Acetyl Tetrapeptide-3: Hair Follicle Support Peptide for Density and Anti-Hair Loss
Acetyl Tetrapeptide-3 (INCI: Acetyl Tetrapeptide-3, CAS 827306-88-7) is a four-amino-acid acetylated peptide with a molecular weight of 487.55 g/mol. Its sequence – Ac-Lys-Gly-His-Lys-NH2 – was developed to support hair follicle anchoring and reduce the factors that contribute to follicular miniaturization. This peptide forms the active peptide component of the Capixyl concept, where it works alongside red clover (Trifolium pratense) extract to deliver a comprehensive approach to hair density maintenance.
Mechanism of Action: Follicular Matrix Support and DHT Modulation
Hair loss progression involves three interconnected processes: perifollicular inflammation, DHT-driven follicular miniaturization, and extracellular matrix degradation around the dermal papilla. Acetyl Tetrapeptide-3 addresses each pathway. The peptide reduces inflammatory cytokine expression in the tissue surrounding hair follicles, limiting the chronic inflammation that weakens follicular anchoring. It modulates the effects of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) on androgen-sensitive follicles without acting as a systemic 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor – the modulation occurs at the local tissue level. Additionally, it stimulates extracellular matrix protein synthesis in dermal papilla cells, reinforcing the structural foundation that supports the hair growth cycle through anagen, catagen, and telogen phases.
Clinical Efficacy Data
In a 4-month controlled study with 30 participants, Acetyl Tetrapeptide-3 combined with red clover extract (the Capixyl concept) reduced hair loss by 46% compared to baseline measurements. The study used standardized pull tests and trichogram analysis to quantify results. Participants showed increased anagen-to-telogen ratio, indicating that the treatment extended the active growth phase of the hair cycle. Hair density per square centimeter increased measurably from month two onward, with progressive improvement through the full study duration.
Formulation Guidelines
Acetyl Tetrapeptide-3 is water-soluble and stable within pH 5.0 to 7.0. Recommended incorporation level ranges from 50 to 500 ppm depending on product type and desired potency. Processing temperature must remain below 40 degrees Celsius. For leave-on scalp serums, use at the higher end of the concentration range (200-500 ppm). For rinse-off shampoos, higher loading compensates for limited contact time. The peptide is compatible with standard surfactant systems, conditioning agents, and common hair care preservatives. Combine with Biotinoyl Tripeptide-1, Myristoyl Hexapeptide-16, or Copper Tripeptide-1 for multi-pathway hair support formulations.
Target Applications
- Anti-hair-loss scalp serums with concentrated peptide delivery
- Hair density treatments for thinning hair in both men and women
- Post-transplant care formulations to support graft survival and follicular anchoring
- Scalp ampoules for professional trichology clinic protocols
- Multi-peptide hair care combining Biotinoyl Tripeptide-1 and Copper Tripeptide-1
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| INCI Name | Acetyl Tetrapeptide-3 |
| CAS Number | 827306-88-7 |
| Molecular Weight | 487.55 g/mol |
| Purity (HPLC) | ≥98% |
| Solubility | Water soluble |
| Recommended pH | 5.0 – 7.0 |
| Use Level | 50 – 500 ppm |
| Storage | Below 40 C, protect from light |
Supply from TCS NEXUS S.L.
TCS NEXUS S.L. produces Acetyl Tetrapeptide-3 from its warehouse in Valencia, Spain. Every shipment includes a Certificate of Analysis detailing HPLC purity, mass spectrometry identification, amino acid analysis, and microbial testing. Minimum order quantity is 1 g for evaluation and bench-scale formulation work, scaling to 100 g for production batches. Standard EU delivery completes in 5 to 7 business days from confirmed order.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Acetyl Tetrapeptide-3 relate to the Capixyl concept?
Acetyl Tetrapeptide-3 is the biomimetic peptide component of Capixyl. The full concept combines the peptide with red clover (Trifolium pratense) extract, which provides isoflavones like Biochanin A that inhibit 5-alpha-reductase. Together, the peptide handles follicular matrix support and anti-inflammatory action while the botanical extract addresses DHT production. The 46% hair loss reduction in clinical trials reflects this combined approach.
Can Acetyl Tetrapeptide-3 be used in post-transplant formulations?
Post-transplant care is one of the primary applications. The peptide supports extracellular matrix integrity around newly transplanted follicles, promotes the structural environment needed for graft survival, and reduces perifollicular inflammation that can compromise transplant outcomes. Formulators typically use 200-500 ppm in post-operative scalp serums applied from 2-4 weeks after the procedure.
What complementary peptides work best with Acetyl Tetrapeptide-3?
Biotinoyl Tripeptide-1 reinforces hair shaft keratin structure, Myristoyl Hexapeptide-16 supports follicular stem cell signaling, and Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu) promotes wound healing and tissue remodeling around follicles. A formulation combining 2-3 of these peptides with Acetyl Tetrapeptide-3 targets hair loss through multiple biological pathways simultaneously.
Technical Support and Samples
Request COA documents, sample availability, or support for custom synthesis.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you provide COA documents for Acetyl Tetrapeptide-3 Hair Peptide?
Yes. Each lot can be supplied with a Certificate of Analysis, HPLC purity data, and relevant quality-control results for technical review.
Are samples available for Acetyl Tetrapeptide-3 Hair Peptide?
Yes. Sample availability can be confirmed for formulation screening and internal evaluation before a commercial order is placed.
What is the delivery lead time for Acetyl Tetrapeptide-3 Hair Peptide?
For stocked material in Valencia, EU delivery is typically 5 to 7 business days. Final timing depends on destination and requested volume.
Do you also support custom synthesis and technical inquiries?
Yes. The team can help with custom synthesis, raw-material selection, technical documentation, and supply planning.