Palmitoyl tripeptide-1 (Pal-GHK) is a lipopeptide consisting of the tripeptide GHK (glycyl-histidyl-lysine) conjugated to a palmitic acid chain. GHK is a naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide found in human plasma, and its palmitoylated form is used in cosmetic formulations to stimulate collagen synthesis and extracellular matrix production. It is one of the two peptides in the Matrixyl 3000 combination. The evidence base consists primarily of in vitro studies and manufacturer data; independent clinical studies are limited.
Category: Cosmetic Peptide. Evidence rating: F (anecdotal/unsupported).
Clinical status: Cosmetic ingredient. Very limited independent clinical data.
The GHK tripeptide sequence is a fragment of type I collagen and SPARC (secreted protein acidic and rich in cysteine). It acts as a signaling peptide that stimulates fibroblast production of collagen I, collagen III, fibronectin, and glycosaminoglycans. The palmitoyl chain enhances skin…
Safety considerations: Generally well tolerated; No significant adverse effects reported in cosmetic use; Low irritation potential.
Reviewed by the PeptideAtlas Editorial Team. Last reviewed: 2026-07-06.
Related peptides: Matrixyl, Matrixyl 3000, Snap-8.
Compare: Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 vs Matrixyl, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 vs Matrixyl 3000, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 vs Snap-8.
No. Both contain the GHK tripeptide sequence, but palmitoyl tripeptide-1 has a palmitic acid chain attached for skin penetration (cosmetic use), while GHK-Cu has a copper ion complexed for copper delivery (wound healing and skincare). They have overlapping but distinct mechanisms.
Palmitoyl tripeptide-1 (Pal-GHK) is a lipopeptide consisting of the tripeptide GHK (glycyl-histidyl-lysine) conjugated to a palmitic acid chain. GHK is a naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide found in human plasma, and its palmitoylated form is used in cosmetic formulations to stimulate collagen synthesis and extracellular matrix production. It is one of the two peptides in the Matrixyl…
On the PeptideAtlas A–F scale, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 is rated F (Safety Concern). Safety concerns, misleading claims, or no credible basis
Cosmetic ingredient. Very limited independent clinical data.
The GHK tripeptide sequence is a fragment of type I collagen and SPARC (secreted protein acidic and rich in cysteine). It acts as a signaling peptide that stimulates fibroblast production of collagen I, collagen III, fibronectin, and glycosaminoglycans. The palmitoyl chain enhances skin penetration through the lipid matrix of the stratum corneum. Unlike GHK-Cu (copper tripeptide-1), the…