Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4 (Matrixyl®)

What is Pentapeptide-4?
Pentapeptide-4, also known as Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4 (formerly Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-3), is a synthetic peptide derived from pro-collagen I with the amino acid sequence lysine-threonine-threonine-lysine-serine (KTTKS). This peptide is a key component in the Matrixyl™ family of peptides, including Matrixyl™ 3000, Matrixyl™ synthe’6™, and Matrixyl® Morphomics™. It is designed to stimulate the production of dermal matrix components, including collagen and glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), which are essential for maintaining youthful skin.

How Pentapeptide-4 (Matrixyl®) Works

1. Collagen and ECM Stimulation:
   Pal-KTTKS (the palmitoyl derivative of KTTKS) stimulates collagen synthesis and the production of other extracellular matrix (ECM) components by fibroblasts, promoting skin firmness and elasticity.

2. Enhanced Delivery and Stability:
   The addition of a palmitoyl group makes the peptide more lipophilic, improving its stability and ability to penetrate the skin for maximum effectiveness.

3. Glycosaminoglycan (GAG) Regulation:
   It inhibits excess production of dermal GAGs, which can accumulate with aging and cause skin to lose its elasticity and firmness.

4. Epidermal Thickening:
   Pal-KTTKS induces epidermal thickening, reinforcing the skin barrier and improving its texture.

5. Anti-Inflammatory Properties:
   Unlike retinol, Matrixyl™ peptides provide anti-aging benefits without causing irritation, redness, or barrier damage, making them suitable for sensitive skin.

Key Benefits of Pentapeptide-4

• Reduces Wrinkles: Significantly diminishes the appearance of facial wrinkles, as confirmed by clinical studies.
• Improves Skin Firmness: Stimulates collagen production to enhance skin elasticity and structure.
• Minimizes Dark Spots and Circles: Users report small but noticeable improvements in age spots and dark circles.
• Enhances Skin Barrier Function: Induces epidermal thickening, improving skin resilience and texture.
• Gentle Yet Effective: Achieves results similar to retinol without the irritation or redness.

Synonyms and Variants

• Pal-KTTKS
• Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-3 (former designation)
• Matrixyl™ 3000
• Matrixyl™ synthe’6™
• Matrixyl® Morphomics™

Clinical Evidence

• In Vitro Studies: Demonstrated stimulation of collagen and dermal matrix components.
• In Vivo Studies: Chronic human tests confirmed a reduction in wrinkle appearance, improved skin firmness, and visible enhancement in age spots and skin texture.
• Subjective Feedback: Users reported significant improvements in wrinkles, firmness, and overall skin quality.

Applications

Pentapeptide-4 is widely used in:

• Anti-Aging Products: Creams and serums targeting wrinkles and fine lines.
• Skin-Firming Formulations: Enhancing elasticity and resilience.
• Brightening Treatments: Reducing dark circles and age spots.
• Gentle Skincare for Sensitive Skin: Offering retinol-like results without irritation.

Why Choose Pentapeptide-4 (Matrixyl™)?

Pentapeptide-4 is a well-researched, clinically proven ingredient for reducing wrinkles and improving skin texture and firmness. Its unique combination of effectiveness and gentleness makes it an ideal choice for advanced anti-aging skincare formulations.