Lipopeptide (Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 / Pal-GQPR)
A palmitoylated tetrapeptide (Pal-Gly-Gln-Pro-Arg) used topically in anti-aging cosmetics to reduce inflammatory cytokine signalling and support skin firmness.
Evidence-led profile
Research snapshot
- Evidence stage
- Emerging research
- References
- 1 linked sources
- Editorial review
- Jul 7, 2026
Published by the PepGuide Editorial Team using our research methodology.
Overview
The compound generically labelled 'lipopeptide' here is palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7 (sequence Pal-Gly-Gln-Pro-Arg, or Pal-GQPR), a Sederma cosmetic active also sold as Biopeptide EL and, historically, as Rigin (formerly palmitoyl tetrapeptide-3). The GQPR core is a fragment of immunoglobulin G with immunomodulating activity; attaching a C16 palmitoyl chain makes the molecule lipophilic enough to cross the stratum corneum. The general principle that palmitoylation dramatically increases skin penetration of short peptides was established by Lintner & Peschard (2000), the founding work behind cosmetic peptides such as Matrixyl.
In skin, the peptide reduces basal and UV-induced secretion of interleukin-6 (IL-6) by keratinocytes and fibroblasts. Because IL-6 promotes matrix-metalloproteinase activity and collagen degradation, dampening it is proposed to slow inflammation-driven loss of firmness and elasticity. It is most commonly formulated alongside palmitoyl tripeptide-1 (which stimulates collagen via TGF-beta signalling) in the commercial blend Matrixyl 3000, pairing anti-inflammatory and collagen-stimulating mechanisms.
Usage is exclusively topical: it appears in serums and creams at low active concentrations (typically well under 10 ppm of the peptide, or a few percent of the supplied trade solution) applied once or twice daily. Evidence is largely from manufacturer and cosmetic-science studies rather than large independent clinical trials; it is regarded as a cosmetic ingredient, not a drug.
Safety and Limitations
Lipopeptide (Biopeptide EL) is used in topical cosmetic formulations and is generally well-tolerated. As a topical agent with limited systemic absorption, it has a favorable safety profile for cosmetic applications. No significant adverse effects have been reported at standard cosmetic use concentrations.
Mechanism of Action
The GQPR motif mimics an anti-inflammatory immunoglobulin fragment; the peptide corrects the age-related rise in IL-6 that parallels declining DHEA, curbing IL-6-driven MMP-1 expression and collagen breakdown after UV exposure. Palmitoylation raises lipophilicity so the peptide reaches viable epidermis and dermis. Paired with a collagen-stimulating peptide in Matrixyl 3000, it addresses both the degradation and synthesis arms of matrix turnover.
Research protocol summary
- Route
- Topical
These values summarize cataloged research protocols. They are not personal dosing instructions or medical guidance.
Pharmacokinetic Profile
- Half-life
- Not established
Molecular Structure
- Weight
- 736.98 Da
- CAS
- Not Available
Research Protocols
topical
Safety Profile Lipopeptide (Biopeptide EL) is used in topical cosmetic formulations and is generally well-tolerated. As a topical agent with limited systemic absorption, it has a favorable safety profile for cosmetic applications.
Quality Indicators
What to look for
- Well-established safety profile
Frequently Asked Questions
References (1)
- [1]Lintner K, Peschard O Biologically active peptides: from a laboratory bench curiosity to a functional skin care product International Journal of Cosmetic Science (2000)
→ Foundational cosmetic-peptide paper showing that palmitoylation of short bioactive peptides increases stratum corneum penetration 100-1000 fold, the delivery principle behind palmitoylated tetra/tripeptides used in anti-aging skincare.
Continue researching Lipopeptide (Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 / Pal-GQPR)
Keep scientific evidence separate from commercial availability. Review how claims are evaluated, explore question-led research paths, or inspect disclosed source records without changing the editorial conclusions on this page.