Are there any side effects from the topical application of Acetyl Tetrapeptide-3?

Acetyl tetrapeptide-3 is a biomimetic peptide composed of a chain of four amino acids. This active ingredient is a synthetic compound used in the formulation of various cosmetic products. The acetyl tetrapeptide-3 is particularly used in hair care to prevent hair loss. This active ingredient is notably capable of stimulating the synthesis of certain proteins of the extracellular matrix such as type III collagen and laminin, which ensures a better anchoring to hair fibres.

Indeed, studies have highlighted that there is a link between the synthesis of extracellular matrix compounds and the size of hair follicles, the small epidermal pockets at the base of hair fibres. The application of acetyl tetrapeptide-3 to the hair has the effect ofincreasing the size of hair follicles, which ensures better hair anchorage and thus reduces the risk of hair loss. It is also worth noting that studies have shown that the combination of acetyl tetrapeptide-3 and red clover extract is as effective, if not more so, than the drug minoxidil, which is widely used in cases of alopecia.

Acetyl Tetrapeptide-3 is a very gentle active ingredient whose topical use does not lead to any known side effects. In fact, there is no concentration limit for this ingredient in cosmetic products according to European regulations. These regulations are based on Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009, which sets the standards and requirements that cosmetic products must meet in order to protect consumer health.

It should also be noted that the topical or hair application of a treatment based on acetyl tetrapeptide-3 is not discouraged for pregnant and/or breastfeeding women, nor for children over the age of 3. However, in accordance with the principle of caution, it is advisable to carry out a tolerance test before using a new product. The purpose of this test is to ensure that the application of a treatment does not cause redness, itching or irritation on the skin. To perform the test, apply a small amount of the treatment to a small part of your face, in the crook of your elbow or behind your ear. If you do not notice any adverse reaction within the following 24 hours, it means that your skin tolerates the product well.

• Règlement (CE) No 1223/2009 du Parlement Européen et du Conseil.

• PANCHAPRATEEP R. & al. An herbal extract combination (biochanin A, acetyl tetrapeptide-3, and ginseng extracts) versus 3% minoxidil solution for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia: A 24-week, prospective, randomized, triple-blind, controlled trial. Journal of clinical and aesthetic dermatology (2020).