Palmitoyl Tripeptide‑1 Raw Material Introduction
Palmitoyl Tripeptide‑1(CAS:147732-56-7) is a short peptide composed of three amino acids: Glycine (Gly), Histidine (His) and Lysine (Lys). Its N-terminus is modified with palmitic acid. The core peptide fragment is a naturally occurring collagen degradation fragment in the human body, featuring excellent biocompatibility with low sensitization and irritation risks. Compared with the water-soluble native GHK tripeptide, the hydrophobic palmitoyl chain modification endows the raw material with amphipathic properties. First reported for its collagen-stimulating activity in the 1990s, Palmitoyl Tripeptide‑1 has become a core ingredient in many premium anti-ageing products and is frequently formulated with Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide‑7.
Basic Physicochemical Information
Property | Parameter |
|---|---|
INCI Name | Palmitoyl Tripeptide‑1 |
Common Names | Pal-GHK, Palmitoyl-Gly-His-Lys |
Amino Acid Sequence | Gly-His-Lys (GHK) |
Molecular Formula | C₃₀H₅₄N₆O₅ |
Molecular Weight | 578.8 g/mol |
Appearance | White to off-white powder |
Solubility | Slightly soluble in water; freely soluble in ethanol and propylene glycol |
Purity | ≥98% (HPLC) |
Recommended Dosage | 0.005%–0.05% (cosmetic grade) |
Palmitoyl Tripeptide‑1 features favourable physicochemical stability. It tolerates weak acid environments and ambient storage. It resists oxidation, discoloration and degradation in conventional skincare formulation systems with minimal risks of precipitation or deactivation. Compatible with most skincare manufacturing processes, it is one of the most formulation-friendly cosmetic peptides available today.
Core Mechanism of Action of Palmitoyl Tripeptide‑1
Activation of collagen synthesis signalling pathways It specifically binds to receptors on the plasma membrane of dermal fibroblasts and triggers the TGF‑β1 signalling cascade, markedly upregulating the expression of COL1A1 and COL3A1 genes. It effectively promotes the biosynthesis of type I structural collagen, type III elastic collagen, fibronectin and glycosaminoglycans, increasing the density of the dermal extracellular matrix and reinforcing skin support and elasticity.
Inhibition of excessive collagen degradation It significantly downregulates the activity of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), blocking UV- and free radical-induced over-breakdown of collagen and elastic fibres. It establishes a dual regulatory mechanism that boosts neosynthesis while reducing loss, delaying intrinsic skin ageing and photoageing.
Repair of micro-damage and photoageing in skin It effectively scavenges skin free radicals, suppresses chronic cutaneous micro-inflammation, mitigates oxidative stress induced by ultraviolet radiation, repairs damaged fibroblasts, and improves sun-induced dullness and rough skin texture.
Comparison between Palmitoyl Tripeptide‑1 and Copper Peptide
Dimension | Palmitoyl Tripeptide‑1 (Pal-GHK) | Copper Tripeptide‑1 (GHK-Cu) |
|---|---|---|
Active Form | GHK tripeptide modified with palmitic acid | GHK tripeptide chelated with Cu²⁺ |
Core Positioning | Classic signalling peptide focused on collagen synthesis | Multi-functional regenerative peptide with dual anti-ageing and repairing functions |
Colour | White powder | Blue |
Stability | High stability and broad formulation compatibility | Lower stability; sensitive to pH, chelating agents and reducing agents |
Irritation | Low | Moderate (copper ions may cause irritation) |
Regulatory Status | Cosmetic raw material | Cosmetic raw material (restrictions apply in some markets) |
Formulation Application Guidelines for Palmitoyl Tripeptide‑1
Palmitoyl Tripeptide‑1 is fully listed in China’s Inventory of Existing Cosmetic Raw Materials (2025 Edition) with index No. 08747. It is not included in any prohibited or restricted lists and can be filed normally without special approval.
Recommended Dosage
Routine anti-ageing formulations: 50–100 ppm (0.005%–0.01%). As a core signalling component in peptide matrices, it supports basal collagen synthesis for gentle early anti-ageing effects.
High-performance anti-ageing formulations: 100–500 ppm (0.01%–0.05%). Combined with other active ingredients to build a comprehensive anti-ageing system, suitable for premium anti-ageing serums and salon-grade skincare products.
Classic Matrixyl 3000 system adopted by major brands including L’Oréal: 1:1 blend of Palmitoyl Tripeptide‑1 and Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide‑7 at a total concentration of 50–100 ppm to achieve synergistic effects of collagen stimulation and inflammation control.
Formulation Process Notes Addition Procedure
Pre-disperse and dissolve in glycerin / propylene glycol prior to addition into the aqueous phase.
Add during the cooling stage (≤45°C). Prolonged heating above 60°C is not recommended, as high temperature accelerates peptide bond hydrolysis and reduces activity.
Recommended pH range: 5.0–7.0, optimum at approximately pH 6.0.
Compatible Systems & Recommended Combinations
✅ Recommended combinations for synergistic benefits
Other signalling peptides: Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide‑7, Palmitoyl Pentapeptide‑4 → multi-target collagen stimulation, classic Matrixyl system.
Moisturizers: Sodium hyaluronate, panthenol, glycerin → enhance dermal hydration and amplify firming effects.
Antioxidants: Vitamin C derivatives, ergothioneine, carnosine → reduce oxidative collagen damage.
Retinol / retinyl esters: Palmitoyl Tripeptide‑1 can mitigate retinol irritation while synergistically reducing wrinkles via extracellular matrix modulation (retinol irritation risk must be controlled).
⚠️ Combinations requiring caution
High-concentration strong oxidants such as high-dose hydrogen peroxide, which may oxidize peptide segments and damage peptide structure.
Extreme pH conditions that accelerate peptide hydrolysis; separate pre-dissolution is recommended and avoid excessively low final product pH.
High concentrations of heavy metal ions, which may cause chelation or catalytic degradation and should be avoided where possible.
Applicable Formulations
✅ Anti-ageing serums (aqueous serums, lightweight serum emulsions)
✅ O/W / W/O anti-wrinkle creams and lotions
✅ Anti-ageing ampoules, lyophilized powder formulations (powder-grade Palmitoyl Tripeptide‑1 can be incorporated)
✅ Periocular anti-wrinkle products (for static fine lines around eyes)
✅ Anti-ageing masks (serum-type / cream masks)
Raw Material Storage & Batch Stability
Store raw materials in a sealed, light-proof, dry environment under refrigeration. Stable at ambient temperature when hermetically sealed. Long-term storage at 2–8°C is recommended to guarantee consistent batch activity and prevent discoloration or potency loss.
Frequently Asked Questions for R&D
Q: Does Palmitoyl Tripeptide‑1 require preservatives?
A: Yes. Both stock solutions and finished products require preservative systems. Aqueous peptide solutions serve as nutrients for microorganisms and are prone to microbial growth.
Q: Can it be formulated together with copper peptide?
A: Synergistic anti-ageing effects are achievable. However, formulation parameters must accommodate copper peptide requirements: minimize chelating agents and maintain neutral pH to protect GHK-Cu.
Q: Why does the stock solution require high addition weight while the active peptide content remains low in ppm?
A: Most commercial raw materials are diluted stock solutions with carriers. The active peptide accounts for only a small fraction. Efficacy depends on the active peptide concentration, not the addition weight of the stock solution.
Summary
As a well-validated high-activity matrix signalling peptide backed by extensive scientific research and clinical studies, Palmitoyl Tripeptide‑1 stands out for its high penetration, superior stability, low irritation and potent anti-ageing performance, making it a staple raw material for anti-ageing skincare.
As a cosmetic peptide manufacturer, our company supplies high-purity cosmetic-grade Palmitoyl Tripeptide‑1 with high purity, stable activity, low impurity levels and minimal batch variation, fully complying with industrial formulation standards. We maintain a mature mass production system and provide sample testing, bulk supply, complete COA and MSDS documents. We offer professional support for skincare R&D, formulation adjustment and large-scale manufacturing.
Check the product link：Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1
References
[1] Pickart L. GHK Peptide as a Natural Modulator of Multiple Cellular Pathways in Skin Regeneration[J]. BioMed Research International, 2012. https://www.hindawi.com/journals/bmri/2012/973426/
[2] Errante F, et al. Cosmeceutical Peptides in the Framework of Sustainable Wellness Economy[J]. Cosmetics, 2020,7(4):87. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7662462/
[3] Badenhorst T, et al. Comparison of the cytotoxicity and wound-healing potential of GHK-Cu and Pal-GHK[J]. International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2014. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/ics.12147
[4] Maquart F X, Bellon G, Gillery P. Matrikines in the regulation of extracellular matrix degradation[J]. Biochimie,2005,87(3-4):353-360. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0300908405000297