Researched by Helena DeMaria-Williams
Formula IngredientPeptidePalmitoyl Tripeptide-1
INCI: Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1
Palmitoyl tripeptide-1 (Pal-GHK) is a synthetic signal peptide composed of three amino acids — glycine, histidine, and lysine (GHK) — bonded to palmitic acid to improve skin penetration. It works by mimicking the natural collagen breakdown signal, tricking fibroblasts into producing new collagen, elastin, and glycosaminoglycans. It is one of the two peptides that make up the well-known Matrixyl 3000 complex, alongside palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7.
Category
Peptide
Irritation Risk
Low
Skin Types
all skin types, mature skin, anti-ageing concerns, sensitive skin, acne-prone skin
What does this do in a formula?
collagen stimulation, wrinkle reduction, improved skin firmness, enhanced elasticity, anti-ageing, skin conditioning
Is Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 safe? Key considerations
Can Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 cause irritation?
Low RiskPalmitoyl tripeptide-1 is well tolerated across skin types and is not known to cause irritation at typical cosmetic concentrations. No Annex II (banned) or Annex III (restricted) status is recorded in the EU CosIng database. It is considered one of the gentler anti-ageing actives.
Does Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 increase sun sensitivity?
No RiskPalmitoyl tripeptide-1 does not increase photosensitivity. No special sun protection measures are required based solely on its presence in a formulation.
Is Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 safe during pregnancy?
CautionNo specific reproductive toxicity data is available for palmitoyl tripeptide-1 in humans. As a synthetic peptide with large molecular weight, dermal absorption is expected to be minimal, which limits systemic exposure. However, due to the absence of formal pregnancy safety studies, caution is recommended and it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider during pregnancy. (Single source: absence of data — MANUAL REVIEW recommended for formal pregnancy safety confirmation.)
How does Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 work?
Palmitoyl tripeptide-1 (Pal-GHK) is a synthetic signal peptide composed of three amino acids — glycine, histidine, and lysine (GHK) — bonded to palmitic acid to improve skin penetration. It works by mimicking the natural collagen breakdown signal, tricking fibroblasts into producing new collagen, elastin, and glycosaminoglycans. It is one of the two peptides that make up the well-known Matrixyl 3000 complex, alongside palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7.
Which products contain Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1?
Shop products that contain Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1
Caffeine Eye Cream
Hyaluronic Acid Serum
Hyaluronic Acid Serum
Supersize Hyaluronic Acid Serum
Tripeptide Plumping Lip Balm
Collagen Peptide Serum
Retinol Serum
Multi-Peptide + Copper Peptides 1% Serum
Matrixyl 10% + HA
