Research Only Cosmetic & Skin

Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4

also known as: Matrixyl, Pal-KTTKS

The collagen-boosting cosmetic peptide — a palmitoylated 5-amino-acid fragment that signals fibroblasts to produce more collagen, documented in double-blind studies to reduce wrinkle depth.

A palmitoyl-conjugated pentapeptide (Lys-Thr-Thr-Lys-Ser) derived from the type I procollagen C-propeptide sequence, which acts as a matrikine — a matrix fragment that signals fibroblasts to upregulate collagen I, collagen III, and fibronectin production.

Mechanism of action

Acts as a matrikine (extracellular matrix fragment with signaling activity). The KTTKS sequence mimics a feedback signal from collagen degradation, binding to fibroblast surface receptors and upregulating expression of collagen I, collagen III, and fibronectin via TGF-β pathway activation. The palmitoyl group enables stratum corneum penetration.

Primary uses

Anti-aging topical skincare
Wrinkle reduction formulations
Post-procedure skin recovery products

Typical dosing

2–8 % (in topical formulation) daily topical application (topical)

Typically 2–8% of Matrixyl complex (which contains ~100 ppm active pentapeptide) in final product.

Regulatory status

Not a drug. Widely used as a cosmetic ingredient (Sederma trademark Matrixyl). Regulated as a cosmetic, not a drug. Present in hundreds of anti-aging skincare products.

References

[pubmed] Robinson LR, et al. "Topical palmitoyl pentapeptide provides improvement in photoaged human facial skin." Int J Cosmet Sci, 2005;27:155-160.

Related peptides

Matrixyl

A palmitoylated pentapeptide derived from a collagen-I breakdown fragment (KTTKS) — widely used in cosmetic topicals with clinical data supporting modest reductions in fine-line depth over 12 weeks.

Argireline

A cosmetic-industry hexapeptide marketed as "topical Botox" — reduces muscle contraction signaling at the neuromuscular junction; modest but documented effects on expression-line depth.

Collagen Peptides

The world's most-consumed peptide supplement — hydrolyzed collagen fragments with documented effects on skin elasticity, joint comfort, and bone density in clinical trials.

GHK-Cu

A naturally occurring human tripeptide-copper complex with extensive topical cosmetic evidence and strong in-vitro data on collagen synthesis, angiogenesis, and anti-inflammatory signaling.

Disclaimer

This entry is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Dosing information reflects published regulatory or research data and is not a recommendation. Many compounds described here are not approved for human use in the United States. Consult a licensed medical professional before considering any peptide therapy.