What Is Palmitoyl Lysyl Aminovaleroyl Lysine?
Palmitoyl Lysyl Aminovaleroyl Lysine is a lab-made peptide that joins a fatty acid called palmitic acid to a short chain of amino acids, mainly lysine and aminovaleric acid. By combining a lipid and a peptide, chemists create a molecule that mixes well with both oils and water, letting it slip easily into the skin’s surface layers.
The ingredient grew out of research in the early 2000s, when formulators searched for milder alternatives to heavy occlusive oils. Small peptides linked to fatty acids showed promise for boosting skin softness without feeling greasy, so suppliers began offering them to cosmetic brands. Palmitoyl Lysyl Aminovaleroyl Lysine soon appeared in prototype creams and was later adopted by mainstream skincare lines once stability and safety data were established.
Manufacturing starts with plant-derived palmitic acid and fermented lysine. These building blocks are reacted in a controlled setting to form a stable amide bond, then purified through filtration and gentle drying. The result is a fine powder or viscous liquid that dissolves in the oil phase of a formula.
You will most often see this peptide in leave-on products where a smooth skin feel is important—daily moisturizers, lightweight anti-aging lotions, night creams, hydrating masks and eye treatments. Because it plays nicely with emulsions, it can also show up in silicone-free primers and BB creams aimed at giving skin a soft, conditioned finish.
Palmitoyl Lysyl Aminovaleroyl Lysine’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In skincare formulas this ingredient is prized for a single core role: skin conditioning.
As a skin-conditioning agent it helps replenish the skin’s surface with a blendable, velvety layer that reduces rough patches, improves flexibility and leaves the complexion feeling supple. The lipid portion supports the skin’s own barrier, slowing water loss, while the peptide portion attracts a light film of moisture. Together these actions make creams feel richer without heaviness and can enhance overall product spreadability and after-feel.
Who Can Use Palmitoyl Lysyl Aminovaleroyl Lysine
This conditioning peptide is generally suited to all skin types. Dry and mature skin benefit from its barrier support while normal and combination complexions enjoy the light silky finish. Oily or blemish prone users usually tolerate it well because it is lightweight and has a very low tendency to clog pores. Highly reactive or allergy prone skin should still scan full ingredient lists to rule out other triggers but the peptide itself is considered gentle.
The ingredient is produced from plant sourced palmitic acid and fermented amino acids so it aligns with vegan and vegetarian preferences. No animal by products are involved in its manufacture or typical formulation use.
No research has linked topical Palmitoyl Lysyl Aminovaleroyl Lysine to risks during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Penetration through intact skin is minimal, yet this is not medical advice. Expectant or nursing mothers should show any skincare routine to their physician for personalized guidance.
The peptide is not known to increase photosensitivity. Normal daytime SPF habits are still encouraged but no extra sun precautions are required solely due to this ingredient.
Palmitoyl Lysyl Aminovaleroyl Lysine is compatible with most common actives such as niacinamide, vitamin C and retinoids and it remains stable across the usual pH range found in creams and serums.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Palmitoyl Lysyl Aminovaleroyl Lysine differ from person to person. The points below cover potential side effects but most users will not encounter them when using a well formulated product.
- Mild skin irritation or redness
- Temporary stinging on freshly exfoliated or compromised skin
- Allergic contact dermatitis for those sensitive to peptides or fatty acids
- Rare clogged pores or breakouts in individuals extremely prone to acne
If you notice any of these effects stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional or dermatologist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5
This peptide is lightweight and has a balanced mix of oil-friendly and water-friendly parts, so it spreads easily without building a thick film that can trap dead cells or sebum. Laboratory studies and user reports show very little pore blocking. A score of 1 reflects this low but not zero chance of congestion.
Suitable for most acne-prone or breakout-prone skin since its clogging risk is minimal.
Formulas that pair the peptide with heavy butters or waxes may raise the overall comedogenic load, so always look at the full ingredient list when judging a product.
Summary
Palmitoyl Lysyl Aminovaleroyl Lysine is a lab-crafted lipid-peptide that mainly conditions skin. The fatty acid segment reinforces the skin barrier and slows water loss while the short amino acid chain draws light moisture to the surface, leaving skin soft and flexible without greasiness.
It is still a niche ingredient found mostly in mid to high-end moisturizers, primers and eye creams, though its silky feel is helping it gain steady traction among formulators looking for gentle barrier helpers.
Current data show it is low risk, non irritating for most users and vegan friendly. As with any new skincare addition it is smart to patch test first to make sure your skin agrees with the full formula.