Pal-GHK (Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1)
 
What Is Pal-GHK?
Pal-GHK is a hybrid synthetic molecule made of one-part peptide and one-part fatty acid. The “Pal” segment of the name refers to palmitoyl, a well-known fatty acid and common component of mammalian cell membranes.
The “GHK” component stands for the peptide sequence glycine-histidine-lysine. This is a small fraction of the much larger elastin protein and a potent stimulant of fibroblasts (cells that synthesise collagen, elastin, and other important proteins in the extracellular matrix of skin, bone and other connective tissues).
Pal-GHK is often included in research designs with other short peptides
 
What Does Pal-GHK Do?
The GHK component of Pal-GHK tricks fibroblasts into thinking that elastin, a common skin protein, has been damaged. This induces the fibroblasts to grow and multiply so that they can regenerate what they think is the lost elastin in the skin. In ageing animals, fibroblasts tend to lose activity and become dormant. Studies in animal models indicate that GHK can re-energise fibroblasts and thus help to overcome some of the common effects that ageing has on skin.
 
 The Pal component of Pal-GHK is simply a vehicle. By attaching this fatty acid to a peptide sequence, it is possible to achieve greater skin and cell penetration in animal models. In other words, the job of Pal is to help GHK get to where it can be of most use – the inside of cells deep within the skin.
 
Pal-GHK Research on Reducing Wrinkles and Strengthening Skin
Pal-GHK has been shown, in animal models, to protect the skin from many of the effects of ageing. In particular, Pal-GHK has been shown to boost collagen and elastin production.
It seems to be particularly useful for restoring lip moisture and fullness in animal models. When combined with other short peptides, Pal-GHK can act synergistically to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
It has even been shown to help reduce redness and discoloured skin secondary to photodamage in animal studies