New — Free Peptide Starter Guide (2026): 13 chapters, 34 cited studies

Get it free
ToolsCompareGlutathione vs Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7

Glutathione vs Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7

Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.

Anti-Aging & LongevityImmune Support
Glutathione
Skin & Cosmetic
Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7
Summary
Glutathione is the body's master endogenous antioxidant tripeptide, composed of glutamate, cysteine, and glycine. It neutralizes reactive oxygen species, supports detoxification in the liver, recycles other antioxidants (vitamins C and E), and plays a central role in immune function, DNA repair, and cellular redox balance.
Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 (Rigin) is a cosmetic peptide consisting of palmitic acid linked to the tetrapeptide sequence GQPR (Gly-Gln-Pro-Arg). It was designed to mimic the biological activity of the IgG immunoglobulin C-terminus, which downregulates the production of interleukin-6 (IL-6), a key driver of skin aging and inflammation.
Half-Life
Minutes to hours depending on route; IV half-life approximately 10-30 minutes
Topical penetration-dependent; effects last hours to days
Admin Route
Oral (liposomal preferred), Sublingual, Intravenous, Nebulized/inhaled, Topical
Topical
Research
Typical Dose
250-1000 mg per day
2-5 ppm concentration in formulation
Frequency
Once or twice daily
Twice daily
Key Benefits
  • Primary endogenous antioxidant and free radical scavenger
  • Supports hepatic detoxification of xenobiotics and heavy metals
  • Recycles vitamins C and E to maintain antioxidant network
  • Modulates immune function and T-cell activity
  • Skin brightening via inhibition of tyrosinase (IV/topical routes)
  • Neuroprotective in oxidative stress-related conditions
  • Mitochondrial protection and energy metabolism support
  • Reduces IL-6 inflammatory cytokine in skin
  • Prevents 'inflammaging' of the skin
  • Inhibits MMP collagen-degrading enzymes
  • Synergistic with Matrixyl for anti-aging
  • Clinically tested for wrinkle and skin texture improvement
  • Well-tolerated topically
Side Effects
  • Oral bioavailability is limited (largely hydrolyzed in gut); liposomal or sublingual forms preferred
  • IV administration: rare allergic reactions, vein irritation
  • High-dose supplementation may cause zinc depletion over time
  • Inhaled glutathione may trigger bronchoconstriction in asthmatics
  • Contact sensitization (rare)
  • Well-tolerated at standard concentrations
Stacks With