Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1
Palmitoyl-GHK (Pal-Gly-His-Lys)
Overview
Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 is a synthetic peptide combining palmitic acid with the GHK tripeptide sequence to create a lipophilic compound with enhanced skin penetration. It is one of the most clinically validated anti-aging cosmetic peptides with multiple controlled trials demonstrating improvements in wrinkle depth skin firmness and overall skin appearance. The palmitic acid modification dramatically improves penetration through the stratum corneum compared to unmodified GHK making it one of the most effective topical peptides for skin rejuvenation.
Mechanism of Action
Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 acts as a matrikine — a fragment of extracellular matrix proteins that signals to fibroblasts to produce more matrix components. It mimics the collagen breakdown signal that normally triggers repair synthesis sending fibroblasts into a collagen-producing state. The GHK sequence activates the TGF-β pathway in dermal fibroblasts stimulating synthesis of collagen types I III and IV as well as elastin fibronectin and hyaluronic acid. The palmitoyl group anchors the peptide in the lipid bilayer of cell membranes improving receptor interaction and extending the duration of signaling. Clinical studies have demonstrated significant reductions in wrinkle depth and improvements in skin density comparable to retinol but with better tolerability.
Dosage Information
Typical Dose
2-4% concentration in topical formulation
Frequency
Once or twice daily application
Administration
Topical serum or cream
Notes
Most effective in combination with Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 — these two peptides are frequently formulated together as Matrixyl 3000. Results typically visible after 4-8 weeks of consistent use.
Where does Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 sit?
See how this peptide compares across all 111 peptides in our database.
Evidence Score
0.20
Compound Data
Molecular Formula
C30H54N6O5
Molecular Weight
578.80 g/mol
IUPAC Name
(2S)-6-amino-2-[[(2S)-2-[[2-(hexadecanoylamino)acetyl]amino]-3-(1H-imidazol-5-yl)propanoyl]amino]hexanoic acid
PubChem CID
10231864Potential Side Effects
Community Experiences
No experiences shared yet. Be the first!
Quick Facts
- Administration
- Topical serum or cream
- Typical Dose
- 2-4% concentration in topical formulation
- Frequency
- Once or twice daily application
- References
- 0 curated + 22 from PubMed
- Evidence Score
- 0.2 / 100