IGF-1 DES vs Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
Anabolic & IGF
IGF-1 DESSkin & Cosmetic
Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7- Summary
- IGF-1 DES (also written DES(1-3)IGF-1) is a truncated form of IGF-1 missing the first three amino acids of the N-terminus. This structural change dramatically reduces its affinity for IGF binding proteins (IGFBPs), meaning a far greater fraction remains in its free, active form. IGF-1 DES is estimated to be 10x more potent than standard IGF-1 LR3 at the receptor level locally, making it particularly effective for site-specific muscle growth when injected intramuscularly.
- 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
- ~20–30 minutes (very short — designed for local action)
- Topical penetration-dependent; effects last hours to days
- Admin Route
- IM, SubQ
- Topical
- Research
- —
- —
- Typical Dose
- 20–50 mcg per injection site
- 2-5 ppm concentration in formulation
- Frequency
- Once daily, post-workout
- Twice daily
- Key Benefits
- Estimated 10x greater potency at the receptor vs IGF-1 LR3 locally
- Minimal IGFBP binding — nearly all active upon injection
- Highly localized muscle growth effect when injected intramuscularly
- Activates satellite cells for muscle fiber hyperplasia potential
- Synergistic with GH peptides in post-workout anabolic protocols
- Shorter half-life reduces systemic exposure vs IGF-1 LR3
- Useful for site-specific muscle development
- 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
- Hypoglycemia (most significant risk — especially post-workout)
- Localized muscle swelling at injection site
- Potential for jaw/organ growth (acromegalic effects) with prolonged high-dose use
- Carpal tunnel syndrome with high doses
- +1 more
- Contact sensitization (rare)
- Well-tolerated at standard concentrations
- Stacks With
- —
- —