Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 is a synthetic peptide comprised of four amino acids that is used in beauty products and cosmetics to suppress the production of excess interleukins, the chemical messengers which trigger the body’s acute inflammatory response. This can lead to glycation damage, or the process by which glucose links with proteins and causes them to bind together, stiffening tissues. This negatively affects the skin’s support system, comprised of collagen, elastin and other proteins, and leads to wrinkles, sagging, and uneven skin tone (Source). Studies have shown that Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 can slow or suppress the production of excess interleukins, therefore inhibiting unnecessary inappropriate inflammatory responses and glycation damage. In vitro, scientists found that “Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 induced a marked dose-dependent reduction in interleukin production. The higher the concentration of Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide 7, the greater the reduction in interleukin production – up to 40%.” UV radiation is also known to accelerate interleukin production. Cells exposed to UV radiation and then treated with Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 saw an 86% reduction of interleukin production. Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 is a key ingredient in Matrixyl 3000 and is used in conjunction with Palmitoyl-Oligopeptide. Together, they can boost the growth of the connective tissues and naturally increasing the production of collagen in the skin; when the production of collagen is increased, the skin can heal and rejuvenate itself. Safety Measures/Side Effects: There are very few independent studies available on Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7. Under its previous name, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-3, the EWG found it to be 100% safe for use in cosmetics and beauty products.