The invention is directed to the cosmetic use of tetrapeptides according to formula (I) R1-Val-Leu-Leu-Lys-R2 (I) wherein R1 is linked to the NH2-terminal group of the peptide and is chosen from the group consisting of —H, a linear saturated or unsaturated or branched saturated or unsaturated acyl group having 1 to 24 carbon atoms, which may be functionalized by a —OH, —SH, —COOH or —CONH2 group wherein R2 is the terminal carboxylic group of the peptide either as —COOR3 or —CO—NH2, and wherein R3 is chosen from the group consisting of —H, a linear saturated or unsaturated or branched saturated or unsaturated alkyl group having 1 to 24 carbon atoms, which may be functionalized by a —OH, —SH, —COOH or —CONH2 group. The invention is also directed to the respective tetrapeptides and cosmetic compositions containing these.