What Is Myristoyl Tetrapeptide-4?
Myristoyl Tetrapeptide-4 is a lab made molecule created when myristic acid, a fatty acid found in nut and seed oils, is joined to a short chain of four amino acids made of glutamic acid, glycine and proline. Joining the fatty acid to the peptide makes the whole structure more comfortable in the skin’s oil-friendly surface, helping it slip into the outer layers more easily.
The idea of linking lipids to peptides took off in the early 2000s as brands searched for gentle alternatives to heavy occlusives and harsh actives. Chemists found that these compact peptide–fat hybrids could signal the skin to look smoother while feeling weightless. Myristoyl Tetrapeptide-4 was one of the early successes and has since become a quiet workhorse in many leave-on formulas.
Production starts with fermenting or synthesizing the individual amino acids, building them into a specific four-unit chain, then attaching purified myristic acid under controlled heat and pH. The finished ingredient is filtered, tested for purity and blended into water-free concentrates or dispersions that slip easily into finished products.
You will most often spot it in anti aging serums, eye creams, day and night moisturizers, sheet masks and lightweight facial oils where a silky, conditioning feel is wanted without a greasy after-feel.
Myristoyl Tetrapeptide-4’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient is prized for a single key role that can improve the look and feel of many formulas.
As a skin conditioning agent Myristoyl Tetrapeptide-4 helps the surface of the skin feel softer and smoother. The peptide portion can support a fresh, supple appearance while the myristic acid tail lends a light emollient touch. Together they can leave skin looking more even, feeling moisturized and better prepped for makeup or sunscreen that follows.
Who Can Use Myristoyl Tetrapeptide-4
Because it is lightweight and non greasy Myristoyl Tetrapeptide-4 tends to suit every skin type including oily, combination, normal and dry. Sensitive or redness-prone skin usually tolerates it well since it carries no fragrance or exfoliating acids. There are no known reasons for acne-prone users to avoid it unless the finished formula also contains pore-clogging oils.
The peptide is produced entirely through synthetic processes so it contains no animal by-products. That makes it appropriate for both vegans and vegetarians as long as the surrounding formula is also cruelty free.
No data links Myristoyl Tetrapeptide-4 to hormonal disruption or systemic absorption at levels that would be a concern for pregnant or breastfeeding women. This is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should still show the full ingredient list to a healthcare professional before use to be safe.
The molecule does not make skin more reactive to sunlight so it is classified as non-photosensitising. It can be worn day and night without special UV precautions beyond a normal daily sunscreen.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to any topical ingredient vary from person to person. The following issues are considered potential and are not expected for the average user when the product is formulated and used as directed.
- Mild redness or warmth immediately after application
- Transient stinging on compromised or freshly exfoliated skin
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to peptides or fatty acids
- Breakouts if the finished formula pairs the peptide with heavier comedogenic oils
- Reduced effectiveness when layered with very low pH treatments that can break peptide bonds
If any discomfort or unexpected reaction develops stop using the product and seek guidance from a qualified healthcare provider.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5
Myristoyl Tetrapeptide-4 links a single myristic acid tail to a tiny peptide, which makes up only a small part of most formulas. The fatty acid segment on its own can rank higher on the pore-clog scale, but once bound to the peptide and used at low percentages its oiliness is greatly reduced. Finished products that keep the overall level low, combine it with light carriers and avoid heavy waxes are unlikely to block pores.
Because of this low score the ingredient is generally suitable for skin that breaks out easily, as long as the rest of the product is non-comedogenic.
If paired with thicker butters or rich plant oils the blend could edge higher on the scale, so check the full ingredient list when evaluating a specific product.
Summary
Myristoyl Tetrapeptide-4 is mainly valued for skin conditioning. The peptide portion can nudge the skin toward a smoother look while the attached myristic acid offers a light emollient feel, leaving the surface soft and balanced without weight.
It sits in the middle ground of popularity: not a headline grabber like retinol yet common enough that many modern serums and eye creams rely on its silky touch.
Safety data show it is well tolerated across skin types with a very low risk of irritation or hormonal effects. As with any new cosmetic it is wise to patch test first to be sure your own skin agrees with the formula.