Also known as: Matrixyl synthe'6
Palmitoyl tripeptide-38 (Pal-KMK, trade name Matrixyl synthe'6) is a synthetic lipid-linked tripeptide based on a sequence found in collagen VI and laminin, used as a cosmetic ingredient. Published human data come only from multi-ingredient products.
The KMK sequence occurs in collagen VI and laminins. Supplier data summarized in a review describe increased production of collagens I, III and IV, laminin, fibronectin and hyaluronic acid in cell culture [1]. No independent peer-reviewed cell study confirming this was located, so the mechanism should be treated as proposed.
| Study | Model | Reported result | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Laser-assisted delivery study [2] | Other animal Pig skin (Franz cell), FITC-labeled peptide | Skin deposition rose from 2.4 nmol/g untreated to 56.0 (picosecond Nd:YAG) and 180.0 nmol/g (fractional CO₂). | Peer-reviewed Pharmaceutics 2022 |
| Active-complex cream study [3] | Human 30 women, randomized, single-blind, vehicle-controlled, 12 weeks; peptide plus three botanical/HA actives | Endpoints: appearance of crow's-feet lines (imaging), elasticity, hydration, water loss, tolerability. Published. | Peer-reviewed Aesthetic Medicine 2023 |
| Multi-ingredient moisturizer study [4] | Human 37 women, open-label, 12 weeks; peptide blend plus four other actives | Endpoints: appearance of fine lines, clarity, roughness, tone evenness, tolerability. Published. | Peer-reviewed J Drugs Dermatol 2015 |
| Facial serum study [5] | Human 32 women, 28 days; serum also containing apple stem cell extract, creatine and urea | Endpoints: dermal density, elasticity, appearance of wrinkles. Peptide's own contribution not separable. Published. | Peer-reviewed J Cosmet Dermatol 2016 |
| Trending peptides review [1] | Review Narrative review | Describes mechanism solely from supplier datasheet; no peer-reviewed lab study cited. | Peer-reviewed Cosmetics 2020 |
Human cosmetic studies describe appearance only. Lab results do not establish effects on skin structure.
