Palmitoyl Tripeptide-38: The Complete Guide

Written by the Osmotics team · Reviewed by Elena Hart, MD, dermatologist · Last updated

The short answer

Palmitoyl tripeptide-38 is a signal peptide that supports multiple components of the skin's matrix, helping smooth the look of wrinkles and improve texture.

Quick answer: Palmitoyl Tripeptide-38 is a signal peptide (the active in Matrixyl® Synthe’6) developed to support multiple components of the skin’s matrix at once — helping visibly smooth wrinkles, especially deeper set-in lines like the forehead and nasolabial folds, and improve overall firmness.

What is Palmitoyl Tripeptide-38?

Palmitoyl Tripeptide-38 is a matrikine signal peptide, best known as the active behind Matrixyl® Synthe’6. Like other matrikines it “talks” to skin cells, but it’s notable for signalling support across several building blocks of the skin’s support structure rather than just one — which is why it’s associated with the look of deeper, more established wrinkles.

How it works

The peptide signals the skin’s fibroblasts to support multiple matrix constituents — the proteins and molecules that give skin its firmness, cushioning and smoothness. By supporting the structure on several fronts, it helps “fill in” the look of deeper wrinkles from within and improve overall firmness. The “palmitoyl” tail helps it penetrate the skin’s surface.

What does it do for skin?

  • Smooths deeper wrinkles — targets set-in lines like the forehead, crow’s feet and nasolabial folds.
  • Supports firmness — helps skin look denser and better cushioned.
  • Refines overall texture — for a smoother, more even surface.

How to use it

Palmitoyl Tripeptide-38 comes formulated into anti-wrinkle serums and creams and is gentle enough for twice-daily use. It layers beautifully with copper peptides, Matrixyl® 3000, hyaluronic acid and retinol — stacking complementary signal peptides is how advanced routines target wrinkles gently.

Is it safe?

Signal peptides are among the best-tolerated anti-ageing actives and suit most skin types, including sensitive skin. This guide is general education, not medical advice; individual results vary.

Explore every peptide we use in the Ingredient Glossary, or find your match with the skin quiz.

Frequently asked questions

What is Palmitoyl Tripeptide-38?

A matrikine signal peptide (the active in Matrixyl® Synthe’6) that signals support across several parts of the skin’s matrix to smooth deeper wrinkles and firm skin.

How is it different from Matrixyl 3000?

Both are matrikine peptides. Palmitoyl Tripeptide-38 supports multiple matrix components and is particularly associated with deeper, set-in wrinkles; they complement each other.

Which wrinkles does it target?

It’s associated with the look of deeper lines such as the forehead, crow’s feet and nasolabial folds.

Can I layer it with other actives?

Yes — it pairs well with copper peptides, Matrixyl® 3000, hyaluronic acid and retinol.

How long does it take to work?

Results build gradually over several weeks to a few months of consistent use. Individual results vary.

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Anti-Aging Super Serum Anti-Aging Super Serum Anti-Aging Super Serum pairs copper peptide and Matrixyl® with multi-weight hyaluronic acid, for fine ... $70.00

References

  1. Robinson LR, Fitzgerald NC, Doughty DG, et al. Topical palmitoyl pentapeptide provides improvement in photoaged human facial skin. International Journal of Cosmetic Science. 2005;27(3):155–160.
  2. Schagen SK. Topical Peptide Treatments with Effective Anti-Aging Results. Cosmetics. 2017;4(2):16.

Figures cited for palmitoyl tripeptide-38 (Matrixyl® Synthe'6) are drawn from the ingredient manufacturer's own studies.

This guide describes the appearance of skin and is general education, not medical advice; individual results may vary.