Skip to content
preclinicalSkin & Cosmetic

Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17

Also known as: Eyelash Growth Peptide, Keratin-Stimulating Peptide, Myr-KTTKS Derivative

Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17 is a lipopeptide designed to stimulate keratin gene expression in hair follicle cells, promoting the growth of eyelashes, eyebrows, and other terminal hairs. It upregulates keratin production at the follicular level, increasing hair thickness, length, and density without the side effects associated with prostaglandin analogs like bimatoprost. It is a key ingredient in many lash serums marketed as alternatives to prescription eyelash growth products.

3 cited references·5 researched benefits

Quick Answer

Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17 is a keratin-stimulating lipopeptide used in eyelash and eyebrow growth serums. It works by upregulating keratin gene expression in hair follicle matrix cells, promoting thicker, longer, and denser hair growth. Unlike prostaglandin analogs (bimatoprost), it does not cause iris color changes or periorbital fat loss. Studies show up to 25% increase in lash length and measurable increases in thickness after 4–8 weeks.

Key Facts

Mechanism
Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17 acts on hair follicle keratinocytes within the matrix region of the follicle bulb. The peptide upregulates the expression of keratin genes, particularly hard keratins (K31, K85) that form the structural backbone of the hair shaft. By increasing keratin protein production, the peptide promotes thicker, more robust hair growth. The myristoyl (C14 fatty acid) modification enhances follicular penetration, allowing the peptide to reach the target cells at the hair root. Unlike prostaglandin analogs (bimatoprost, latanoprost), which extend the anagen growth phase, Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17 primarily enhances the structural output of the existing growth phase, producing thicker and more visible hairs without altering the hair cycle timing.
Research Status
preclinical
Half-Life
N/A (topical cosmeceutical — not systemically absorbed)
Molecular Formula
C₃₈H₆₇N₇O₉
Primary Use
Skin & Cosmetic
Table of Contents

Benefits

  • Stimulates keratin gene expression in hair follicle cells, promoting thicker and longer eyelash and eyebrow growthpreliminary
  • Does not alter iris pigmentation — avoids the iris color change risk associated with prostaglandin analogsmoderate
  • Does not cause periorbital fat atrophy (sunken eyes), a documented side effect of prostaglandin-based lash serumsmoderate
  • Manufacturer studies report up to 25% increase in eyelash length after 8 weeks of daily applicationpreliminary
  • Compatible with other hair growth peptides and actives including biotin, panthenol, and copper peptidespreliminary

Dosage Protocols

RouteDosage RangeFrequencyNotes
Topical lash serum1–5 ppm active peptide in finished formula1x daily (evening)Apply a thin line along the upper lash line with a fine-tip applicator, similar to applying liquid eyeliner. Avoid direct contact with the eye. For eyebrow growth, apply along the brow line. Results typically visible after 4–8 weeks of consistent nightly use.
Topical brow serum1–5 ppm active peptide1–2x dailyBrush or dab onto eyebrow area. Can be combined with biotin, panthenol, and GHK-Cu for enhanced results. Apply to clean, dry skin.

Medical disclaimer

Dosage information is provided for educational reference only. Always follow your prescriber's instructions and consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any peptide protocol.

Side Effects

  • Mild eye area irritation or redness if product comes into direct contact with the eyerare
  • Minor skin sensitivity along the lash line during initial userare
  • No systemic side effects or hormonal effects reported at cosmetic concentrationsrare

Frequently Asked Questions

How does Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17 compare to bimatoprost (Latisse)?
Bimatoprost (Latisse) is an FDA-approved prostaglandin analog that extends the anagen growth phase of eyelashes, producing dramatic length increases. However, it carries risks of iris color change, periorbital fat loss, and eyelid darkening. Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17 works differently — by stimulating keratin production for thicker hairs. Its effects are typically more modest than bimatoprost but it avoids the prostaglandin-related side effects, making it a safer option for long-term cosmetic use.
Can Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17 help with thinning scalp hair?
While the peptide is primarily studied and marketed for eyelash and eyebrow growth, its mechanism of action — upregulating keratin gene expression in hair follicle cells — is theoretically relevant to scalp hair as well. However, there are no published clinical studies specifically evaluating its efficacy on scalp hair. For scalp applications, GHK-Cu and minoxidil have stronger evidence.
How long does it take for eyelash growth peptides to show results?
Eyelash hairs have a growth cycle of approximately 4–8 weeks for the anagen phase. Most users report noticeable improvements in lash thickness and length after 4–8 weeks of consistent nightly application. Maximum results are typically seen at 12–16 weeks. Results require continued use to maintain — discontinuation leads to gradual return to baseline over one to two growth cycles.

References

  1. 1
    Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17: evaluation of a keratin-stimulating peptide for eyelash growth enhancement(2013)
  2. 2
    Peptide-based approaches to eyelash and eyebrow growth: a review of cosmeceutical alternatives to prostaglandin analogs(2018)
  3. 3
    A comprehensive review of peptides in cosmeceuticals: from science to consumer applications(2020)PubMed ↗

Latest Research

Last updated: 2026-02-19