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Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1

Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 (Pal-GHK)

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

Overview

A lipopeptide consisting of the GHK (Gly-His-Lys) sequence attached to a palmitoyl fatty acid chain. It mimics the body's own collagen-repair signaling by acting as a matrikine — a fragment of extracellular matrix proteins that signals fibroblasts to produce new collagen. Often combined with Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 in commercial formulations (marketed as Matrixyl 3000).

Half-Life
~3-5 hours (topical bioactivity window)
Typical Dose
2–5 mg
Frequency
Twice daily (topical application)
Cycle Length
Continuous daily use; visible results at 8-12 weeks

Administration

Topical

Benefits

  • Stimulates collagen I and III production in dermal fibroblasts
  • Reduces wrinkle depth and skin roughness
  • Improves skin tone and luminosity
  • Enhances extracellular matrix repair signaling
  • Synergistic with Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 (as Matrixyl 3000)
  • Well-tolerated with minimal irritation potential

Side Effects

  • Rare mild skin irritation
  • No significant systemic effects due to topical-only use

Mechanism of Action

  • GHK sequence acts as a matrikine, mimicking collagen degradation fragments
  • Activates TGF-beta signaling to upregulate collagen gene transcription
  • Palmitoyl group enhances stratum corneum penetration for improved dermal delivery
  • Stimulates fibroblast proliferation and glycosaminoglycan synthesis
  • Synergizes with anti-inflammatory peptides to reduce inflammaging

Contraindications

  • Known allergy to any component
  • Severely compromised skin barrier (open wounds, active infections)

Storage & Reconstitution

Store topical formulations at room temperature (15–25°C (59–77°F)) away from sunlight. Concentrated solutions: keep at 2–8°C (36–46°F). Stable for 12-24 months in properly formulated products.

Common peptide amounts:5 mg10 mg

Research Summary

Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 was developed as a biomimetic signaling peptide based on the naturally occurring GHK sequence. In vitro studies demonstrated significant upregulation of collagen I and III synthesis in human dermal fibroblasts. When combined with Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 (as Matrixyl 3000, developed by Sederma), clinical studies showed synergistic wrinkle reduction superior to either peptide alone. A 12-week study demonstrated up to 44% reduction in wrinkle volume. It is widely incorporated in premium anti-aging skincare products.

Commonly Stacked With

CosmeticPalmitoyl Pentapeptide-4
CosmeticAcetyl Hexapeptide-3
CosmeticGHK-Cu

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any peptide.