pentapeptide4

Pentapeptide-4, commonly marketed as palmitoyl pentapeptide-4, is a synthetic lipidated peptide used in cosmetic formulations as an anti-aging ingredient. It consists of a five-amino-acid sequence covalently linked to a palmitoyl (fatty) chain to enhance skin penetration and stability. The exact amino acid sequence is proprietary in many formulations, but the compound is described as a short peptide designed to interact with skin cells.

Mechanistically, pentapeptide-4 is regarded as a matrikine, a signaling peptide that can influence the extracellular matrix. In laboratory studies, it has been associated with increased production of collagen and other matrix components by dermal fibroblasts and with improvements in markers of skin structure. In consumer-focused or small clinical studies, products containing the ingredient have been associated with modest improvements in wrinkle depth, skin firmness, and overall texture after several weeks of regular use. Results across studies are variable, and the magnitude of effect is generally described as modest compared with more intensive anti-aging interventions.

Applications and use are primarily topical, with pentapeptide-4 incorporated into creams, serums, and lotions at low concentrations. It is widely marketed for cosmetic purposes and is not approved as a medical drug; product claims reflect cosmetic benefits rather than disease treatment.

Safety notes indicate that pentapeptide-4 is typically well tolerated, with rare instances of skin irritation or allergic reaction. As with other cosmetic ingredients, individuals with sensitive skin should perform patch testing. Production methods usually involve solid-phase peptide synthesis followed by palmitoylation to yield the lipidated peptide.