PAL-AHK (Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1)
A copper peptide derivative designed for topical use to stimulate collagen production, improve skin elasticity, and support hair growth.
Common Dosage
Topical application (serums/creams with 1-5% concentration)
Category
Skin & Hair
- Collagen stimulation
- Skin firming
- Hair follicle support
- Anti-wrinkle
PAL-AHK (palmitoyl-Ala-His-Lys, also known as palmitoyl tripeptide-1 or palmitoyl oligopeptide) is a signal peptide developed for cosmetic use that combines a palmitoyl fatty acid chain with the tripeptide Ala-His-Lys — a fragment of type I collagen pro-peptide. The palmitoyl chain enhances skin penetration by making the otherwise hydrophilic peptide more lipophilic. The AHK sequence is also a copper chelating motif, giving it copper-delivery properties similar to GHK-Cu. It was developed and validated by Sederma in France as part of the Matrixyl peptide line.
PAL-AHK acts as a matrikine — a fragment of extracellular matrix proteins that signals fibroblasts to increase collagen synthesis as if matrix damage had occurred. The AHK sequence also chelates copper and delivers it to copper-requiring enzymes (lysyl oxidase) involved in collagen and elastin cross-linking. The combination of direct fibroblast signaling and copper delivery creates a synergistic collagen production effect.
- Age-related skin laxity and wrinkle treatment
- Collagen I and III synthesis stimulation
- Hair follicle support and growth
- Anti-aging skincare formulation
- Synergistic combination with GHK-Cu for skin rejuvenation
Clinical Skin Studies
Studies using PAL-AHK-containing formulations have shown statistically significant improvements in skin elasticity, wrinkle depth, and dermal density at 8–12 weeks compared to vehicle control — comparable to Matrixyl 3000 (palmitoyl tripeptide-1 + palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7) in some evaluations.
- Efficacy is highly dependent on concentration — most commercial products use sub-clinical concentrations
- Topical peptide penetration is inherently limited — the palmitoyl chain helps but full dermal delivery is not guaranteed
- Mild skin irritation is possible in sensitive individuals
- Copper accumulation from regular use deserves consideration alongside GHK-Cu, as copper overload has systemic consequences
- Mild skin irritation (rare)