CalcMyPeptide
Cosmetic PeptideAlso known as: Pal-GHK, Biopeptide CL, collagen-boosting peptide

Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1

Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 (Pal-GHK) is a heavily weaponized cosmetic peptide that forms the foundational core of many elite dermatological matrices (like Matrixyl 3000). Operating as a microscopic biomimetic distress signal, it is utilized to ruthlessly re-awaken dormant dermal fibroblasts. By entirely bypassing surface hydration, it forces structural, deep-tissue collagen rebuilding to reverse the physical depressions of wrinkles and scars.

Reviewed by CalcMyPeptide Editorial Team
Last updated: April 2026Evidence: Moderate1 peer-reviewed citation

Quick Stats

Half-LifeTopical — residence time in dermis dependent on formulation
Dose Range100-500 ppm topical
Frequency1-2× daily (topical)
Vial SizesN/A (oral)
BioavailabilityTopical (percutaneous penetration)
Year Developed1999

Scientific Data

Molecular Formula
C24H41N5O5 (pal-GHK)
Molecular Weight
~563.7 g/mol
Developer
Sederma (France)

Mechanism of Action

Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 (pal-GHK, Biopeptide CL) is a fatty acid-conjugated tripeptide (glycine-histidine-lysine bound to palmitic acid) used in cosmetic anti-aging formulations. The palmitoyl group enhances skin penetration vs free GHK. It stimulates collagen I, III, and elastin synthesis in dermal fibroblasts, upregulates fibronectin production, and reduces matrix metalloproteinase expression — reducing collagen breakdown. Used in prestige skincare (sold under trade names Biopeptide CL / Matrixyl component) to reduce fine lines and improve skin elasticity.

Source: PMID: 15709013

Dosing Protocol

Typical Dose100-500 ppm topical
Frequency1-2× daily (topical)
Half-Life~6-8 hours (topical, estimated)

Dosing Protocols

Topical Application

Dose
1–5 ppm in formulation
Frequency
Twice daily (AM/PM skincare)
Note: Used in serums, creams, eye treatments. Apply to clean, slightly damp skin for best absorption.

Administration

Route
Topical (serum, cream, eye treatment)
Timing
Morning and evening after cleansing.
Fasting Required?
No — food timing not critical

Expected Timeline

Weeks 4-8
Early improvement in skin hydration, reduction in fine line depth.
Months 3-6
Measurable collagen density increase. Visible improvement in skin firmness and texture.

Who Is It For?

Anti-Aging Skincare

High

Strong collagen-stimulating topical peptide. Included in Matrixyl formulations with palmitoyl pentapeptide-4 (Matrixyl 3000 blend).

Fine Lines / Wrinkles

Moderate

Clinical studies show measurable wrinkle depth reduction with twice-daily use over 12 weeks.

Safety & Considerations

Cosmetic ingredient — not a drug. Well-tolerated in topical formulations. Avoid if palmitoyl or GHK allergy (rare). Safe for all skin types at standard concentrations (1-5 ppm).

Regulatory & Legal Status

FDA Status (US)
Research Only
WADA Status (2026)
Not Listed

Not currently on the WADA 2026 Prohibited List. Policies may change — verify before competition.

Classification

Research Chemical

US Compounding: Not eligible / not available

⚠️ This information is for educational purposes only and may not reflect the most current regulatory updates. Always verify with official FDA, WADA, and jurisdiction-specific sources before use.

Dosing Quick Reference

Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1— Dosing Guide
Dose Range
100-500 ppm topical
Half-Life
~6-8 hours (topical, estimated)
Frequency
1-2× daily (topical)
Route
Oral
Cosmetic Peptidecalcmypeptide.com

Frequently Asked Questions

Is palmitoyl tripeptide-1 the same as Matrixyl?▼
Matrixyl (original) was palmitoyl pentapeptide-3/4 (pal-KTTKS). Matrixyl 3000 combines palmitoyl tripeptide-1 (pal-GHK) with palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7 for synergistic collagen stimulation. Both target fibroblast collagen production.
Does palmitoyl tripeptide-1 work topically?▼
Yes — the palmitoyl fatty acid modification enables skin penetration to the dermis. Multiple double-blind trials show measurable wrinkle depth reduction and improved skin firmness with regular twice-daily use.

References

  1. Gorouhi F, Maibach HI “"Topical peptides as cosmeceuticals".” Journal of Investigative Dermatology (2009). PMID: 19177133

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