Tetrapeptide-21

Good

Peptide

Tetrapeptide-21 at a glance

  • Synthetic peptide
  • Composed of glutamic acid, glycine, and lysine
  • Part of a blend known by the trade name SpecPed® SC-Tetra21
  • Claimed to boost proteins in skin’s extracellular matrix

Tetrapeptide-21 description

Tetrapeptide-21 is a synthetic peptide made up of the amino acids glutamic acid, glycine, and lysine. The sequence was derived from extra cellular matrix (ECM) proteins. It acts as a signal peptide to fool the skin into thinking it has to repair and regenerate ECM proteins. When combined with butylene glycol, glycerin, and water, it is known by the trade name SpecPed® SC-Tetra21. The manufacturer of SpecPed® SC-Tetra21 claims it helps prevent wrinkles and other signs of aging by boosting proteins in skin’s extracellular matrix. It’s said to also boost skin’s architectural scaffolding as well as its hyaluronic acid content, which should have a visible impact on skin texture and resilience. The recommended usage level for tetrapeptide-21 is between 0.5-5%.

Tetrapeptide-21 references

  • UL Prospector, Website, Accessed February 2025
  • European Commission, Website, Accessed February 2025
  • Current Protein and Peptide Science, Oct 2021, pages 716 – 728
  • European Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, November 2018, Pages 137-144
  • Cosmetics, May 2017, pages 1-14

Peer-reviewed, substantiated scientific research is used to assess ingredients in this dictionary. Regulations regarding constraints, permitted concentration levels and availability vary by country and region.

Ingredient ratings

Best

Proven and supported by independent studies. Outstanding active ingredient for most skin types or concerns.

Good

Necessary to improve a formula's texture, stability, or penetration.

Average

Generally non-irritating but may have aesthetic, stability, or other issues that limit its usefulness.

Bad

There is a likelihood of irritation. Risk increases when combined with other problematic ingredients.

Worst

May cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, etc. May offer benefit in some capability but overall, proven to do more harm than good.

unknown

We couldn't find this in our ingredient dictionary. We log all missing ingredients and make continuous updates.

Not rated

We have not yet rated this ingredient because we have not had a chance to review the research on it.