Cosmetic & Skin

Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1

Also known as Pal-GHK · Palmitoyl Oligopeptide · Pal-Gly-His-Lys · Palmitoyl GHK

PreliminaryTopicalRegulated as a cosmetic ingredient, not an FDA-approved drug; it may be lawfully included in topical cosmetic products in the U.S. provided no drug claims are made. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has assessed palmitoyl tripeptide ingredients as safe as used in cosmetics. It is not a controlled substance and is not a compounded injectable peptide, so the 503A/503B compounding framework and the April 2026 FDA bulks-list changes do not apply to its cosmetic use. It is not specifically named on the WADA Prohibited List; as a topical cosmetic peptide it is generally outside the scope of doping concern, though athletes should verify any product with their sport's anti-doping authority.

Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 (Pal-GHK) is a synthetic cosmetic peptide consisting of the tripeptide glycine-histidine-lysine (GHK) conjugated to palmitic acid, with the INCI name Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 (CAS 147732-56-7). It is best known as a component of the commercial complex Matrixyl 3000 and is described as a matrikine, or cell-signaling, peptide: in laboratory (in vitro) models the GHK sequence is reported to signal dermal fibroblasts to increase extracellular-matrix components such as collagen, fibronectin, and hyaluronic acid, while the palmitoyl chain acts as a lipophilic anchor intended to aid skin penetration. The evidence base is a mix of in vitro fibroblast studies and largely manufacturer-conducted human topical (in-vivo) testing reporting reduced wrinkle appearance; independent, large-scale clinical trials are limited. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel evaluated palmitoyl tripeptide ingredients and concluded they are safe as used in cosmetics, with human patch testing reported as non-irritating and non-sensitizing. It is used exclusively as a topical leave-on or rinse-off skincare ingredient and is not an FDA-approved drug.

Studied / used for

Investigated for reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles in topical skincare
Studied in vitro for signaling fibroblasts to produce collagen (types I and III)
Studied for promoting extracellular-matrix components such as fibronectin and hyaluronic acid
Investigated for supporting skin firmness, elasticity, and tone
Studied as a skin-conditioning cosmetic ingredient

Commonly reported side effects

Localized skin irritation or redness commonly reported in sensitive individuals
Mild stinging or tingling at the application site occasionally reported
Rare reports of contact sensitivity or allergic reaction
Dryness or transient irritation when combined with other active ingredients

Preliminary. Mostly early or animal studies. 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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