Best For Skin Types
All skin types
Usage Frequency
As directed on product packaging
EWG Safety Score
What Is Acetyl Tetrapeptide-2?
Acetyl tetrapeptide-2 is a lab-synthesized peptide created by the acetylation of tetrapeptide-2. Acetylation is the process of adding an acetyl group (molecular compounds that modify proteins and enzymes) to a compound to change its function. Acetyl tetrapeptide-2 is derived from thymopoietin, a polypeptide originating in the thymus gland.
Research finds acetyl tetrapeptide-2 helps support skin’s extracellular matrix and helps improve skin’s elasticity. It does so by encouraging healthy levels of elastin (elastin being one of the chief substances responsible for skin’s youthful “bounce”). The peptide helps reinforce skin’s barrier, making it more resilient to environmental stressors and ageing.
Studies have also demonstrated that acetyl tetrapeptide-2 has skin soothing properties.
The supplier-recommended use level is 2–10% with the peptide being suspended in a water and dextran solution.
Benefits for Your Skin
How It Works
Clinical Evidence & References
- SpecialChem, Website, Accessed March 2025
- UL Prospector, Website, Accessed March 2025
- ScienceDirect, Website, Accessed March 2025
- Modern Health Science, March 2025, pages 69-78
- Applied Sciences, December 2024, pages 1-6
- Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, January 2023, pages 245-254
- Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, November 2021, pages 12-20
- Aesthetic Surgery Journal Open Forum, August 2021, pages 1-8
- International Journal of Peptide Research and Therapeutics, November 2017, pages 577-587
Published Research
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Acetyl Tetrapeptide-2: Lifting and firming peptide Molecules, 2019
Related Ingredients
Acetyl Dipeptide-1 Cetyl Ester
Lab-made anti-ageing peptide that promotes firmer skin Bio-identical to a skin-natural peptide that aids elasticity
Acetyl Glycyl Beta-Alanine
Peptide for reducing skin redness and sensitivity
Acetyl Hexapeptide-1
A synthetic peptide Composed of the amino acids
Acetyl Hexapeptide-37
Synthetic peptide Composed of amino acids (alanine, proline, serine, and glycine)
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