Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12

Best

Peptide

Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12 at a glance

  • A synthetic peptide that matches a sequence of amino acids found in skin
  • Signals skin to look younger by boosting its firm feeling
  • Creates a supple surface by strengthening skin’s barrier
  • Requires a surprisingly low amount for efficacy

Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12 description

Palmitoyl hexapeptide-12 is a lab-made peptide that blends the fatty acid palmitic acid with several amino acids, including glycine, histidine, and lysine. Combining this specifically engineered peptide with palmitic acid enhances its penetration into skin as well as the peptide’s stability. In the early days of peptides in skin care it went by the catchall term palmitoyl oligopeptide. The amino acid sequence of this peptide mimics that of peptides naturally occurring in skin, meaning skin recognises and can readily utilize it. It works on and within skin’s uppermost layers by influencing key supportive elements in skin that result in a firmer surface and minimized appearance of wrinkles. It also strengthens skin’s barrier by improving moisture retention, leaving skin feeling supple instead of rough. As a signal peptide, it can “tell” skin to look younger. It is considered safe as used in cosmetics, where its calculated efficacy is in the parts per million range. This translates to very low percentages used in skin care, as low as 0.0000001%; however, research is clear that small amounts of this peptide can produce impressive results. Palmitoyl hexapeptide-12 is most often used on its own rather than being part of a blend with other peptides, although such blends are available.

Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12 references

  • Frontiers in Chemistry, October 2020, ePublication
  • International Journal of Toxicology, 2018, pages 90S-102S
  • Cosmetics, Volume 4, Issue 16, May 2017, pages 1–17
  • Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, February 2017, pages 73–80
  • Biomolecules and Therapeutics, July 2014, pages 321–327
  • International Journal of Cosmetic Science, June 2005, pages 155–160

Peer-reviewed, substantiated scientific research is used to assess ingredients in this dictionary. Regulations regarding constraints, permitted concentration levels and availability vary by country and region.

Ingredient ratings

Best

Proven and supported by independent studies. Outstanding active ingredient for most skin types or concerns.

Good

Necessary to improve a formula's texture, stability, or penetration.

Average

Generally non-irritating but may have aesthetic, stability, or other issues that limit its usefulness.

Bad

There is a likelihood of irritation. Risk increases when combined with other problematic ingredients.

Worst

May cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, etc. May offer benefit in some capability but overall, proven to do more harm than good.

unknown

We couldn't find this in our ingredient dictionary. We log all missing ingredients and make continuous updates.

Not rated

We have not yet rated this ingredient because we have not had a chance to review the research on it.