DESCRIPTION: Tetrapeptide-21 is a next‑generation skin‑renewing peptide designed to help the skin look smoother, firmer, and more youthful. Peptides are tiny chains of amino acids—the same building blocks found naturally in the skin. This particular peptide is engineered to boost collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid, helping the skin regain bounce, firmness, refined texture and a more radiant complexion.
MECHANISM OF ACTIVITY
Tetrapeptide‑21 is a biomimetic peptide that mimics fragments of natural extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins. It works by stimulating fibroblasts to increase production of:
- Collagen I – improves firmness and reduces wrinkle depth
- Collagen III – enhances elasticity
- Fibronectin – strengthens the skin’s structural network
- Hyaluronic Acid – increases hydration and plumpness
Cellular Pathways Influenced
- Upregulation of ECM‑related genes
- Enhanced fibroblast activity
- Improved dermal matrix density
This leads to stronger, smoother, and more resilient skin.
BENEFITS
- Stimulates fibroblasts to boost collagen production for firmer, more elastic skin
- Strengthens the skin’s structural network by enhancing fibronectin levels
- Increases hyaluronic acid for improved hydration and plumpness
- Upregulates ECM-related genes, leading to better dermal matrix density
- Promotes stronger, smoother, and more resilient skin overall
- Supports skin repair and resilience
- Promotes a more even, youthful complexion
- Enhances skin smoothness and texture
- Non‑irritating and non‑sensitizing in standard cosmetic safety tests
- Suitable for daily use
Research Summary
In‑Vitro (Lab) Results
Studies on Tetrapeptide‑21 show increases in:
- Collagen I synthesis (up to ~40%)
- Fibronectin synthesis (up to ~60%)
- Hyaluronic acid production (up to ~20%)
5.2 In‑Vivo (Human) Results
In clinical studies (4–8 weeks):
- Wrinkle depth visibly reduced
- Skin firmness improved
- Texture became smoother
- Overall skin appearance improved
Compatibility:
o Pairs well with niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, Glucosaminogycans (Full matrix) AQP3 (Glyceryl Glucoside), Ceramide Complex, Goji-polysaccharides, Picha resveratrol, and peptides, etc.
APPLICATIONS: in toners, serums, ampoules, gels, lotions, creams, masks, eye treatments, etc
FORMULATION GUIDELINES
| INCI | Tetrapeptide-21 (and) Aqua (and) Propanediol. |
| Chemical Class | Bio‑engineered synthetic peptide |
| Solubility | Water‑soluble |
| Typical Use Level | 0.5 – 5.0% |
| Temperature Tolerance | Avoid temperatures above 40°C |
| pH Stability | 4.0 – 7.0 |
| Appearance | Clear to slightly opalescent aqueous solution |
| Storage | Store in a cool, dark and dry place. Refrigerate for long storage |
This is a cosmetic raw material and is meant for external use only in cosmetic formulations. As with all of our materials, it should not be taken internally. Treasure Actives is not responsible for product compatibility. We advise everyone to test ingredients for performance, compatibility, and safety prior to committing to larger quantities. Keep all products out of reach of children. For more information, please see our terms and conditions page.
