What is Palmitoyl Sh-Pentapeptide-4?
Palmitoyl Sh-Pentapeptide-4, also known as Pal-KTTKS, is a synthetic peptide that is commonly used in a variety of skincare products. It is a compound that is derived from the reaction of palmitic acid chloride and sh-Pentapeptide-4. Palmitic acid is a common saturated fatty acid found in both animals and plants, while sh-Pentapeptide-4 is a chain of five amino acids. The combination of these two substances results in a lipid (fat) soluble compound that can easily penetrate the skin.
The use of Palmitoyl Sh-Pentapeptide-4 in cosmetics is a relatively recent development, with the ingredient first appearing in skincare products in the early 2000s. It was introduced as a potential alternative to retinol, a popular but sometimes irritating skincare ingredient. The creation of Palmitoyl Sh-Pentapeptide-4 involves a complex chemical process, where the palmitic acid chloride reacts with the sh-Pentapeptide-4 in a controlled environment.
Compared to similar ingredients, Palmitoyl Sh-Pentapeptide-4 has a unique advantage due to its lipid solubility. This allows it to penetrate the skin more effectively than water-soluble ingredients, which can sometimes struggle to pass through the skin’s lipid barrier. This makes it a particularly effective ingredient in products designed to deliver deep hydration or targeted treatment to the skin.
Typically, Palmitoyl Sh-Pentapeptide-4 is found in a variety of skincare products, including moisturizers, serums, and anti-aging treatments. Its primary functions are as an antioxidant and skin conditioner, helping to protect the skin from damage and improve its overall texture and appearance. It’s also often used in products designed to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, thanks to its ability to stimulate collagen production in the skin.
Benefits and Uses
In this section, we will delve into the officially recognized benefits and uses of Palmitoyl Sh-Pentapeptide-4:
Antioxidant Properties
Palmitoyl Sh-Pentapeptide-4 is officially recognized for its antioxidant properties. In layman’s terms, this means it helps protect your skin from damage caused by harmful molecules known as free radicals. These free radicals are often a result of environmental factors like pollution and sunlight. By neutralizing these free radicals, Palmitoyl Sh-Pentapeptide-4 can help prevent premature aging of the skin, keeping it looking youthful and vibrant.
Skin Conditioning
Another official function of Palmitoyl Sh-Pentapeptide-4 is its skin conditioning properties. This essentially means it helps to make the skin feel smoother, softer, and more supple. It achieves this by promoting the skin’s natural moisture balance and enhancing its texture and appearance. This makes it a valuable ingredient in many skincare products, particularly those aimed at combating dry or rough skin.
It’s important to note that these benefits are based on the officially recognized and defined functions of Palmitoyl Sh-Pentapeptide-4. There may be other potential benefits and uses of this ingredient that go beyond the scope of these official functions. However, these additional benefits are not officially recognized and therefore, should be considered with caution until further research is conducted.
Safety Profile
Palmitoyl sh-Pentapeptide-4 is not a banned or regulated ingredient in cosmetics. It is generally considered safe for use in skincare and cosmetic products. However, like any ingredient, it may not be suitable for all skin types and there is always a potential for allergic reactions.
Some potential side effects of topical application of Palmitoyl sh-Pentapeptide-4 include:
- Redness
- Itching
- Skin irritation
A note for women who are pregnant and/or breastfeeding – there is currently a lack of data regarding the safety of topical usage of Palmitoyl sh-Pentapeptide-4 during pregnancy or breastfeeding. As such, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for further advice.
Side effects or adverse reactions from Palmitoyl sh-Pentapeptide-4 are not common, but it is always recommended to perform a patch test before widespread usage to ensure there is no adverse reaction.
This ingredient analysis has been commissioned by Truth In Skincare (TiS), an independent industry regulator. The analysis was conducted by a TiS-appointed industry consultant, using sources including the CosIng (Cosmetic Ingredient Database – by the European Commission), the Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), The US Food & Drug Administration (FDA), as well as other various publicly available sources.
