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phase 2Skin & Cosmetic

Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1

Also known as: Pal-GHK, Palmitoyl Oligopeptide, Biopeptide-CL, Palmitoyl-Glycyl-Histidyl-Lysine

Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 is a lipopeptide consisting of the tripeptide GHK (glycyl-histidyl-lysine) linked to palmitic acid for enhanced skin penetration. It mimics the activity of growth factors by stimulating collagen I, III, and fibronectin synthesis in dermal fibroblasts, making it one of the most widely used anti-aging peptides in cosmeceutical formulations. It is a key component of the Matrixyl 3000 complex alongside Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7.

3 cited references·5 researched benefits

Quick Answer

Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 (pal-GHK) is a collagen-stimulating lipopeptide used in anti-aging skincare. It consists of the GHK sequence linked to palmitic acid for better skin absorption. By activating TGF-beta signaling in dermal fibroblasts, it stimulates production of collagen types I and III, fibronectin, and hyaluronic acid. It is a core ingredient of the Matrixyl 3000 anti-wrinkle complex.

Key Facts

Mechanism
Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 acts as a matrikine, a fragment of extracellular matrix proteins that signals skin cells to produce more structural components. The GHK sequence mimics a collagen breakdown fragment that activates TGF-beta signaling in dermal fibroblasts. This triggers upregulation of collagen types I and III, fibronectin, and glycosaminoglycan synthesis. The palmitoyl (C16 fatty acid) moiety enhances lipophilicity, allowing the peptide to penetrate the stratum corneum far more effectively than the unmodified GHK tripeptide. Once in the dermis, the palmitic acid is cleaved, releasing active GHK to interact with fibroblast receptors.
Research Status
phase 2
Half-Life
N/A (topical cosmeceutical — not systemically absorbed)
Molecular Formula
C₃₂H₅₇N₅O₆
Primary Use
Skin & Cosmetic
Table of Contents

Benefits

  • Stimulates collagen types I and III synthesis in dermal fibroblasts, improving skin firmness and structuremoderate
  • Enhances fibronectin and hyaluronic acid production, supporting skin hydration and elasticitymoderate
  • Reduces visible wrinkle depth — clinical studies on the Matrixyl 3000 complex show measurable wrinkle reduction after 2 monthsmoderate
  • Improved skin penetration versus unmodified GHK due to palmitoyl lipid anchorstrong
  • Synergistic anti-aging effects when combined with Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 in the Matrixyl 3000 systemmoderate

Dosage Protocols

RouteDosage RangeFrequencyNotes
Topical serum2–5 ppm (parts per million) active peptide1–2x dailyApply to clean skin before heavier creams or moisturizers. Most effective when combined with Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 in the Matrixyl 3000 complex. Allow 2–3 minutes absorption before layering products.
Topical cream or lotion100–500 ppm in finished formulation2x daily (morning and evening)Often formulated alongside other collagen-stimulating ingredients such as retinol, vitamin C, or GHK-Cu. Stable in formulations between pH 5.0 and 7.0.

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 skin irritation or redness at application site, particularly during initial userare
  • Contact sensitization in individuals with known peptide sensitivitiesrare
  • No systemic side effects reported at cosmetic concentrationsrare

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 and Matrixyl 3000?
Matrixyl 3000 is a proprietary complex developed by Sederma that combines Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 (pal-GHK) with Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 (pal-GQPR). While Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 stimulates collagen and fibronectin synthesis, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 reduces IL-6-mediated inflammation and glycation. Together they address both the structural and inflammatory components of skin aging, producing synergistic anti-wrinkle effects.
How does Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 compare to GHK-Cu?
Both peptides share the GHK tripeptide sequence but differ in their modifications. Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 uses a palmitic acid chain for skin penetration, while GHK-Cu chelates copper ions for additional antioxidant and gene-modulating effects. GHK-Cu has broader biological activity including wound healing and anti-inflammatory effects. Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 is more targeted toward collagen stimulation in cosmetic formulations. Many skincare regimens incorporate both.
How long does it take to see results from Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1?
Most clinical studies show measurable improvements in wrinkle depth, skin firmness, and hydration after 4–8 weeks of consistent twice-daily application. Collagen remodeling is a gradual process, so optimal results typically develop over 2–3 months of continued use. Early improvements in skin texture and hydration may be noticeable within 2–3 weeks.

References

  1. 1
    Cosmeceutical peptides in the framework of sustainable wellness economy(2021)
  2. 2
    Anti-aging efficacy of Matrixyl 3000 complex: a clinical and in vitro evaluation(2013)
  3. 3
    Topical peptides as cosmeceuticals: mechanisms of action and therapeutic applications in dermatology(2015)PubMed ↗

Latest Research

Last updated: 2026-02-19