Quick summary
Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 (Pal-GQPR, Rigin) is an anti-inflammatory cosmetic lipopeptide derived from immunoglobulin G that suppresses IL-6 production in keratinocytes. It is used alongside Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 in the Matrixyl 3000 system to reduce skin inflammation and UV-induced aging.
Overview
Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 (Pal-GQPR, also known as Rigin) is a lipopeptide derived from immunoglobulin G, consisting of the tetrapeptide sequence Gly-Gln-Pro-Arg conjugated to palmitic acid. It is a potent anti-inflammatory cosmetic peptide that suppresses pro-inflammatory cytokine release from keratinocytes, particularly interleukin-6 (IL-6). It is a key component of the Matrixyl 3000 system alongside Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 and is used to reduce skin inflammation, redness, and UV-induced aging.
Mechanism of action
Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 suppresses the production of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and related pro-inflammatory cytokines from keratinocytes in a dose-dependent manner. By reducing IL-6 signaling, it limits downstream activation of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), which degrade collagen and elastin in aging and UV-damaged skin. It also suppresses the acute inflammatory cascade that triggers skin redness, roughness, and degradation of the extracellular matrix. The GQPR sequence is derived from the Fc region of IgG and acts as an immune-modulating signal that shifts keratinocytes from inflammatory to homeostatic signaling states. The palmitoyl chain facilitates stratum corneum penetration.
Dosing protocols
| Purpose | Route | Dosage | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| anti-inflammatory and anti-aging skin care | topical | 0–0 % | once to twice daily | Used at 0.00025–0.0004% in finished formulations (0.25–0.4 ppm). Higher concentrations of up to 0.05% have been formulated with specialized delivery technology. Apply to cleansed skin. Results typically seen after 4–8 weeks. |
Dosing information is for educational purposes only. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any peptide.
Research summary
In vitro studies demonstrate dose-dependent suppression of IL-6 production in human keratinocytes, with higher concentrations producing reductions of up to 40%. Clinical use in the Matrixyl 3000 combination has been associated with improvements in skin firmness, smoothness, and wrinkle appearance in controlled cosmetic studies. The anti-inflammatory mechanism complements the collagen-stimulating action of its partner peptide, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1. CIR safety assessments have confirmed safety for cosmetic use. The peptide is used at very low concentrations (0.00025–0.0004%) in finished formulations.[1][2][3]
Evidence grading
Each claimed benefit is graded by the strength of available evidence. Grades reflect study quality, not effect size.
Strong = multiple RCTs · Moderate = limited trials or observational · Preliminary = animal or in vitro only · Insufficient = anecdotal or no published data
Side effects
Side effects vary by individual. This is not an exhaustive list. Report unusual symptoms to a healthcare professional.
Common stacks
Peptides commonly paired with Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 for synergistic effects.
Legal status
Approved cosmetic ingredient in the US, EU, and most global markets. No prescription required. Regulated as a cosmetic, not a drug. Available as a raw ingredient and in finished anti-aging skincare products.
Sourcing & access
Research compound
Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 is classified as a research compound. Regulatory status varies by jurisdiction. Always verify current legal status and source from vendors providing third-party certificates of analysis (COA).
Frequently asked questions
Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 (also known as Rigin) is a lipopeptide derived from the Fc region of immunoglobulin G. It is a potent anti-inflammatory cosmetic peptide used in the Matrixyl 3000 system alongside Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1.
It suppresses interleukin-6 (IL-6) production from keratinocytes in a dose-dependent manner, with reductions of up to 40% at higher concentrations. By reducing IL-6, it limits MMP activation that degrades collagen and elastin in aging skin.
It is generally very well tolerated with no known irritation at standard cosmetic concentrations (0.00025-0.0004%). No systemic effects are expected. It is approved as a cosmetic ingredient in the US, EU, and most global markets.
Matrixyl 3000 is a commercial anti-aging ingredient system that combines Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 for its anti-inflammatory IL-6 suppression with Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 for collagen-stimulating matrikine signaling. Together they address both the inflammation-driven skin degradation that drives MMP-mediated matrix breakdown and the underlying structural collagen loss seen in photoaging and chronologic aging.
Research references
- Efficacy of a moisturizing lotion containing a triple combination of hyaluronic acid, ceramide NP, palmitoyl-tetrapeptide-7 and resveratrol: A randomized, controlled, double-blind, clinical studyPubMed
- Instrumental evaluation of anti-aging effects of cosmetic formulations containing palmitoyl peptides, Pycnogenol, hyaluronic acid and witch hazel on female volunteersPubMed
- Peptides stimulating synthesis of extracellular matrix used in anti-ageing cosmetics: Are they clinically tested? Assessment based on the analysis of clinical trialsPubMed