Pal-GHK
Also known as: Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoil-GHK
Molecular Identifiers
Overview
Lipophilic form of the GHK tripeptide conjugated with palmitic acid for improved skin penetration. Stimulates collagen and elastin synthesis in the dermis, with repairing and anti-aging properties.
The main interest in Pal-GHK (Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1) is topical cosmetic: stimulating dermal collagen and elastin synthesis, promoting extracellular matrix remodeling, and acting as an anti-aging agent. Conjugation with palmitic acid creates a lipophilic tail that improves skin penetration relative to unmodified GHK, enabling its use in conventional cosmetic formulations.
Unlike injectable peptides, Pal-GHK is a widely regulated cosmetic ingredient listed in INCI, present in commercial anti-aging formulations at typical concentrations of 50-200 ppm, frequently combined with Matrixyl. It is not a systemic-use peptide — its application is exclusively topical, with a well-established safety profile in cosmetology.
Within the GHK family, Pal-GHK stands out for prioritizing skin penetration via its palmitoyl tail, in exchange for the absence of the chelated copper ion found in GHK-Cu — the gold standard for dermal regenerative signaling. Compared to base GHK, it offers greater stability and absorption in conventional topical formulations; AHK-Cu, an alanine-and-copper analogue, targets hair stimulation — a distinct indication from Pal-GHK's dermal remodeling.
GHK Gly-His-Lys Half-life
Variable (topical use)
Administration Route
Topical
Category
Cosmetic & Skin
Mechanism of Action
- Stimulation of collagen synthesis via GHK signaling
- Palmitoyl group facilitates dermal penetration
- Promotion of extracellular matrix remodeling
- Antioxidant activity
- Regulation of genes associated with tissue repair
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 |
| Duration | Continuous use |
Reported Side Effects
Adverse effects described in the literature. Severity and frequency vary between individuals.
- Mild skin irritation (rare)
Product Properties
| Purity | >98% |
| Appearance | White lyophilized powder |
| Solubility | Soluble in water; for higher concentrations, add 10% DMSO |
| Source | Solid-phase peptide synthesis (SPPS) |
| Storage | Lyophilized: -20°C for up to 2 years, 2-8°C for up to 6 months. Reconstituted: 2-8°C for up to 4 weeks. Protect from light and moisture. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles. |
Presentations & Preparation
Vials of Pal-GHK found in the research market:
Reconstitution
- Diluent: N/A (topical use)
- Volume: N/A
- Supplied as powder or solution
- Typical concentration 50-200 ppm in formulations
Storage
- Lyophilized: Room temperature
- Reconstituted: N/A
- Protect from light
- Keep in a dry place
Scientific Studies
Published studies on Pal-GHK.
Regenerative and protective actions of the GHK-Cu peptide in the light of the new gene data
Pickart L, Margolina A
A synthetic tripeptide which increases survival of normal liver cells, and stimulates growth in hepatoma cells
Pickart L, Thayer L, Thaler MM
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)
Matrixyl
Topical application · 1-2 times daily