Cosmetic & Skin

Matrixyl 3000

Also known as Palmitoyl Pentapeptide blend · Pal-GHK + Pal-GQPR · Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 + Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 · Matrikine peptide complex

Emerging researchTopical (cosmetic skincare formulations)Marketed as a cosmetic ingredient, not an FDA-approved drug; in the US, cosmetics and their ingredients (other than most color additives) do not require FDA pre-market approval, and the manufacturer is responsible for safety. The constituent peptides (palmitoyl tripeptide-1 and palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7) have been reviewed by the independent Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel and concluded safe as used in cosmetics; they are also permitted in the EU under Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009. As a topical cosmetic with no recognized systemic anabolic or performance-enhancing action, it is not listed on the WADA Prohibited List. 503A/503B pharmacy compounding rules generally do not apply, as this is a cosmetic topical ingredient rather than a compounded injectable drug.

Matrixyl 3000 is a trademarked topical cosmetic ingredient developed by Sederma that combines two lipidated "matrikine" signaling peptides, palmitoyl tripeptide-1 (Pal-GHK) and palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7 (Pal-GQPR). The peptides are designed to mimic fragments of degraded collagen and to modulate interleukin-6 signaling, with the proposed aim of cueing fibroblasts toward extracellular-matrix synthesis while limiting matrix breakdown. Manufacturer and small published human-use studies report reductions in the surface area occupied by wrinkles and improvements in skin tonicity over roughly two months of regular topical use, and a 2024 study examined the combination in a multi-component eye cream. The overall evidence base is modest, consists largely of supplier-sponsored or small panel studies, and outcomes are appearance-focused rather than measures of structural skin change. It is used in over-the-counter cosmetic skincare formulations and is not an approved drug.

Studied / used for

Investigated for the appearance of fine lines and deep wrinkles
Studied for supporting skin firmness and tonicity
Investigated as a signaling cue for fibroblast collagen and elastin synthesis in cosmetic formulations
Studied for general signs of skin aging in topical anti-aging products

Commonly reported side effects

Mild application-site redness commonly reported, mainly in sensitive skin
Occasional itching or transient irritation reported at the application site
Reports of irritation or sensitization are uncommon

Emerging research. Active research; human evidence still developing. This reflects the strength of the research base, not effectiveness or a recommendation.

Not medical advice.

This is an educational reference. Peptalk does not recommend, prescribe, endorse, or rate any compound, and provides no dosing information. Do not start, stop, or change any peptide, hormone, supplement, or therapy based on this page. All clinical decisions must be made with your licensed healthcare provider.

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