Tetrapeptide-30 is a synthetic peptide PKEK (sequence: Pro-Lys-Glu-Lys) that contains a KEK (Lys-Glu-Lys) motif found in antimicrobial polypeptide cathelicidin which can reduce post-inflammatory or UV-induced hyperpigmentation. Many clinical studies showed the effectiveness of PKEK peptide in balancing skin tone and regulating pigmentation-inducing factors.
The most common skin-brightening approach is the inhibition of the tyrosinase enzyme involved in melanin production, which doesn't consider the inducing factor for melanogenesis. Tetrapeptide-30 enables a safe, "smart," and skin-friendly way of lessening hyperpigmentation by inhibiting keratinocyte-induced activation of melanocytes.
Lessening pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin-6 (IL-6) and interleukin-8 (IL-8) release from stressed keratinocytes, Tetrapeptide-30 inhibits the production of proopiomelanocortin (POMC) peptide, which is a precursor for melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH). In short, PKEK lessens the hormone responsible for melanin production after inflammation or UV exposure, regulating the interaction between keratinocytes and melanocytes.
In addition, Tetrapeptide-30 relieves skin redness and erythema while visibly reducing hyperchromatic age spots and evenly lightening the skin tone. It is equally effective for Caucasian and Asian skin and helps to relieve melasma and/or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or acne lesions for African skin.
