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Peptides (Matrixyl)

INCI: Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4
Also known as: Matrixyl, Pal-KTTKS
PeptidespeptidesyntheticModerate evidencePregnancy safe
85
Skinlumis Rating
Comedogenic
0/5
Irritancy
0/5
Best applied
Both
Effective range
3%–10%
How It Works

A signal peptide that mimics a fragment of pro-collagen I, telling fibroblasts to up-regulate matrix synthesis. The most studied cosmetic peptide.

Binds receptors on dermal fibroblasts and signals for new collagen, elastin, and glycosaminoglycan production via TGF-β pathway.

pH Range
5.0–7.0
Benefits
  • Boosts collagen
  • Smooths wrinkles
  • Improves firmness
  • Restores dermal density
  • Well-tolerated
Proven For

What the evidence supports.

Fine linesLoss of elasticityPhotoaging
Best For
  • All skin types
  • Mature
Avoid If

No notable contraindications reported.

Layering Order
5/10

Mid-routine serum or treatment step.

Max Safe Concentration
10%

Concentration range in well-formulated products: 3%–10%

Seasonal Use

Year-round.

Nutrition Connection

Dietary protein supports endogenous collagen synthesis.

Skin Signals When You Need It
  • Loss of firmness
  • Crepiness
For Estheticians & Professionals

Layer over (not under) low-pH actives. Pairs powerfully with retinol for collagen stacking.

Notable Research
  • Robinson et al. 2005, 3% Matrixyl improved wrinkle depth in 12 weeks
Clinical Evidence

The research behind Peptides (Matrixyl).

4 peer-reviewed studies

Every claim on this page traces to published research. Findings below are drawn from randomized trials and systematic reviews, each links to the study on PubMed.

Systematic Review
Oral collagen peptides at 2.5-10g daily significantly improved skin elasticity and reduced wrinkle depth after 8-12 weeks across 11 RCTs.
Choi FD, Sung CT, Juhasz MLW, Mesinkovska NA
Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2019
View Study →
Systematic Review
Estrogen deficiency following menopause causes 30% reduction in skin collagen within the first 5 years.
Wilkinson HN, Hardman MJ
Maturitas, 2017
View Study →
Systematic Review
Chronic psychological stress elevates cortisol, accelerating skin aging through collagen degradation and barrier disruption.
Chen Y, Lyga J
Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets, 2014
View Study →
Randomized Controlled Trial
Daily sunscreen use reduced photoaging markers by 24% over 4.5 years compared to discretionary use.
Hughes MCB, Williams GM, Baker P, Green AC
Annals of Internal Medicine, 2013
View Study →
Pairs Well With
NiacinamideHyaluronic AcidRetinolBakuchiol
Conflicts With
Direct acids (pH < 4)
Your Skin Compatibility

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