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.
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
Frequently Asked Questions
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Acetyl Tetrapeptide-15
A synthetic peptide designed to support skin comfort and resilience
Acetyl Tetrapeptide-17
A peptide that supports skin's natural conditioning and structural integrity
Acetyl Tetrapeptide-18
A peptide that supports skin's natural repair and conditioning processes
Acetyl Tetrapeptide-22
A peptide that supports skin's natural conditioning and resilience
Acetyl Tetrapeptide-3
A peptide designed to support skin's natural protective barrier function
Acetyl Tetrapeptide-40
A peptide that supports the skin's natural lipid production and barrier function
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