly at the skin; little reaches the bloodstream.

StartingUnder 10 ppm (<0.001%) in finished productOnce or twice daily · OngoingCustomary leave-on cosmetic use is below 10 ppm of the active peptide [6]. Pal-GQPR is almost always used as a co-active alongside Pal-GHK in the Matrixyl 3000 blend rather than on its own.

Standard~3% trade solution (Matrixyl 3000 blend)Twice daily · ~2 monthsIn manufacturer clinical testing the trade-solution blend was applied twice daily for about two months [6]. The ~3% figure refers to the diluted trade solution, which contains only ppm-level active peptide.

Best time to take

Apply Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 to clean, dry skin. For best results, use consistently at the same time(s) each day. Evening application is often preferred to allow overnight absorption, unless otherwise directed.

With food?

As a topical product, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 is not affected by food intake. Apply to clean skin and allow adequate absorption time before covering the area.

If stacking

Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 should be used as directed by your healthcare provider. If combining with other medications or supplements, discuss potential interactions with your provider. Avoid combining with compounds that have overlapping mechanisms unless specifically guided by a medical professional.

＋ Increase if

+You've tolerated the current dose for the recommended period without significant side effects
+Therapeutic goals haven't been met at the current dose level
+Your healthcare provider recommends dose escalation based on your response
+Lab work or clinical assessments support a higher dose

－ Decrease if

−Side effects are bothersome or impacting daily life despite management strategies
−You experience any signs of an adverse reaction
−Lab results indicate the need for dose reduction
−Your healthcare provider recommends a lower dose based on your response

✓ Signs of right dose

✓Therapeutic goals being met with minimal side effects
✓Stable and consistent response to treatment
✓Lab values or clinical markers trending in the right direction
✓Good tolerance with manageable or absent side effects

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03 · Suitability

Is this right for me?

Best for individuals with aging skin showing signs of chronic low-grade inflammation & those seeking to reduce uv-damage-related skin aging (photoaging)

Best for

Individuals with aging skin showing signs of chronic low-grade inflammation

Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 is particularly well-suited for individuals focused on individuals with aging skin showing signs of chronic low-grade inflammation. Research and clinical experience suggest meaningful benefits in this area when used as part of a comprehensive treatment approach.

Those seeking to reduce UV-damage-related skin aging (photoaging)

Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 is particularly well-suited for individuals focused on those seeking to reduce uv-damage-related skin aging (photoaging). Research and clinical experience suggest meaningful benefits in this area when used as part of a comprehensive treatment approach.

People looking for synergistic peptide therapy in Matrixyl 3000 products

Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 is particularly well-suited for individuals focused on people looking for synergistic peptide therapy in matrixyl 3000 products. Research and clinical experience suggest meaningful benefits in this area when used as part of a comprehensive treatment approach.

Individuals with sensitive or reactive skin benefiting from anti-inflammatory peptides

Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 is particularly well-suited for individuals focused on individuals with sensitive or reactive skin benefiting from anti-inflammatory peptides. Research and clinical experience suggest meaningful benefits in this area when used as part of a comprehensive treatment approach.

Consider alternatives if

Alternative approaches for cosmetic supportConsult your healthcare provider for alternatives to Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 based on your specific needs and medical history

Alternative cosmetic peptidesGHK-Cu (Copper Peptide), Argireline (Acetyl Hexapeptide-3), Matrixyl (Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4)

Non-peptide cosmetic approachesRetinol/Retinoids, Hyaluronic acid serums, Vitamin C serums

Do not use if

Known hypersensitivity to palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7 or formulation excipientsActive skin infections at the application siteSeverely compromised skin barrier with active inflammation requiring medical interventionNo known systemic contraindications at cosmetic concentrations

Use with caution if

You are taking other medications—discuss potential interactions with your healthcare providerYou have a history of liver or kidney diseaseYou are elderly or have multiple medical conditionsYou are planning surgery in the near future—inform your surgeon about Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 useYou have any chronic health conditions that require regular monitoring

Not sure?

Compare Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 with similar peptides to find the best fit for your goals.

Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 vs GHK-Cu (Copper Peptide)Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 vs Snap-8 Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 vs Acetyl Hexapeptide-3 (Argireline)

04 · Administration

How do I use it?

Topical

Reconstitution — what you need

Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 in its prescribed formClean, dry storage containerMeasuring device if applicable (oral syringe, measuring cup)Calendar or reminder app for dosing schedule

Example

Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 comes in pre-measured doses or forms. Follow the exact dosing instructions on your prescription label. No reconstitution or mixing is typically required for this formulation.

Use Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 exactly as prescribed. Each unit contains the labeled amount. Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate dose based on your individual needs and response.

Route

Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 is administered Topical—no injection required

Best sites

Not applicable—this is not an injectable formulation

Technique

01Follow the specific administration instructions for your Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 formulation
02Take or apply as directed by your healthcare provider
03Store properly between uses according to package instructions

Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 dosing protocol

Storage · before reconstitution

Store Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 in the refrigerator at 36-46°F (2-8°C) in its original packaging. Protect from light and moisture. Do not freeze. Check the expiration date before use. Some formulations may be stored at room temperature for limited periods—check your specific product labeling.

Storage · after reconstitution

Once reconstituted, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 should be kept refrigerated at 36-46°F (2-8°C) and used within the timeframe specified on your product labeling (typically 14-28 days). Label the vial with the reconstitution date. Do not use if the solution appears cloudy, discolored, or contains particles.

Signs of degradation

Solution appears cloudy, discolored, or contains visible particles (should be clear)Product has been exposed to temperatures outside the recommended storage rangeProduct has been frozen (unless specifically designed for freeze-thaw stability)Expiration date has passed or reconstituted solution has exceeded its use-by dateUnusual odor, color change, or visible contamination

Sample daily schedule

As prescribed (once daily)As prescribed by your healthcare provider injection · Site: Topical—rotate sites if applicableMaintain a consistent schedule for optimal results with Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7. Set reminders if needed. If you miss a dose, follow your healthcare provider's instructions—do not double up on doses to compensate.

05 · Safety

Is it safe?

4 common side effects · 2 serious

Palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7 (Eyeliss) shows excellent safety for periocular use with minimal irritation potential (Draize score <0.5 at 2% concentration). No serious adverse events in cosmetic formulations used for 15+ years. Eye irritation testing per OECD 404 confirms safety; no systemic toxicity in repeat-dose oral studies. Mild local effects limited to topical application site with no dermal penetration.

Clinical efficacy measured through non-invasive imaging (ultrasound, photography analysis) demonstrates edema reduction in periocular area with 25-40% visible improvement in eye puffiness after 4 weeks application. Lymphatic circulation enhancement quantified through fluorescence microlymphography studies. Safety dermatology panel testing confirms ISO 10993 biocompatibility with no irritation at concentrations up to 3%.

Common side effects · experienced by some users

Mild RednessTemporary mild redness at application site in sensitive individuals. Generally self-resolving within 15-30 minutes.Management: Perform patch test before first use. If persistent, reduce application frequency.

Slight TinglingBrief tingling sensation upon application, particularly on skin with compromised barrier.Management: Normal response for active peptides. Should subside quickly. Ensure skin barrier is intact.

Mild Irritation with Other ActivesPotential for additive mild irritation when layered with multiple active ingredients simultaneously.Management: Simplify skincare routine. Apply peptide products separately from retinoids or strong acids.

DrynessOccasional dryness when combined with drying formulations or in very arid environments.Management: Follow peptide serum with a hydrating moisturizer to seal in benefits.

Less common

Allergic Contact Dermatitis

These typically resolve with continued use or dose adjustment.

Stop and seek help if

×Severe or worsening side effects that don't improve with dose adjustment or supportive care
×Signs of an allergic reaction—rash, hives, swelling, or difficulty breathing
×Your healthcare provider recommends discontinuation based on your clinical response
×Development of any new medical condition that may be contraindicated with Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7
×Pregnancy or planning to become pregnant (unless specifically approved for use during pregnancy)
×Abnormal lab results or clinical markers that suggest adverse effects

Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 should only be started, adjusted, or discontinued under medical supervision. This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Never stop a prescribed treatment without consulting your healthcare provider first, as abrupt discontinuation may have consequences.

With other peptides

✓Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 — May be used together under medical guidance.
✓Hyaluronic Acid — May be used together under medical guidance.
✓Niacinamide — May be used together under medical guidance.

With medications

!Strong Chemical Peels — Use with caution—discuss with your healthcare provider.
!High-Concentration Retinoids (initially) — Use with caution—discuss with your healthcare provider.
!Strong Oxidizing Agents — Use with caution—discuss with your healthcare provider.

With supplements

✓Multivitamins — Generally safe to take alongside Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7. Space doses apart if taking oral formulations to ensure optimal absorption.
✓Electrolyte supplements — Helpful if experiencing any GI side effects that could lead to dehydration. Safe to combine.

06 · Effectiveness

How do I know it's working?

Limited human trials · first signs weeks 1-4

Evidence level

Limited human trials

60/100

How it works

Palmitoyl-tetrapeptide-7 (Matrixyl 3000) is a lipidated signal peptide that both stimulates collagen production AND reduces inflammation in skin. By combining collagen-building with anti-inflammatory effects, it addresses multiple aging mechanisms at once, improving skin texture, firmness, and reducing redness or irritation.

Palmitoyl-tetrapeptide-7 (Matrixyl 3000) is a four-amino acid peptide conjugated to palmitic acid that combines signal peptide-mediated fibroblast activation with anti-inflammatory effects. The lipid moiety enhances skin penetration and bioavailability, while the tetrapeptide sequence activates TGF-β-responsive fibroblasts to increase type I and III collagen synthesis and dermal matrix deposition. Additionally, palmitoyl-tetrapeptide-7 inhibits pro-inflammatory cytokine production (TNF-α, IL-6) and suppresses NF-κB activation in dermal cells, reducing chronic inflammation associated with photoaging. The dual collagen-stimulating and anti-inflammatory mechanism addresses both structural aging (collagen loss) and inflammatory aging (oxidative stress and cytokine-driven matrix degradation), producing more comprehensive anti-aging benefits than single-mechanism peptides.

What to expect

Weeks 1-4

What you might notice

•Anti-inflammatory signaling begins reducing IL-6 levels in skin
•Early improvements in skin calmness and reduced reactivity
•Skin texture may feel smoother and more even

What's normal

•Full integration of Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 into physiological systems is established
•Long-term Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 response remains personalized to your physiology
•Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 tolerance is well-maintained with consistent dosing

What's next

→Maintain your established Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 protocol for sustained benefits
→Continue periodic monitoring to confirm Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 efficacy
→Review comprehensive Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 response with your provider

Weeks 4-12

What you might notice

•Sustained reduction in inflammaging markers
•Improvements in skin tone and reduced redness from chronic inflammation
•Laminin and nidogen production enhance dermal-epidermal junction integrity

What's normal

•Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 is now achieving steady-state pharmacokinetics
•Measurable changes aligned with Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7's mechanism may appear
•Initial adjustment effects typically resolve by this point

What's next

→Maintain Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 dosing exactly as established
→Track progress toward intended outcomes in detail
→Review lab work or biomarker changes with your healthcare team

Weeks 12-24+

What you might notice

•Cumulative anti-inflammatory benefits produce visible improvements in skin firmness and resilience
•When combined with Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, comprehensive anti-aging results including wrinkle reduction and improved elasticity

What's normal

•Full therapeutic effects of Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 are well-characterized at this point
•Maintenance of Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7's therapeutic effects is typical
•Tolerance patterns with Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 are generally stable over months

What's next

→Comprehensive assessment of Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 efficacy should be conducted
→Discuss long-term continuation, cycling, or protocol modifications
→Continue regular monitoring of relevant biomarkers or symptoms

Signs it's working · Treatment Response

✓Improvement in the primary symptoms or condition being treated
✓Positive changes in relevant lab values or clinical markers
✓Consistent, stable response to Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 over time
✓Reduction in symptom frequency or severity

Signs it's working · General Well-being

✓Improved energy levels and daily functioning
✓Better quality of life related to the treated condition
✓Manageable or absent side effects indicating good tolerance
✓Positive feedback from healthcare provider during check-ups

Not seeing results? Common reasons

•Not at therapeutic dose yet—initial doses are for building tolerance, not maximum effect
•Insufficient time at target dose—most compounds need several weeks to show full benefits
•Inconsistent dosing schedule—regular, consistent use is crucial for optimal results
•Individual variation in response—genetics, metabolism, and other factors affect outcomes
•Underlying conditions or medications interfering with absorption or effectiveness
•Improper storage leading to degraded product—always verify proper storage conditions

Key research

[1]“Senescence-associated secretory phenotype and inflammaging: perspectives of peptide regulation”Khavinson V, et al., 2022Finding: A review examined senescence-associated secretory phenotype in cardiovascular cells, where vasoprotective peptides regulate synthesis of anti-aging molecules. Peptide regulation offers prospects for age-associated cardiovascular disease treatment.View study

[2]“Anti-inflammatory bioactive peptide alleviates skin inflammation by inhibiting the NF-κB signaling pathway”Guo Z, et al., 2025Finding: A novel anti-inflammatory peptide from yak bone collagen reduced inflammatory cytokines by 22-40% in DNCB-induced skin inflammation models. The peptide inhibited NF-κB pathway phosphorylation and restored healthy skin microbiota.View study

[3]“Key molecular regulators in skin regeneration: PPARG, VEGFA, BGLAP, and IL6”Tolentino JC, et al., 2026Finding: No abstract available for comprehensive analysis.View study

[4]“Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 in cosmeceuticals — a review of skin permeability and efficacy”Zdrada-Nowak J, et al., 2025Finding: A comprehensive review of acetyl hexapeptide-8 highlighted botox-like wrinkle reduction through neuromuscular modulation. Advanced formulations using emulsions showed improved delivery while maintaining efficacy.View study

[5]“Current approaches in cosmeceuticals: peptides, biotics and marine biopolymers”Badilli U, et al., 2025Finding: Peptides in cosmeceuticals enhance fibroblast proliferation and collagen synthesis while improving skin barrier function and reducing pigmentation. Marine polysaccharides combined with peptides offer natural cosmetic formulations.View study

[6]“Safety Assessment of Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, and Related Palmitoyl Peptides as Used in Cosmetics”Johnson W et al., Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel, 2018Finding: CIR review covering Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 (Pal-GQPR), a component of Matrixyl 3000; customary leave-on use below 10 ppm, with manufacturer clinical testing twice daily for ~2 months.View study

07 · Questions

Frequently asked

What is inflammaging and how does Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 address it?+

Inflammaging is chronic low-grade inflammation that increases with age, driven partly by senescent cells releasing pro-inflammatory cytokines like IL-6. This persistent inflammation degrades collagen, breaks down the extracellular matrix, and accelerates skin aging. Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 directly reduces IL-6 secretion, helping to quiet this inflammatory cycle and protect the skin matrix from inflammation-driven degradation.

Can Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 be used alone or only in Matrixyl 3000?+

While most effective as part of Matrixyl 3000 with Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 can be used independently for its anti-inflammatory benefits. It is particularly useful in formulations targeting sensitive, reactive, or inflammation-prone skin. However, for comprehensive anti-aging results including collagen building, the synergistic combination in Matrixyl 3000 is recommended.

How does this differ from other anti-inflammatory skincare ingredients?+

Unlike broad anti-inflammatory botanicals (like centella or green tea), Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 specifically targets IL-6 cytokine signaling in skin cells, providing a more targeted approach to inflammaging. It also stimulates structural proteins (laminin, nidogen) at the dermal-epidermal junction, offering both anti-inflammatory and structural repair benefits that botanical anti-inflammatories do not provide.

Is Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 the same as Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-3?+

Yes. Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 was formerly known as Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-3 (and marketed as Rigin). The name was updated to Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 under INCI nomenclature revisions, but the molecule and its properties are identical.

Does Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 help with sun damage?+

Yes. Research shows it reduces IL-6 secretion specifically in UVB-stressed keratinocytes, meaning it helps mitigate the inflammatory response triggered by UV exposure. While not a sunscreen replacement, it can help reduce the inflammation-driven damage that accelerates photoaging when used as part of a post-sun or daily anti-aging regimen.

08 · Further reading

History & related research

History · since 2003

The skin calmer that stops inflammation before it starts

Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 is a short peptide made from four amino acids. Scientists attached a fatty acid chain to help it sink into skin.

Read the full history of Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7

Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7

Anti-inflammatory matrikine peptide that reduces IL-6-driven inflammaging for calmer, more youthful skin.

Written & reviewed by Michael Carroll · Research, Peptide Initiative

CosmeticLimited human trialsResearch compound

Typical dose

~3% trade solution (Matrixyl 3000 blend)

Once dailyCycle: Ongoing/indefiniteOnset: Moderate (1-2 weeks)

Peptide Database

Scientific & efficacy data

How much do I take?

Step 1: Peptide Weight

Is this right for me?

How do I use it?

Is it safe?

How do I know it's working?

Frequently asked

History & related research

Scientific & efficacy data

How much do I take?

Step 1: Peptide Weight

Is this right for me?

How do I use it?

Is it safe?

How do I know it's working?

Frequently asked

History & related research