Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1

Cosmetic-Grade

Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 is the INCI-registered cosmetic ingredient name for a lipidated tripeptide consisting of a palmitic acid chain conjugated to the sequence Glycine-Histidine-Lysine (Pal-GHK). It functions as a matrikine — a small peptide fragment that mimics extracellular matrix degradation products and signals fibroblasts to initiate repair and remodeling. By activating TGF-β signaling and stimulating fibroblast proliferation, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 drives synthesis of collagen types I and III, fibronectin, and glycosaminoglycans in the dermal layer. The palmitic acid moiety serves as a lipid anchor that dramatically improves penetration through the stratum corneum compared to the unmodified GHK tripeptide. Once past the epidermal barrier, skin esterases cleave the palmitoyl group to release the bioactive GHK fragment. Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 is the core active ingredient in the original Matrixyl formulation developed by Sederma and is combined with Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 in Matrixyl 3000. Controlled clinical trials have demonstrated statistically significant reductions in wrinkle depth, improvements in skin firmness and elasticity, and increased procollagen I production at concentrations as low as 50 ppm over 8-12 week treatment periods. The ingredient has an excellent safety profile with no reported phototoxicity, sensitization, or irritation in standard dermatological testing. It is compatible with most cosmetic actives including retinoids, vitamin C derivatives, and hyaluronic acid, making it a versatile component in multi-peptide anti-aging regimens.