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phase 2Skin & Cosmetic

Palmitoyl Tripeptide-38

Also known as: Matrixyl Synthe'6, Matrixyl Synthe 6, Pal-Tripeptide-38, SEDERMA Matrixyl Synthe'6

Palmitoyl Tripeptide-38 is an advanced matrikine lipopeptide developed by Sederma (dsm-firmenich) and marketed as Matrixyl Synthe'6. It is the only cosmetic peptide demonstrated to simultaneously stimulate the production of six major structural molecules of the skin matrix: collagen I, collagen III, collagen IV, fibronectin, hyaluronic acid, and laminin-5. This multi-target approach addresses both dermal and dermal-epidermal junction repair, making it one of the most comprehensive anti-aging peptides available.

3 cited references·5 researched benefits

Quick Answer

Palmitoyl Tripeptide-38 (Matrixyl Synthe'6) is an advanced anti-aging lipopeptide that simultaneously stimulates production of six key skin matrix molecules: collagen I, collagen III, collagen IV, fibronectin, hyaluronic acid, and laminin-5. This multi-target mechanism addresses both dermal structural repair and dermal-epidermal junction integrity. Clinical studies show significant wrinkle reduction comparable to or exceeding the original Matrixyl formulations after 2 months of use.

Key Facts

Mechanism
Palmitoyl Tripeptide-38 functions as a synthetic matrikine that activates multiple signaling pathways in dermal fibroblasts and basal keratinocytes. It stimulates collagen I and III production through TGF-beta activation, collagen IV and laminin-5 synthesis at the dermal-epidermal junction (DEJ), fibronectin production for cell adhesion and structural scaffolding, and hyaluronic acid synthesis for hydration and volume. By targeting the DEJ specifically — the critical interface between the epidermis and dermis that flattens and deteriorates with age — it addresses a dimension of skin aging that most other cosmetic peptides miss. The palmitoyl chain ensures effective penetration through the stratum corneum to reach dermal fibroblasts.
Research Status
phase 2
Half-Life
N/A (topical cosmeceutical — not systemically absorbed)
Molecular Formula
C₃₃H₅₉N₅O₇
Primary Use
Skin & Cosmetic
Table of Contents

Benefits

  • Stimulates synthesis of six major skin matrix molecules simultaneously — collagen I, III, IV, fibronectin, hyaluronic acid, and laminin-5moderate
  • Repairs the dermal-epidermal junction, restoring the structural interface that flattens with agemoderate
  • Clinical studies show significant wrinkle depth reduction comparable to or exceeding original Matrixyl formulationsmoderate
  • Increases skin hydration through stimulation of hyaluronic acid productionmoderate
  • Improves skin firmness and elasticity by boosting both collagen and structural glycoproteinspreliminary

Dosage Protocols

RouteDosage RangeFrequencyNotes
Topical serum2–4% Matrixyl Synthe'6 solution1–2x dailyApply to clean skin before moisturizer. Can be combined with Matrixyl 3000 for even broader anti-aging coverage. Effective at lower concentrations than first-generation Matrixyl due to enhanced multi-target activity.
Topical cream2–4% Matrixyl Synthe'6 solution2x daily (morning and evening)Stable in formulations at pH 5.0–7.0. Compatible with retinol, vitamin C derivatives, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid. Results typically visible after 4–8 weeks of consistent use.

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 at the application site in sensitive individualsrare
  • Contact sensitization in rare cases of peptide hypersensitivityrare
  • No systemic adverse effects reported at cosmetic concentrationsrare

Frequently Asked Questions

How does Palmitoyl Tripeptide-38 compare to the original Matrixyl?
The original Matrixyl (Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4) primarily stimulates collagen I and fibronectin synthesis. Matrixyl 3000 added anti-inflammatory benefits. Palmitoyl Tripeptide-38 (Matrixyl Synthe'6) represents the third generation, targeting six matrix molecules instead of two or three. It is particularly notable for its activity at the dermal-epidermal junction — stimulating collagen IV and laminin-5, which other Matrixyl formulations do not specifically target.
Why is the dermal-epidermal junction important for anti-aging?
The dermal-epidermal junction (DEJ) is the wavy boundary between the epidermis and dermis, anchored by collagen IV and laminin-5. With age, this junction flattens and weakens, reducing nutrient exchange between skin layers and contributing to thinning, sagging, and fragility. By stimulating DEJ components, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-38 addresses a fundamental structural change that most anti-aging products overlook.
Can I combine Matrixyl Synthe'6 with other Matrixyl products?
Yes, and this is a popular approach in advanced anti-aging skincare. Combining Matrixyl Synthe'6 with Matrixyl 3000 (which includes anti-inflammatory Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7) provides comprehensive coverage: collagen stimulation, matrix repair, DEJ reinforcement, and inflammation reduction. There are no known negative interactions between these peptide complexes.

References

  1. 1
    Matrixyl Synthe'6: a new generation matrikine peptide stimulating six major components of the skin extracellular matrix(2012)
  2. 2
    Topical peptides as cosmeceuticals: mechanisms of action and therapeutic applications in dermatology(2015)PubMed ↗
  3. 3
    Advances in cosmeceutical peptides targeting the dermal-epidermal junction: collagen IV and laminin-5 stimulation(2018)

Latest Research

Last updated: 2026-02-19