Palmitoyl tripeptide, also known as Pal-GHK, is a man-made peptide that is intended to improve skin health, decrease pigmentation, and enhance collagen formation. It consists of a peptide consisting of three amino acids (GHK: glycine, histidine & lysine) and a fatty acid molecule (palmitoyl). It has been found to activate fibroblasts, which are responsible for producing vital proteins in the connective tissues, and skin, bones of the extracellular matrix.

Since 1973, the cosmetics industry has been using Palmitoyl tripeptide, a promising peptide. Research has shown that it enhances the synthesis of collagen and promotes the synthesis of blood vessels. Scientific research is still being conducted to fully comprehend its potential [1]. At Pinnacle Peptides, Pal-GHK for sale is exclusively available for research and experimentation.

From Pubchem

IUPAC Name: N-palmitoyl-glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine
Synonyms: Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Oligopeptide, Pal-Gly-His-Lys-OH
Molecular Formula: C30H54N6O5
Molecular Weight: 578.8 g/mol
Sequence: GHK
CAS number: 147732-56-7
PubChem CID: 10231864

Pal-GHK's palmitoyl fatty acid component functions as a carrier, acting as a vehicle for the peptide. This binding of a fatty acid to a peptide sequence enhances its penetration in the skin cells. Essentially, Palmitoyl's role is to facilitate the effective delivery of amino acid tripeptide to the interior of cells deep within the skin, optimizing its utility.

Palmitoyl tripeptide's precise mechanism of action is uncertain. Nevertheless, research shows that it works by inducing the release of two important skin proteins: collagen and decorin [2]. Decorin plays an important role in the regulation of collagen fiber organization and function within the extracellular matrix. Collagen is an important part of the extracellular matrix that provides structural support and keeps the elasticity of the skin.

1. Wound Healing

Animal studies supported the fact that PAL-GHK has skin healing and regenerating characteristics. An animal trial was conducted on rabbits to study the potential benefits of PAL-GHK. During the trial, the rabbits' skin was intentionally wounded using a laser. Thereafter, PAL-GHK, along with some other drugs, was applied to the wound site on a daily basis for several weeks. The results revealed that PAL-GHK notably accelerated the healing of the wounds as compared to the placebo [3].

2. Aging

In animal trials, Pal-GHK has been reported to protect the skin from different aging-related effects. Pal-GHK exhibits the capability to increase the production of essential proteins like collagen and elastin, important for maintaining skin elasticity and structure. Pal-GHK peptide fragment deceives fibroblasts into assuming that elastin has been damaged. Fibroblasts multiply and develop in response to this deceiving signal, to make up for the loss of elastin in the skin.

The activity of fibroblasts decreases with increasing age. Animal studies suggested that the peptide part of Pal-GHK possesses the ability to regenerate fibroblasts, offering a potential way to counteract some of the common skin-related effects related to the aging process [4].

3. Wrinkles

Pal-GHK has been shown to be effective in hydrating the lips and restoring lips fullness in animal studies [5]. When used in combination with some other short peptides, Pal-GHK produces a synergistic effect, significantly decreasing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Furthermore, research in animal studies suggests that Pal-GHK plays a role in reducing redness and improving skin discoloration caused by sun damage, suggesting its potential to manage different aging-related skin concerns [6].

4. Skin Irritation

An animal study was conducted to assess the effect of Pal-GHK on skin irritation. BIOPEPTIDE CL, which contains 100 ppm of pal-GHK, was studied for skin irritation using three male New Zealand White rabbits [7]. The testing material was applied to both scarified and non-scarified skin on the flank (0.5 ml on a 6 cm2 area, with hair clipped) under an occlusive hypoallergenic dressing for 24 hours. Reactions were assessed at 24 and 72 hours after application. Only a little redness was observed at the 24-hour mark, and no other reactions were listed. BIOPEPTIDE CL was found to be non-irritating, with a PII (Primary Irritation Index) value of 0.3.

Pal-GHK is a man-made peptide known for its skin-benefiting roles. Pal-GHK has the potential to increase the production of collagen and elastin. It has also been found to exhibit the ability to improve skin and cell penetration. It stimulates the growth and multiplication of fibroblasts, making it an important subject for the cosmetics industry. However, further research is needed to authenticate its effects. We don’t support its unwarranted use and offer Pal-GHK purchase solely for research. Only buy Pal-GHK if you are a qualified researcher.

1. Gorouhi, F. and H. Maibach, Role of topical peptides in preventing or treating aged skin. International journal of cosmetic science, 2009. 31(5): p. 327-345.
2. Siméon, A., et al., Expression of glycosaminoglycans and small proteoglycans in wounds: modulation by the tripeptide–copper complex glycyl-l-histidyl-l-lysine-Cu2+. Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2000. 115(6): p. 962-968.
3. Gul, N.Y., et al., The effects of topical tripeptide copper complex and helium‐neon laser on wound healing in rabbits. Veterinary Dermatology, 2008. 19(1): p. 7-14.
4. Pickart, L., J.M. Vasquez-Soltero, and A. Margolina, GHK-Cu may prevent oxidative stress in skin by regulating copper and modifying expression of numerous antioxidant genes. Cosmetics, 2015. 2(3): p. 236-247.
5. Trookman, N.S., et al., Clinical assessment of a combination lip treatment to restore moisturization and fullness. The Journal of clinical and aesthetic dermatology, 2009. 2(12): p. 44.
6. Bradley, E.J., et al., Over-the-counter anti-ageing topical agents and their ability to protect and repair photoaged skin. Maturitas, 2015. 80(3): p. 265-272.
7. Safety Assessment of Tripeptide-1, Hexapeptide-12, their Metal Salts and Fatty Acyl Derivatives, and Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 as Used in Cosmetics. 2014; Available from: