Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12
Synthetic lipopeptide of six amino acids with a palmitic tail for better penetration. The manufacturer claims stimulation of collagen and glycosaminoglycan synthesis and wrinkle smoothing. Part of well-known anti-age complexes (Matrixyl synthe'6). Belongs to the 'signalling peptide' class.
Evidence by route
Topical application
Signalling peptides as a class show a modest clinical effect in a few RCTs. For Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12 there are no head-to-head comparisons with retinol or vitamin C in independent studies. The evidence base is primarily manufacturer-led (Sederma) with moderate methodology.
- Schagen SK. Cosmetics. 2017;4(2):16. PMID 4020016
- Sederma. Matrixyl synthe'6 technical documentation. 2013.
How to read tiers A–F
- CWeak evidence. In vitro data, open-label studies, or expert consensus
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Combination, Sensitive
About this ingredient
Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12 is a synthetic lipopeptide of 6 amino acids with a palmitoyl group for penetration. An analog of signaling peptides regulating collagen synthesis. Mechanism. The claimed mechanism is mimicking transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β), stimulating type I, III collagen and elastin synthesis in fibroblasts. Based on manufacturer in vitro studies. Where applied. Anti-aging serums and creams. Concentration 0.01–0.1% (as part of peptide complexes with matrixyl, argireline, etc.). Evidence base. Independent clinical RCTs are few. No systematic review. CIR has not published a separate assessment. The evidence base is inferior to retinol, vitamin C, glycolic acid. Safety. Hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic. Pregnancy and lactation – topically safe per manufacturers, but no direct data. Unlike palmitoyl pentapeptide-4 (matrixyl), less studied.
Frequently asked questions
Is Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12 safe during pregnancy?
Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12 is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12 for?
Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12 suits: normal, dry, combination, sensitive.
What is Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12 and what does it do in cosmetics?
Synthetic lipopeptide of six amino acids with a palmitic tail for better penetration.
What's the INCI name for Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12?
The INCI name is Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12.
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