Pal-GHK

Pal-GHK (Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1) is a synthetic peptide that combines the classic GHK tripeptide (Glycine-Histidine-Lysine) — a copper-binding peptide naturally present in plasma and identified for its tissue-remodeling activity — with a palmitic acid chain. The palmitoyl modification dramatically increases the molecule's lipophilicity and allows it to penetrate the stratum corneum at concentrations sufficient to signal dermal fibroblasts, where the GHK portion stimulates collagen synthesis, glycosaminoglycan production, and tissue remodeling enzymes.

Pal-GHK is functionally similar to (and often confused with) GHK-Cu (the copper-bound form), but the two are distinct. GHK-Cu is the copper complex used in injectable and high-end topical applications, while Pal-GHK is specifically designed for topical cosmetic incorporation where the copper isn't practical (it can stain formulations and may not penetrate well). In topical cosmetic literature, Pal-GHK and Pal-GQPR (Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7) are often combined as "Matrixyl 3000," a popular ingredient blend that pairs collagen-stimulating and anti-inflammatory peptides.

Pal-GHK is a topical cosmetic ingredient. Research-chemical vendors do sell pure peptide for formulators, but the peptide is not intended for injection and the safety of injecting Pal-GHK specifically (as opposed to GHK-Cu) has not been characterized.

GHK was first isolated from human plasma in 1973 by Loren Pickart, who would go on to publish extensively on the peptide's tissue-remodeling activity over the following five decades. The palmitoyl derivative (Pal-GHK) was developed in the late 1990s for cosmetic use, with Sederma (Croda International) being the principal commercial supplier. The "Matrixyl 3000" combination of Pal-GHK and Pal-GQPR was introduced by Sederma in the mid-2000s and has been one of the most widely adopted peptide cosmetic ingredient blends.