Hydration / Barrier

Palmitoyl Peptides (Matrixyl-type)

INCI: Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4 · CAS 214047-00-4

Palmitoyl peptides (such as palmitoyl pentapeptide-4, the Matrixyl type) are lipid-tailed signal peptides used in skincare to support firmness and the look of fine lines.

INCIPalmitoyl Pentapeptide-4
CAS214047-00-4
Also known asMatrixyl, signal peptides
Use levellow levels per supplier guidance (supplied pre-diluted)
Solubilitywater-soluble (as supplied)
pH / stabilitymildly acidic to neutral
RegulatoryListed in EU CosIng

What it does

  • Support collagen-related skin firmness.
  • Help soften the look of fine lines and improve texture over time.
  • Gentle and well tolerated.

How it works

Palmitoyl peptides pair a short signal peptide (for example the pentapeptide sequence in Matrixyl) with a palmitoyl fatty tail that improves skin affinity. They are widely documented as signal peptides that support collagen-related pathways. They are sold as dilute trade solutions, so the label use level refers to the pre-diluted material.

Use level

Typical use level
low levels per supplier guidance (supplied pre-diluted)

Used at the supplier-recommended level of the trade solution, which is already dilute; avoid quoting the raw peptide as a high percentage. Benefits build gradually with consistent use.

Formulation considerations

  • Water-soluble as supplied; add to the cool-down phase.
  • Formulate in mildly acidic to neutral systems.
  • Follow the specific supplier's recommended use level for the trade material.

What it pairs with & what to avoid

Pairs well with

  • Niacinamide
  • Hydrators and barrier actives
  • Copper peptides

Use with care / avoid

  • Assuming the trade-solution percentage equals pure-peptide percentage

Regulatory status

Palmitoyl peptides are listed in the EU CosIng database and are well-established peptide actives.

Common questions

What do palmitoyl peptides / Matrixyl do?

They are signal peptides that support collagen-related firmness and help soften the look of fine lines over time.

What percentage of Matrixyl should I use?

Follow the supplier's recommended level for the trade solution — the peptide is supplied pre-diluted, so a raw percentage would be misleading.

Are peptides gentle?

Yes; signal peptides are generally very well tolerated.

Related monographs

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