Acetyl Tetrapeptide-2
Peptide with potential stimulation of thymus-driven epidermal renewal. Features in formulas against tone loss and tired skin.
Evidence by route
Topical application
Data stays limited to manufacturer marketing research. Independent controlled clinical work remains scarce.
How to read tiers A–F
- CWeak evidence. In vitro data, open-label studies, or expert consensus
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Unknown
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Oily, Combination, Sensitive
About this ingredient
Acetyl Tetrapeptide-2 (trade name Uplevity / Thymulen-4 by Sederma) is a synthetic tetrapeptide with an N-acetyl group. Structure models a thymic peptide that regulates immunity and epidermal proliferation. Claimed mechanism. The manufacturer reports thymus-like activity in skin: increased keratinocyte proliferation, synthesis of type IV and VII collagen in the basement membrane, and fibrillin-1. Thymic activity declines with age, giving rise to a 'mature-skin renewal' marketing rationale. Where applied. Anti-aging serums and creams for 40+ skin (2–5%). Often combined with Matrixyl peptides, retinol, niacinamide. Brands: Sesderma Mesoses, Skeyndor Power Hyaluronic, Cremorlab. Evidence base. Manufacturer in vitro data – type IV collagen synthesis up to +67%. No independent RCTs with clinical endpoints. Safety. Hypoallergenic, non-irritating, non-comedogenic. Topical systemic absorption is minimal. Pregnancy and lactation – no data. As a precaution, in pregnancy choose peptides with a better-studied profile (Matrixyl 3000) or gentler alternatives (adenosine, niacinamide). Realistic take. Weak independent evidence but a safe profile. Used as part of a multi-active serum, not on its own.
Frequently asked questions
Is Acetyl Tetrapeptide-2 safe during pregnancy?
Safety data for Acetyl Tetrapeptide-2 during pregnancy is insufficient. Best avoided when in doubt.
What skin types is Acetyl Tetrapeptide-2 for?
Acetyl Tetrapeptide-2 suits: normal, dry, oily, combination, sensitive.
What is Acetyl Tetrapeptide-2 and what does it do in cosmetics?
Peptide with potential stimulation of thymus-driven epidermal renewal.
What's the INCI name for Acetyl Tetrapeptide-2?
The INCI name is Acetyl Tetrapeptide-2.
See Acetyl Tetrapeptide-2 in a product composition right on the store page
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to iHerb, Sephora, Druni and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
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