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ToolsComparePalmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 vs IGF-1 LR3

Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 vs IGF-1 LR3

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

Skin & Cosmetic
Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7
Anabolic & IGF
IGF-1 LR3
Summary
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.
IGF-1 LR3 is a synthetic analog of Insulin-like Growth Factor-1 with an extended half-life. It is one of the most potent anabolic peptides available, directly stimulating muscle cell hyperplasia and hypertrophy, and is the downstream mediator of many of GH's anabolic effects.
Half-Life
Topical penetration-dependent; effects last hours to days
20–30 hours
Admin Route
Topical
SubQ, IM
Research
Typical Dose
2-5 ppm concentration in formulation
40–80 mcg
Frequency
Twice daily
Once daily or split twice daily
Key Benefits
  • 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
  • Direct muscle hypertrophy via IGF-1R stimulation
  • Muscle hyperplasia (new fiber formation) — unique among peptides
  • Rapid gains in lean muscle mass
  • Accelerated recovery from training and injury
  • Increased nutrient uptake by muscle cells
  • Fat oxidation enhancement
  • Bone density improvement
  • Cartilage and connective tissue repair
Side Effects
  • Contact sensitization (rare)
  • Well-tolerated at standard concentrations
  • Hypoglycemia (significant risk — insulin-like activity)
  • Acromegaly-like effects with excessive long-term use
  • Jaw and hand swelling
  • Organ hypertrophy with extreme doses
  • +2 more
Stacks With