Rigin
A palmitoylated tetrapeptide cosmetic active that suppresses IL-6-driven skin inflammation to protect the collagen matrix from age-related breakdown.
Rigin (Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Pal-GQPR) is a synthetic cosmetic peptide developed by Sederma/Croda to address skin inflammation and age-related matrix degradation. It is proposed to suppress interleukin-6 (IL-6), a cytokine associated with chronic low-grade skin inflammation that accelerates extracellular matrix breakdown. Rigin is one of two peptide actives in the Matrixyl 3000 formulation, where it is paired with Matrixyl (palmitoyl pentapeptide-4). Its evidence base consists of manufacturer-sponsored in vitro and ex vivo cosmetic research; no independent peer-reviewed clinical trials have been identified in indexed biomedical literature.
Class
Synthetic palmitoylated tetrapeptide (cosmetic ingredient)
Half-life
N/A (topical application)
Routes
Topical
Category
Skin, Hair & Cosmetic
Researched benefits
What it's studied for
Anti-inflammatory (skin)
Rigin is proposed to suppress interleukin-6 (IL-6) production in keratinocytes, reducing chronic low-grade skin inflammation that contributes to matrix breakdown. This is its primary researched mechanism, supported by manufacturer in vitro data.
Extracellular matrix support
By lowering IL-6-mediated matrix degradation, Rigin is proposed to slow the rate at which newly synthesised collagen is broken down, helping maintain the skin's structural matrix. This anti-catabolic action complements collagen-stimulating actives.
Wrinkle reduction
As part of the Matrixyl 3000 pairing, Rigin's protection of the collagen matrix is proposed to contribute to a reduced appearance of fine lines and wrinkles over time. Evidence derives from cosmetic (ex vivo and formulation) studies rather than independent clinical trials.
Skin tightening / firmness
Preservation of the dermal collagen network is associated with improved skin firmness and tone. Rigin is marketed for skin-tightening effects as part of anti-aging formulations.
Mechanism
How it works
Rigin is a palmitoylated tetrapeptide whose peptide portion (Gly-Gln-Pro-Arg, GQPR) mimics a C-terminal sequence found on immunoglobulin G (IgG). The palmitoyl (fatty acid) tail is added to improve lipophilicity so the peptide can penetrate the stratum corneum and reach the living epidermis when applied topically.
Its proposed primary action is suppression of interleukin-6 (IL-6) production in keratinocytes. IL-6 is a pro-inflammatory cytokine associated with chronic low-grade skin inflammation, which drives extracellular matrix breakdown. By damping IL-6 signaling, Rigin is proposed to reduce the catabolic (degradation) side of collagen turnover.
Rigin is one of two peptide actives in Sederma's Matrixyl 3000 formulation, paired with Matrixyl (palmitoyl pentapeptide-4, Pal-KTTKS). The two act on complementary aspects of skin aging: Matrixyl stimulates new collagen I and III synthesis via TGF-beta signaling (the anabolic side), while Rigin suppresses IL-6-mediated matrix degradation (the anti-catabolic side). Targeting both synthesis and degradation is the mechanistic basis for the '3000' formulation's improved-efficacy claims over the original single-peptide Matrixyl.
Dosing protocols
Dosing & administration
Dosing reflects protocols reported in research and community literature for educational purposes. It is not medical advice or a recommendation. Most peptides here are not approved for human use.
Cosmetic formulation
- Dose
- Typically 4-8% of the Sederma Matrixyl 3000 concentrate in the final product
- Frequency
- Per product directions (commonly once or twice daily)
- Timing
- Applied to clean skin, typically morning and/or evening
- Duration
- Ongoing cosmetic use
- Route
- Topical
Rigin is not dosed as a standalone injectable; it is incorporated into topical skincare products alongside palmitoyl pentapeptide-4 (Matrixyl 3000). The concentration refers to the finished formulation, not the raw peptide.
- Rigin is a topical cosmetic ingredient only — it has no injectable or clinical pharmaceutical application and does not require a prescription.
- In commercial products it appears under its INCI name, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, usually alongside palmitoyl pentapeptide-4 in products marketed as containing Matrixyl 3000.
- No standardized clinical dosing exists; use follows the directions of the specific finished cosmetic product.
Combinations
Stacking & blends
Matrixyl 3000
Comprehensive anti-aging collagen matrix support
The two peptides address complementary sides of collagen maintenance: Matrixyl (Pal-KTTKS) stimulates new collagen I and III synthesis via TGF-beta signaling, while Rigin (Pal-GQPR) suppresses IL-6-mediated matrix degradation. Combining anabolic synthesis with anti-catabolic protection is the basis for the Matrixyl 3000 formulation's efficacy claims.
Safety
Side effects & considerations
Contraindications & cautions
- None established for topical use
Rigin is generally considered lower risk in research contexts as a topical cosmetic ingredient, with no contraindications established for topical use. Individual skin response varies; patch testing is prudent before broad use of any new topical product.
FAQ
Rigin — common questions
What is Rigin?
Rigin (Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7) is a synthetic cosmetic peptide developed to address skin inflammation and age-related matrix degradation. It is proposed to suppress interleukin-6 (IL-6), a cytokine associated with chronic low-grade skin inflammation that accelerates extracellular matrix breakdown.
What is Rigin primarily studied for?
Rigin is primarily studied for anti-inflammatory (skin) effects, skin tightening, extracellular matrix support, and wrinkle reduction.
How does Rigin relate to Matrixyl 3000?
Rigin (Pal-GQPR) is one of two peptide actives in Sederma's Matrixyl 3000 formulation, paired with Matrixyl (palmitoyl pentapeptide-4, Pal-KTTKS). Matrixyl stimulates new collagen synthesis while Rigin suppresses IL-6-mediated matrix degradation, so the combination targets both collagen synthesis and degradation.
How is Rigin used?
Rigin is a topical cosmetic ingredient found in skincare products, typically listed under its INCI name Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7. It has no injectable or clinical pharmaceutical application and does not require a prescription.
What are the side effects of Rigin?
No contraindications are established for topical use, and it is generally considered lower risk. Individual skin response varies, so patch testing a new product is sensible. This is educational information only — consult a qualified professional before use.
How strong is the evidence for Rigin?
Evidence for Rigin is primarily derived from manufacturer-sponsored in vitro and ex vivo cosmetic research. No independent peer-reviewed clinical trials have been identified in indexed biomedical literature, so its evidence band is best described as preclinical.
