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

Get it free
ToolsCompareThymosin Alpha-1 vs Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7

Thymosin Alpha-1 vs Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7

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

Immune SupportAnti-Aging & Longevity
Thymosin Alpha-1
Skin & Cosmetic
Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7
Summary
Thymosin Alpha-1 is a naturally occurring 28-amino acid peptide derived from the thymus gland. It is a powerful immune modulator approved in many countries for treating chronic hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and as an adjunct in cancer immunotherapy.
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
2–3 hours
Topical penetration-dependent; effects last hours to days
Admin Route
SubQ
Topical
Research
Typical Dose
0.8–1.6 mg
2-5 ppm concentration in formulation
Frequency
Twice weekly
Twice daily
Key Benefits
  • Enhances T-cell and NK cell activity
  • Supports recovery from viral and bacterial infections
  • May reduce inflammation systemically
  • Supports healthy aging and immune resilience
  • Improves vaccine response
  • Supports liver health
  • May help with chronic fatigue syndrome and post-viral conditions
  • Approved in multiple countries for hepatitis B and C treatment
  • 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
  • Injection site irritation
  • Mild flu-like symptoms initially (immune activation)
  • Fatigue (rare)
  • Contact sensitization (rare)
  • Well-tolerated at standard concentrations
Stacks With