Matrixyl
Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4 · Pal-KTTKS · Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-3
A palmitoylated pentapeptide and one of the most widely studied and used cosmetic anti-aging peptides, functioning as a matrikine to stimulate collagen and extracellular matrix production.
Half-Life
N/A (topical cosmetic)
MW
802.05 Da
Amino Acids
5 AA
Evidence
Clinical
Regulatory Status
Cosmetic ingredient globally. INCI: Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4. Available OTC in skincare formulations.
In Plain English
A five-amino acid signal that tells your skin's fibroblast cells "your collagen is degrading — make more!" It mimics a natural fragment your body releases when collagen breaks down, tricking your skin into ramping up collagen production. One of the most proven anti-aging skincare ingredients available.
Overview
Matrixyl (Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4) is a fatty acid-conjugated pentapeptide that is the active ingredient in a large proportion of commercial anti-aging skincare products worldwide. It is a matrikine — a fragment of collagen degradation products — that signals to fibroblasts to upregulate collagen, fibronectin, and hyaluronic acid production. The palmitoyl group enables skin penetration. Developed by Sederma (now part of Croda), Matrixyl has over 25 years of commercial history and multiple published randomized controlled trials showing measurable wrinkle reduction.
Common Formats
- Topical serum
- Cream
- Eye treatment
- Moisturizer
Storage Notes
Room temperature. Stable in broad pH range (4-7). Protect from UV and heat for optimal shelf life.
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Related Compounds
Argireline
A synthetic acetyl hexapeptide that mimics the N-terminus of SNAP-25, inhibiting neuromuscular signalling to relax facial muscles and reduce expression-line wrinkles — widely used in cosmetic skincare.
GHK-Cu
A naturally occurring copper complex peptide with potent wound healing, anti-aging, and regenerative properties studied extensively for skin and tissue applications.
Palmitoyl GHK (Pal-GHK)
Lipophilic derivative of GHK peptide with enhanced skin penetration — cornerstone of anti-aging skincare formulations.
Snap-8
An extended octapeptide analogue of Argireline that adds additional SNARE complex inhibition domains, studied for greater potency in reducing expression-line wrinkles compared to Argireline alone.
Educational Disclaimer: All information on this page is for educational and research purposes only. This does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional.