What Is Palmitoyl Sh-Tripeptide-3 Amide?
Palmitoyl Sh-Tripeptide-3 Amide is a lab-made peptide that joins a short chain of three amino acids, known as Sh-Tripeptide-3, with palmitic acid, a fatty acid commonly found in palm oil and other plant oils. The palmitic part helps the peptide blend well with skin’s natural lipids while the amide ending stabilizes the molecule. First explored in the early 2000s as part of the wave of “signal” peptides aimed at supporting youthful-looking skin, it quickly found a place in high-end skin care for its ability to mimic some of the skin’s own repair signals.
Manufacturers typically build the tripeptide by solid-phase synthesis, then attach palmitic acid in a controlled chemical reaction. The final step converts the carboxyl end into an amide to boost stability and shelf life. Because it is synthetically produced, the ingredient avoids the variability of animal or plant extracts and meets vegan and cruelty-free standards.
You will spot Palmitoyl Sh-Tripeptide-3 Amide in lightweight serums, eye creams, anti-aging moisturizers, sheet and cream masks, leave-on night treatments and even some primers that promise long-term skin care benefits under makeup.
Palmitoyl Sh-Tripeptide-3 Amide’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This multitasking peptide brings several useful actions to skin care formulas:
- Humectant – attracts and binds water, helping skin stay hydrated and plump throughout the day
- Skin Conditioning – softens and smooths the skin surface, improving overall texture and the way products glide on
- Skin Protecting – forms a light, breathable film that reinforces the skin barrier so it can better resist environmental stress like wind and temperature shifts
Who Can Use Palmitoyl Sh-Tripeptide-3 Amide
This peptide is generally friendly to all skin types, from dry and mature to oily and combination. Its water-binding action helps dry skin stay supple while the lightweight texture does not clog pores, so even oily or breakout-prone users can benefit. Sensitive skin usually tolerates it well because it is non-fragrant and free of common irritants. There are no particular skin types that must avoid it, though anyone with a known allergy to peptides or fatty acids should proceed with caution.
Because it is made entirely in the lab without animal-derived components, Palmitoyl Sh-Tripeptide-3 Amide is suitable for both vegans and vegetarians.
No studies link this ingredient to problems during pregnancy or breastfeeding. It works on the surface of the skin and is used at low levels, so the risk of systemic absorption is minimal. That said, this is not medical advice; anyone who is pregnant or nursing should check with a doctor before adding new skincare products to their routine.
The peptide does not increase sensitivity to sunlight, so it is safe to use morning or night. Standard daytime sunscreen is still recommended for overall skin health.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to any skincare ingredient can vary from person to person. The following is a list of potential side effects you could experience, but most users will not encounter them when the product is properly formulated.
- Mild redness or warmth shortly after application
- Temporary itching or tingling, especially on very sensitive skin
- Dry patches if combined with strong exfoliating acids or retinoids
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis presenting as rash or swelling
- Eye irritation if the product migrates into the eye area
If any of these reactions occur stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
Palmitoyl Sh-Tripeptide-3 Amide contains a palmitic acid tail, a fatty acid that can clog pores in high amounts, but the peptide is used at very low concentrations and is water dispersible rather than oily. Most formulas include it at less than 2 percent, far below the level that would normally provoke breakouts.
Because of its low usage rate and lightweight finish this ingredient is generally suitable for acne-prone or congestion-prone skin.
If the product you are considering pairs the peptide with heavy occlusive oils or waxes the overall formula could still feel pore clogging, so the full ingredient list matters more than the peptide itself.
Summary
Palmitoyl Sh-Tripeptide-3 Amide hydrates by drawing water into the skin, conditions by smoothing the surface and supports barrier protection by forming a light film. It achieves these benefits thanks to its hybrid structure: the amino acid segment signals skin to hold moisture while the palmitic side anchors the molecule so it can sit comfortably in the lipid layer.
The peptide enjoys modest popularity, appearing most often in mid to high tier serums and eye creams rather than in drugstore basics. Brands that focus on peptide technology tend to feature it while minimalist or purely botanical lines may skip it.
Safety data show a low risk of irritation or sensitization when the ingredient is used as directed, and its synthetic origin keeps it free of animal concerns. As with any new skincare addition it is wise to do a quick patch test first to confirm personal tolerance.