Palmitoyl Tripeptide-38

anti-wrinkle + laxity · hydrating
by cipher skincare published: feb 2, 2020 revised: feb 17, 2026 2 min read
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why we use palmitoyl tripeptide-38

The Basics

Palmitoyl tripeptide-38, commercially known as Matrixyl Synthe'6, is a synthetic peptide designed to mimic matrikines—peptides that regulate cell activity during tissue repair and remodeling. By emulating these natural signaling molecules, palmitoyl tripeptide-38 effectively stimulates skin cells to enhance the production of key components of the extracellular matrix.

This peptide specifically targets six major constituents of the skin matrix and the dermal-epidermal junction:

① Collagen I

The primary structural protein in the dermis, providing tensile strength to the skin.

② Collagen III

Often referred to as "fetal collagen," it is abundant during the early stages of wound healing and contributes to skin elasticity.

③ Collagen IV

Located at the dermal-epidermal junction, it plays a crucial role in anchoring the epidermis to the dermis and supports overall skin structure.

④ Fibronectin

A glycoprotein that facilitates cell adhesion and migration, essential processes in tissue repair and maintaining skin integrity.

⑤ Hyaluronic acid

A glycosaminoglycan known for its exceptional ability to retain moisture, contributing to skin hydration and plumpness.

⑥ Laminin-5

A component of the basement membrane that influences cell differentiation, adhesion, and migration, playing a pivotal role in skin healing and stability.By promoting the synthesis of these critical components, palmitoyl tripeptide-38 aids in plumping fine lines and enhancing skin repair mechanisms.

Clinical Efficacy

Clinical studies have demonstrated the efficacy of palmitoyl tripeptide-38 in improving skin appearance. In one study, participants applying a serum containing this peptide experienced a significant reduction in skin roughness parameters by 8%–9%. Moreover, increased skin isotropy was evident, indicating smoother and more uniform skin texture. Additionally, photographic analysis revealed a 9% decrease in redness and an 8% increase in skin tone homogeneity, aligning with participants' perceptions of enhanced radiance and reduced wrinkles.1 First visible wrinkle smoothing results were achieved in as little as one week.2

references

  1. 1 Lintner, K., Gerstein, F., & Solish, N. (2020). A serum containing vitamins C & E and a matrix-repair tripeptide reduces facial signs of aging as evidenced by Primos® analysis and frequently repeated auto-perception. Journal of cosmetic dermatology, 19(12), 3262–3269. doi: 10.1111/jocd.13770 A serum containing vitamins C & E and a matrix-repair tripeptide reduces facial signs of aging as evidenced by Primos® analysis and frequently repeated auto-perception.
  2. 2 Schagen, S. (2017). Topical Peptide Treatments with Effective Anti-Aging Results. Cosmetics, 4(2), 16. doi: 10.3390/cosmetics4020016 Topical Peptide Treatments with Effective Anti-Aging Results.

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