Matrixyl
Also known as: Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4, Pal-KTTKS
Molecular Identifiers
Overview
Lipophilic pentapeptide (palmitoyl-KTTKS) that stimulates the synthesis of collagen types I, III, and IV, fibronectin, and hyaluronic acid in the dermis. Procollagen fragment with a palmitoyl group for skin penetration.
The main cosmetic interest around Matrixyl lies in its effect on the dermal extracellular matrix: the KTTKS sequence is a matrikine derived from type I procollagen that, when applied topically, signals fibroblasts to increase synthesis of collagen I, III, and IV, fibronectin, and hyaluronic acid. Clinical studies describe wrinkle reduction and improved firmness after 2 to 4 months of topical use, with a favorable tolerability profile.
Matrixyl is classified as a cosmetic ingredient (not a drug) and is widely incorporated into anti-aging serums and creams sold over the counter at pharmacies and beauty retailers. Typical concentration in finished formulations is 100 to 300 ppm. It is not subject to FDA drug restrictions, but its use remains restricted to the cosmetic domain. The palmitoyl group attached to the N-terminus increases lipophilicity and enables dermal penetration.
Among cosmetic peptides, Matrixyl occupies a distinct space from Argireline, SNAP-8, and Acetyl Octapeptide-1: while those SNARE-family analogues aim to relax facial muscles, Matrixyl works on fibroblasts and the extracellular matrix, with no neuromuscular action. It is mechanistically close to Tripeptide-29, also collagen-oriented, and complementary to Decapeptide-12 (depigmentation) — multi-peptide blends often pair Matrixyl with Argireline to combine firmness with attenuation of dynamic lines.
KTTKS Lys-Thr-Thr-Lys-Ser Half-life
Variable (topical use)
Administration Route
Topical
Category
Cosmetic & Skin
Mechanism of Action
- Stimulation of collagen I, III, and IV synthesis
- Increased fibronectin production
- Promotion of hyaluronic acid synthesis
- Signaling via the KTTKS matrikine sequence
- Palmitoyl group facilitates dermal penetration
Dosage Protocol
Data compiled from the literature. This does not constitute medical advice.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Dose | Topical application |
| Frequency | 1-2 times daily |
| Timing | Morning and/or evening after cleansing |
| Duration | Continuous use |
Reported Side Effects
Adverse effects described in the literature. Severity and frequency vary between individuals.
- Mild skin irritation (rare)
- Transient redness
Product Properties
| Purity | >98% |
| Appearance | White to off-white lyophilized powder or clear solution |
| Solubility | Soluble in water. For optimal solubility, DMSO or propylene glycol may be used as co-solvent due to the palmitoyl lipid chain. |
| Source | Solid-phase peptide synthesis (SPPS) with N-terminal palmitoylation |
| Storage | Lyophilized: -20°C for up to 2 years, 2-8°C for up to 6 months. Solution: 2-8°C for up to 6 months. Protect from light and moisture. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles. |
Presentations & Preparation
Vials of Matrixyl found in the research market:
Reconstitution
- Diluent: N/A (topical use)
- Volume: N/A
- Supplied as solution or incorporated in cosmetic formulations
- Typical concentration 100-300 ppm
Storage
- Lyophilized: Room temperature
- Reconstituted: N/A
- Protect from direct light
- Keep container tightly closed
Scientific Studies
Published studies on Matrixyl.
Topical palmitoyl pentapeptide provides improvement in photoaged human facial skin
Robinson LR, Fitzgerald NC, Doughty DG, Dawes NC, Berge CA, Bissett DL
A pentapeptide from type I procollagen promotes extracellular matrix production
Katayama K, Armendariz-Borunda J, Raghow R, Kang AH, Seyer JM
Related Peptides
Acetyl Octapeptide-1
Topical 3-5% · Twice daily
AHK-Cu
Topical or 200-500 mcg subcutaneous · 1-2 times daily (topical), every other day (subcutaneous)
Argireline
Topical 5-10% or 100-250 mcg subcutaneous · Topical twice daily, subcutaneous 2-3x per week
Decapeptide-12
Topical application · 1-2 times daily
GHK Basic
Topical or 200-600 mcg subcutaneous · 1-2 times daily (topical), every other day (subcutaneous)
Melanotan I
0.5-1 mg per injection · Every other day (loading phase), weekly (maintenance)