Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1
Pal-GHK
No meaningful concern for most people; irritation is possible but rare.
Also written as: Palmitoyl Oligopeptide · Pal-GHK · Matrixyl (component)
What it is
Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 is the three-amino-acid sequence glycine-histidine-lysine with a palmitic acid tail attached, which makes it more compatible with skin lipids and helps it get past the surface. It is a messenger-type peptide: the intention is to signal skin cells to make more collagen and other matrix proteins. It is rarely used alone and most often appears in commercial blends alongside Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7.
What it does well
May support collagen signalling
The mechanism is plausible and supported by laboratory work on the GHK sequence, but there is little independent, peptide-specific clinical evidence at cosmetic concentrations. Most published human data test multi-ingredient products, so the peptide's own contribution cannot be separated out.
Limited evidence
Worth knowing
Evidence is thin and usually from combination products
Studies almost always test a finished formula containing several actives, which makes it impossible to attribute results to this peptide. It is very well tolerated, so the issue is value rather than safety.
Matters most toAnyone paying extra for a peptide claim.
Where the EU stands
No specific restriction
Not listed in Annex II, III or V of the EU Cosmetics Regulation; no concentration limit applies.
