What Is Tetrapeptide-28?
Tetrapeptide-28 is a lab-made chain of four amino acids: arginine, cysteine, serine and tyrosine. Because it is synthetic, scientists can control its purity and stability, which helps makers blend it into modern skin care products. Peptides started gaining attention in the 1990s when researchers found that short sequences of amino acids could signal the skin to look smoother and firmer. Tetrapeptide-28 was developed soon after as part of this wave of research, giving formulators a small yet active molecule that supports a soft, even complexion.
The peptide is created through solid-phase peptide synthesis, a step-by-step process where each amino acid is added in a set order on a solid support. Once the four amino acids are linked, the finished peptide is removed, purified and tested before it is ready for cosmetic use.
You will most often spot Tetrapeptide-28 in lightweight serums, firming or anti-aging creams, daily moisturizers, sheet masks and targeted eye or neck treatments. Brands add it to these products because it mixes well with common bases, stays stable under normal storage conditions and layers easily with other active ingredients like hyaluronic acid or niacinamide.
Tetrapeptide-28’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This peptide is valued for one main role in skin care formulas.
Skin conditioning: Tetrapeptide-28 helps the skin feel softer, smoother and more supple. By supporting the skin’s surface proteins it can improve the look of fine lines and uneven texture. Regular use in a well-formulated product may leave the complexion looking fresher and more rested.
Who Can Use Tetrapeptide-28
Tetrapeptide-28 is generally well tolerated by all skin types, including normal, dry, oily, combination and sensitive skin, because it is a gentle conditioning peptide that does not exfoliate or aggressively stimulate the skin. People with a known sensitivity to peptides or any of the individual amino acids should exercise caution, as rare allergic reactions can occur.
Because it is produced entirely in the lab without animal-derived materials, Tetrapeptide-28 is suitable for vegans and vegetarians. Most suppliers also certify that no animal testing is involved in its manufacture, aligning it with cruelty-free preferences.
Current data suggest the peptide poses little risk to pregnant or breastfeeding women when used topically in standard cosmetic concentrations. However, there is limited specific research in these groups. This information is not medical advice, so anyone who is pregnant or nursing should show any product containing Tetrapeptide-28 to a qualified healthcare professional before adding it to a routine.
Tetrapeptide-28 does not make the skin more sensitive to sunlight, so it can be used morning or night without raising the chance of sunburn. As always, daily sunscreen is still recommended for overall skin health.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Tetrapeptide-28 vary from person to person. The points below outline possible, but unlikely, side effects when the ingredient is used in a properly formulated product and applied as directed.
- Mild redness or irritation
- Temporary stinging or itching
- Contact allergy presenting as rash or hives
- Breakouts in very acne prone skin if the product base is rich or occlusive
If any of these effects occur, stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 (non-comedogenic)
Tetrapeptide-28 is a small, water-soluble molecule that sits lightly on the skin and does not contain heavy oils or waxes that could block pores. Because it functions mainly as a conditioning signal rather than an occlusive film former, it earns the lowest rating on the comedogenic scale.
Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin when the rest of the product formula is also non-comedogenic.
The final texture of the finished product still matters: a peptide serum is low risk, while a thick balm with the same peptide could feel heavier to very oily skin.
Summary
Tetrapeptide-28 works as a skin conditioning agent that helps the surface feel softer, look smoother and appear more even. It does this by sending gentle signals to support the skin’s own proteins, which can lessen the look of fine lines and rough patches over time.
The peptide is not as common as headline actives like hyaluronic acid or vitamin C, but it is gaining traction in higher-end serums and firming creams because of its stability and mild nature.
Overall safety is high: it is synthetic so contamination risk is low, it is vegan friendly and most people can use it without irritation. Still, every skin is unique so it is wise to patch test any new product that contains Tetrapeptide-28 before making it a regular part of your routine.