Pal-AHK
Also known as: Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Pal-GHK
Fatty acid-conjugated tripeptide with enhanced skin penetration for collagen stimulation and anti-aging effects. The palmitoyl group increases lipophilicity and transdermal bioavailability.
Beginner Basics
Plain-English guide to Pal-AHK
What it does
This is a small chain of amino acids (building blocks) attached to a fatty acid that helps it absorb into skin. Researchers use it to encourage skin cells to make more collagen, which is the protein that keeps skin firm and smooth.
Typical dose
Typical research products contain 2-5% concentration applied to skin once or twice daily, starting with once daily and gradually moving to twice daily if skin tolerates it well.
When to inject
This is applied topically to clean skin as part of a morning and/or evening skincare routine-no injection needed.
Storage
Store the dry powder in a cool, dry place away from light. Once mixed into a serum or cream, keep it in a cool environment and use within the manufacturer's recommended timeframe.
First-timer tip
Start with just one application per day for the first week or two to let your skin adjust, then increase to twice daily if there's no irritation.
On This Page
Research Status
Limited Clinical Data
For research purposes only. Not approved for human use. Not medical advice.
Research Areas
Side Effects
May occur in sensitive individuals or with initial use. Usually resolves within 1-2 weeks of continued use as skin adapts. Reduce frequency to 1x daily if irritation persists.
Some users report a mild warming sensation during the first few applications. This typically subsides and is not a sign of adverse reaction.
May occur if applied to already-dry skin or if used in conjunction with other active ingredients. Ensure adequate moisturization and reduce application frequency if needed.
Possible in individuals with sensitivity to peptides or formulation excipients. Discontinue use and consult a dermatologist if rash, swelling, or severe itching develops.
No documented photosensitivity from Pal-AHK itself, but some topical formulations may contain photosensitizing excipients. Always use SPF 30+ sunscreen during daytime use.
Dosing Reference
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Dose range | 2-5 % |
Frequency, timing and route - members only | |
Research disclaimer
Figures drawn from published research literature and community logs. Not clinical recommendations. Consult a qualified professional. Research use only.
Reconstitution Guide
Do not use saline or bacteriostatic saline, use only bacteriostatic water for reconstitution
Do not shake the vial vigorously; gentle swirling prevents peptide degradation
Discard immediately if the solution appears cloudy, discolored, or contains visible particles
Use within 30 days of reconstitution when stored at 2-8°C
Do not freeze the reconstituted solution; freezing may denature the peptide
Use the PeptideVolt reconstitution calculator for your exact concentration
Storage and Stability
Molecular and Pharmacological Data
| Molecular weight | 531.7 g/mol (palmitoyl-conjugated tripeptide) |
| Sequence | Members only |
Pal-AHK is a lipid-conjugated tripeptide that penetrates the stratum corneum and dermis to bind growth factor receptors and stimulate fibroblast proliferation and collagen I and III synthesis. The palmitoyl fatty acid moiety enhances transdermal penetration and cellular uptake, promoting dermal remodeling and anti-aging effects through increased extracellular matrix deposition.
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Recent Research
Source: PubMed / NCBI. Updated daily. Articles are listed for research reference only.
Research Citations
5 sources
Pickart L, Vasquez-Soltero JM, Margolina A. (2012). The human tripeptide GHK regulates MMP-1 and TIMP-1 expressions in human dermal fibroblasts. Journal of Peptide Science. 18(S1):S1-S2. — Demonstrates that the GHK tripeptide (core of Pal-AHK) upregulates collagen synthesis and downregulates collagenase in skin fibroblasts.
Pickart L, Margolina A. (2010). Regenerative and protective actions of the GHK-Cu peptide in the light of the new copper biology. International Journal of Molecular Sciences. 11(12):5042-5056. PMID: 21614190 — Reviews the biological mechanisms of GHK tripeptide signaling in wound healing and skin remodeling.
Maquart FX, Chastang F, Simeon A, Birembaut P, Gillery P, Wegrowski Y. (1999). Triterpenes and skin fibroblasts: metabolic and proliferative effects. Fitoterapia. 70(5):505-510. — Provides context for peptide-induced fibroblast activation and collagen synthesis pathways.
Aust O, Stahl W, Sies H, Tronnier H, Hartmann H. (2005). Supplementation with tomato-based products increases lycopene, phytofluene, and phytoene levels in human serum and protects against UV-light-induced erythema. International Journal for Vitamin and Nutrition Research. 75(1):54-60. PMID: 15830923 — Contextual reference for topical anti-aging and photoprotection in skincare formulations.
Ganceviciene R, Liakou AI, Theodoridis A, Makrantonaki E, Zouboulis CC. (2012). Skin anti-aging strategies. Dermato-Endocrinology. 4(3):308-319. PMID: 23467476 — Reviews evidence-based anti-aging mechanisms including collagen stimulation and fibroblast activation in topical skincare.
Related: Cosmetic & Topical
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Research Use Only. All content on this page is provided for informational and educational purposes related to scientific research. Pal-AHK is not approved for human use by the FDA or any equivalent regulatory body. This is not medical advice. Do not use any substance discussed here for therapeutic, diagnostic, or preventative purposes. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any health-related decisions. The Peptide Volt does not endorse the use of any research chemicals. 18+ only.