Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1
A lipid-modified form of the GHK peptide, used without copper, and one half of the Matrixyl 3000 pair.
Evidence sits with the Matrixyl® 3000 complex rather than with this peptide alone.
On the label: Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1. Also known as pal-GHK, Palmitoyl oligopeptide, Part of Matrixyl 3000.
What it does for you
Works alongside the copper peptide to support firmness. A supporting active, not the lead.
Why we use it
It is one half of Matrixyl® 3000. We claim it as part of that complex rather than on its own, because that is how it has been tested.
Mechanism
A palmitic acid chain is attached to the GHK backbone to help it cross the skin surface, since GHK on its own penetrates poorly. The GHK portion is proposed to signal matrix synthesis.
Use level
Part of Matrixyl 3000 at 3%, the supplier's recommended level.
Commonly confused with
Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 is the same GHK peptide backbone found in Copper Tripeptide-1, but carrying a fatty chain instead of copper. They are related, not interchangeable. It is also not palmitoyl pentapeptide-4, the peptide in the original Matrixyl®.
What the studies say
Panel concluded the ingredient family is safe at present practices of use and concentration. Reports concentration-of-use ranges: Tripeptide-1 at 0.00002 to 0.001 percent; Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 at 0.0000001 to 0.001 percent; Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 at 0.000005 to 0.0015 percent across 249 reported uses.
- Regulatory safety review
Safety Assessment of Tripeptide-1, Hexapeptide-12, Their Metal Salts and Fatty Acyl Derivatives, and Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 as Used in Cosmetics Johnson W Jr, Bergfeld WF, Belsito DV, et al. (Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel). International Journal of Toxicology, 2018. DOI 10.1177/1091581818807863
Industry-funded expert panel, but the standard safety reference for cosmetic ingredients.