Skin & CosmeticMaturing human RCT base

Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4 / Matrixyl 3000

Matrixyl, Collagen 'signal' peptide

A topical collagen 'signal' peptide (palmitoyl pentapeptide-4) that prompts fibroblasts to synthesize collagen, among the best studied cosmetic peptides.

Collagen Skin quality Anti inflammatory

pal-KTTKS

Signal peptide

Collagen I/IV

Stimulates

~36%

Wrinkle area drop

Mechanism of action

How Matrixyl works

A collagen fragment mimic applied topically: it 'tricks' fibroblasts into thinking collagen has broken down, prompting them to build more. One of the best studied cosmetic peptides.

Matrixyl

pal-KTTKS

Fibroblasts

Signaled

Collagen I & IV ↑

Matrix rebuild

Smoother skin

Fewer wrinkles

Also studied

Signals fibroblasts to synthesize collagen I and IV, the structural proteins that thin with age.

See related compounds

The Matrixyl 3000 blend adds palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7, which suppresses IL-6 inflammation.

See related compounds

Split face trials show reduced wrinkle surface area (up to ~36%), depth, and roughness, comparable to retinol with better tolerability.

See related compounds

Applications

Research applications

Wrinkle reduction

Collagen synthesis

Controlled human trial

Split face DBPC trials

Skin firmness

Dermal matrix

Controlled human trial

12-week studies

Anti inflammatory

IL-6 suppression (3000)

In vitro / cell model

Mechanistic

Bars indicate how far the evidence has progressed (in vitro to animal to human), not the size of any effect.

Compound data

Molecular profile

CAS number214047-00-4

Molecular formulaC39H75N7O10

Molecular weight802.07 g/mol

TypeLipopeptide (matrikine)

SequencePalmitoyl-Lys-Thr-Thr-Lys-Ser (Pal-KTTKS)

AppearanceOff white powder

Full profile

Evidence, safety & status

Claimed benefits & evidence

Among the best studied cosmetic peptides. Multiple double blind, placebo controlled split face trials (e.g., 93 women, 12 weeks) showed reduced wrinkle surface area (up to ~36%), depth, and roughness, comparable to retinol with better tolerability. Caveat: many trials are small and several are manufacturer funded.

Safety & dangers

Very well tolerated; no photosensitivity; suitable for sensitive skin. Topical only, negligible systemic risk.

Regulatory status

OTC cosmetic ingredient (legal). WADA: not prohibited (topical cosmetic).

Administration

Topical.

Source: Fnx Performance Peptide Research Database, a synthesis of the scientific and regulatory literature, not medical advice. Anyone considering these compounds should consult a qualified physician.

For research use only

For Research Use Only. Not for human or animal consumption. Products are sold strictly for in vitro laboratory research, not for compounding or therapeutic application.