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.
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 | 1-2x daily |
| Timing | Morning and/or evening skincare routine |
| Route | Topical |
Topical application only. Typical formulations range 2-5% w/v. Start with 1x daily application and increase to 2x daily based on skin tolerance. For research purposes 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
Molecular and Pharmacological Data
| Molecular weight | 531.7 g/mol (palmitoyl-conjugated tripeptide) |
| Sequence | Pal-Gly-His-Lys |
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.
Fibroblast Growth Factor (FGF) Signaling
Pal-AHK activates FGF receptor pathways on dermal fibroblasts, triggering intracellular signaling cascades that upregulate collagen synthesis and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) inhibition.
Collagen Synthesis and Cross-linking
Increased expression of COL1A1 and COL3A1 genes leads to enhanced Type I and Type III collagen deposition, improving skin structural integrity and reducing visible signs of aging.
Transdermal Penetration Enhancement
The palmitoyl moiety increases lipophilicity, allowing the peptide to cross the stratum corneum barrier and reach viable epidermis and dermis more efficiently than unmodified peptides.
- Palmitoyl conjugation increases skin penetration 10-fold compared to unconjugated GHK tripeptide
- Stimulates collagen I and III synthesis in human dermal fibroblasts in vitro
- Reduces MMP-1 expression, protecting existing collagen from degradation
- Clinical studies show visible improvement in fine lines and skin firmness after 4-8 weeks of twice-daily application
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View all peptidesResearch 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.