Rigin[i] is a fragment of the IgG antibody found in many mammals. It was first developed after another tetrapeptide, tuftsin, displayed potent neurotrophic and immunostimulatory activities. Rigin is a promising peptide in the world of beauty and cosmetics.
According to research, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide can stimulate the regeneration of collagen fibers in the dermis by serving as a cellular messenger. What’s more, it can heighten hyaluronic acid levels in the skin, promoting firmer, tighter, smoother skin in animals.
It’s just one of many peptides recently discovered for its plethora of skin benefits in animals. However, rigin peptide is one of the most common found in antiaging creams, serums, and moisturizers.
A study reviewed by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel showed a significant increase in skin elasticity, improved skin texture, and a reduction in deep wrinkles. The study also found that this peptide delivered a dose-response for collagen 1, hyaluronic acid, and fibronectin synthesis.
Research shows that rigin can modulate the production of interleukin-6, a signaling molecule that recruits additional immune cells to the site of infection or damage, as research on animals has shown.
In some cases, the immune response may become too large, resulting in damaged healthy tissue and damaged ECM, reducing elastin and collagen. Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 can counteract the effects of IL-6 by lessening the impact of the immune response and shielding the skin from harm.
In animal models, rigin exhibits activity against matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) – a group of enzymes that play a role in the breakdown of ECM proteins during healthy tissue growth.
Rigin can downregulate the activity of MMPs, reducing ECM damage and enabling cells to promote restoration and maintenance of the ECM. Many researchers compare rigin to dehydroepiandrosterone, which is often known as the youth hormone.
Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 peptide is primarily used in antiaging products thanks to its ability to reduce wrinkles and improve skin elasticity. New research shows that rigin could also help reduce cell damage during inflammation, uneven skin tone, and pigmentation. Other studies show it can treat rosacea too.
While the research looks promising, you should understand that more studies need to be carried out in order for it to be recognized as an antiaging skincare elixir.
Currently, there is not enough research to make these claims.
Animal research and studies on mice skin cells[ii] show how rigin can improve the appearance of wrinkles and reduce the effects of aging skin.
It demonstrates how effective Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 is on reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, as well as evening out the skin tone and enhancing skin hydration.
Rigin can also be combined with other ingredients, such as palmitoyl oligopeptide to boost skin rejuvenation as research on animals has shown.
It’s incredibly interesting to see just how powerful this peptide is at replenishing and rejuvenating the skin. Even though research might be young, it’s clear that this peptide offers several benefits regarding skin. That’s why it’s hardly surprising that so many scientists are keen to get their hands on this peptide for their own research studies. With more sufficient evidence of its skincare benefits, rigin peptide should be available in a range of antiaging products. It could even make its way into supplements and replace collagen as the number 1 antiaging ingredient.
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel reviewed the data on rigin peptide to determine it is safe.
At present, there are no reported issues regarding toxicity, hormone disruption, or sensitivity. Still, rigin is quite a new ingredient, and further information will be required to make future reviews on this product.
According to the panel, there are certain reported side effects relating to pigmentation. That’s because rigin can break down skin pigmentation, which can often lead to skin discoloration issues.