Matrixyl (Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4)
One of the most studied anti-aging peptides. Matrixyl is a signal peptide that mimics collagen fragments (matrikines), tricking fibroblasts into thinking collagen has been broken down and needs to be replaced. This stimulates new collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid production. Clinical studies show visible wrinkle reduction comparable to retinol but without any irritation.
Concentration & Usage
Typically used at 2-8% in formulations. Applied morning and/or night. Compatible with virtually all other active ingredients. Often found combined with Matrixyl 3000 (palmitoyl tripeptide-1 + palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7) for enhanced effects.
Application
Topical (serum, cream). Water-soluble base. Apply to clean skin. Compatible with acids, retinoids, and vitamin C.
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Mechanism of Action
Matrixyl (palmitoyl pentapeptide-4, Pal-KTTKS) is a matrikine—a bioactive collagen fragment mimicking Lys-Thr-Thr-Lys-Ser from the alpha-1 chain of collagen I. This sequence binds integrin receptors on dermal fibroblasts, triggering TGF-beta/Smad and MAPK/ERK signaling that upregulates ECM synthesis genes. Fibroblasts increase production of collagen I, III, IV, fibronectin, elastin, and glycosaminoglycans including hyaluronic acid—recreating the wound-healing signal without tissue damage. The C16 palmitoyl chain enhances lipophilicity and stratum corneum penetration via intercellular lipid partitioning. Unlike retinoids, Matrixyl does not accelerate epidermal turnover, explaining its lack of irritation. Clinical studies show wrinkle reduction comparable to retinol.
Regulatory Status
Cosmetic ingredient. Available OTC worldwide. Patented by Sederma.
Risks & Safety
Common
Essentially none — peptides are extremely well-tolerated.
Serious
None documented. Safe in pregnancy.
Rare
Minimal risk of allergic reaction.
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Research Papers
2Published: August 30, 2022
AI Summary
Noteworthy, their antibacterial activity is preserved in simulated wound fluid, which anticipates an effective action in the setting of a real wound bed. These findings provide solid grounds for us to advance IL-KTTKS conjugates as promising leads for future development of topical treatments for complicated skin and soft tissue infections (cSSTI).
Published: August 18, 2025
AI Summary
These effects were stronger than the individual treatments, suggesting synergistic effects, especially with GEKG. These findings highlight the clinical potential of combining autologous platelet concentrates with bioactive peptides for dermal regeneration.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Matrixyl (Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4) used for?
One of the most studied anti-aging peptides. Matrixyl is a signal peptide that mimics collagen fragments (matrikines), tricking fibroblasts into thinking collagen has been broken down and needs to be replaced. This stimulates new collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid production. Clinical studies show visible wrinkle reduction comparable to retinol but without any irritation.
What are the side effects of Matrixyl (Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4)?
Common: Essentially none — peptides are extremely well-tolerated. Serious: None documented. Safe in pregnancy. Rare: Minimal risk of allergic reaction.
How is Matrixyl (Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4) administered?
Matrixyl (Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4) is administered via topical (serum, cream). water-soluble base. apply to clean skin. compatible with acids, retinoids, and vitamin c..
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