Matrixyl 3000
A two-peptide successor to Matrixyl, pairing a collagen signal with an anti-inflammatory fragment. Evidence is largely supplier-generated.
Skin & Cosmetic
Matrixyl
A collagen fragment attached to a fatty acid so it can cross the skin barrier. One of the few cosmetic peptides with a published double-blind trial showing wrinkle improvement.
Overview
When collagen breaks down it releases short fragments, and the skin appears to read those fragments as a signal that repair is needed. KTTKS is one such fragment from type I collagen. On its own it is too water-loving to get through the skin's outer layer, so it is attached to palmitic acid, which lets it pass. Once through, it prompts fibroblasts to make more collagen and matrix proteins.
Palmitoyl-Lys-Thr-Thr-Lys-Ser, the KTTKS subfragment of the type I procollagen C-terminal propeptide, conjugated to palmitic acid to increase lipophilicity and stratum corneum permeation. Stimulates fibroblast production of collagen I, collagen IV and fibronectin in vitro through matrikine feedback signalling. A 12-week double-blind, placebo-controlled, split-face trial reported significant improvements in wrinkle length and depth versus vehicle. Effect sizes are modest and the concentrations used commercially vary widely.
Research areas
PhotoageingCollagen synthesisTopical anti-ageing
Dosing reported in the literature
Every protocol below is reproduced from a published study or approved labelling, with its source named. These are records of what was studied — not recommendations, and not a suggestion that any of them is appropriate for any person.
| Protocol as reported | Source |
|---|---|
| Topical 3 ppm pal-KTTKS applied twice daily for 12 weeks in a vehicle-controlled split-face design | Robinson et al., International Journal of Cosmetic Science 2005 |
Trial status
A published 12-week double-blind, vehicle-controlled split-face trial, plus supporting in-vitro work.
Reported safety signals
- Well tolerated topically; irritation is uncommon and less frequent than with retinoids.
- Effect sizes are modest — this is a supporting ingredient, not a substitute for tretinoin or a procedure.
- Injection has no published basis or safety data.
Common questions
Why is the palmitoyl part necessary?
KTTKS is hydrophilic and will not cross the lipid-rich stratum corneum in useful amounts. Attaching palmitic acid makes the molecule lipophilic enough to partition into the barrier. Without it, the peptide sits on the surface doing nothing.
Primary sources
Medical disclaimer
This page is for informational and research purposes only. Nothing here constitutes medical advice. The compounds discussed are research chemicals. Consult a qualified clinician before starting any protocol.
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