Pal-GHK (Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1)
Also known as: Pal-GHK, PAL-GHK, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1
Pal-GHK (Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1) is a lipidated derivative of the well-known GHK matrikine, engineered with a palmitic acid tail to enhance skin penetration. It is widely used in topical anti-aging and collagen-boosting cosmetics.
Last updated
Mechanism of Action
Pal-GHK couples the glycyl-histidyl-lysine (GHK) tripeptide to a palmitoyl chain, improving lipophilicity and transdermal delivery. The GHK matrikine acts as a messenger signal that upregulates collagen, elastin, and glycosaminoglycan synthesis by dermal fibroblasts and modulates expression of remodeling genes. It also influences metalloproteinase activity and supports extracellular matrix repair, contributing to firmer, smoother skin.
- Half-life
- Not formally established; functions locally in the dermis after topical use
- Administration Routes
- topical
- Research Status
- Research Chemical
Reported Benefits
- Stimulates collagen and elastin synthesis in skin
- Improves skin texture, firmness, and elasticity
- Reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
- Supports extracellular matrix remodeling and repair
- Enhanced penetration over unmodified GHK
Potential Side Effects
- Mild localized irritation or redness
- Possible allergic contact dermatitis
- Transient stinging on application
Common Dosing
Incorporated into topical cosmetic formulations at low concentrations, commonly in the range of a few parts per thousand of the peptide. For research and topical cosmetic formulation use only and not personal medical advice.
The dosing information above is aggregated from research literature and anecdotal community reports for educational purposes only. It is not a recommendation, prescription, or medical advice. Peptides are sold as research chemicals only and are not intended for human use.
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to GHK or palmitoyl peptide conjugates
- Application to open wounds or actively inflamed skin
Pal-AHK
Pal-AHK (Palmitoyl Tripeptide-3) is a lipidated cosmetic peptide combining the alanine-histidine-lysine sequence with a palmitic acid tail for improved skin penetration. It is used topically in anti-aging and skin-firming formulations.
GHK-Cu
A naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine) widely researched for skin regeneration, collagen synthesis, and wound healing. Common in topical cosmetics.
Matrixyl
Matrixyl is a palmitoylated pentapeptide (Pal-KTTKS) used topically to stimulate collagen and extracellular matrix synthesis. It is a widely studied cosmetic anti-wrinkle peptide.
SNAP-8
SNAP-8 (Acetyl Octapeptide-3) is a topical cosmetic peptide marketed as a needle-free alternative for softening expression lines by reducing muscle contraction at the surface. It is an elongated analog of the Argireline hexapeptide.
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GHK Peptide as a Natural Modulator of Multiple Cellular Pathways in Skin Regeneration
2015
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Topically applied GHK as an anti-wrinkle peptide: Advantages, problems and prospective
2025
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Palmitoyl copper peptide and acetyl tyrosine complex enhances melanin production in both A375 and B16 cell lines
2025
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EGCG-Biotin-Pal-GHK composition modulates TGF-β and BMP pathways in scalp microenvironment for treating stress-induced alopecia
2026