Tetrapeptide-3 is a four-amino-acid peptide designed to support dermal matrix density and firmness. It belongs to the category of signal peptides that interact with fibroblast receptors to upregulate structural protein synthesis. While less commercially famous than Matrixyl or Argireline, it fills a specific niche in formulations targeting skin firmness and elasticity loss in mature skin.
Mechanism and Efficacy
Tetrapeptide-3 activates fibroblast surface receptors involved in extracellular matrix maintenance. In human dermal fibroblast cultures, treatment with 50 ppm Tetrapeptide-3 for 72 hours resulted in a 28% increase in type I collagen and a 22% increase in elastin mRNA expression versus untreated controls. At 100 ppm, fibronectin production increased by 35%, suggesting broad ECM stimulation rather than single-target activity.
This multi-target profile makes Tetrapeptide-3 particularly useful in anti-aging formulations where the goal is overall dermal density improvement rather than targeting a single wrinkle mechanism.
Formulation Guide
- Use level: 50-200 ppm in final product.
- Addition: Cool-down phase below 45C. Water-soluble.
- pH: Stable 5.0-7.0.
- Compatibility: Compatible with most cosmetic ingredients. Pairs well with Acetyl Tetrapeptide-9 (lumican stimulation) for complementary matrix support.
- Storage: 2-8C, protect from light.
FAQ
What makes Tetrapeptide-3 different from Tetrapeptide-9?
Tetrapeptide-3 primarily targets collagen and elastin directly. Acetyl Tetrapeptide-9 stimulates lumican, a proteoglycan that organizes collagen fibrils. They work at different levels of matrix organization and combine well.
Samples and MOQ?
Evaluation from 1g. Production MOQ 100g. TCS NEXUS S.L., Valencia Spain. EU delivery 5-7 days.
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| INCI | Tetrapeptide-3 |
| CAS | 827306-97-8 |
| MW | ~490 g/mol |
| Purity | Over 98% HPLC |
Technical Profile
Tetrapeptide-3 is a hair follicle-stimulating peptide used in scalp treatments, lash serums, and brow-enhancing products to promote healthier, stronger hair growth through improved keratinocyte and dermal papilla cell activity.
Best-Fit Applications
- Hair-care and scalp-support cosmetic projects
- Brow, lash, and follicle-adjacent peptide concepts
- Programs needing peptide pages outside standard facial anti-aging themes
Related Peptide Portfolio: TCS NEXUS supplies a connected range of anti-aging, brightening, repair, and matrix-support peptides for cosmetic formulators across Europe.
Technical Support and Samples
Request COA documents, sample availability, or support for custom synthesis.