Pal-GHK, also called Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, is a synthetic peptide, a collagen fragment presenting the sequence N-(1-oxohexadecyl)glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine). The GHK sequence of this peptide consists of three amino acids (Gly-His-Lys), commonly found in plasma, which is attached to a palmitic acid molecule.
The importance of the added palmitic group is in increasing lipophilicity (the ability to dissolve in fats, oil, lipids) which allows it to penetrate the stratum corneum of the epidermal barrier better. This makes the peptide as a whole, more compatible with the lipid-rich environment, better overall penetration and absorption.
Pal-GHK Action and Potential Application
Pal-GHK, or palmitoyl tripeptide-1, has been studied for its potential effects on collagen and overall skin health and pigmentation. Scientists are mainly interested in its ability to stimulate collagen production and boost blood vessel growth.
The “success” of Pal-GHK peptide relies heavily on the body’s natural ability to initiate collagen production when it gets damaged. When collagen in our body gets damaged, whe are left with fragments which then signal our body to start producing more of it. And this very process was identified in 1988 when it was found that the GHK section is that actual fragment that signals collagen production response.
And the Pal section, as we already said, was designed merely as a “vehicle” which allows for the rest of the peptide compound to penetrate the skin barrier and better dissolve in the tissue below.
Even though we are still missing more comprehensive, human studies, animal models showed Pal-GHK was able to protect the skin better, increase collagen production, as well as elastin, and restore moisture and fullness. Besides acting on its own, Pal-GHK peptide was also shown to be an amazing complementary ingredient, able to boost the effectiveness of other skin care products and further improve their skin care, reduce wrinkles and minimize photodamage.
References:
https://febs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1016/0014-5793%2888%2980509-X
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8400021/
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1046/j.1467-2494.2000.00010.x