Matrixyl

Key points

• Matrixyl is a brand name for cosmetic peptides, such as palmitoyl pentapeptides, used in anti ageing skincare.
• It is marketed to support collagen and reduce the look of fine lines and wrinkles.
• On the skin, with no medicinal claims, it is regulated as a cosmetic ingredient in the UK.
• It is one of the better studied cosmetic peptides, though the effects are still modest.

Quick facts

What it is

Cosmetic skincare peptide (brand)

Marketed for

Collagen support and wrinkles

UK status

Legal as a cosmetic ingredient (no medicinal claims)

Evidence

Modest; among the better studied cosmetic peptides

How it works

Matrixyl peptides are used in cosmetics with the aim of signalling to skin cells to make more collagen and other support proteins, which can make skin look firmer. Most of the supporting evidence is from laboratory and manufacturer studies.

What the evidence shows

Matrixyl is among the more studied cosmetic peptides, with some evidence for modest improvements in the look of wrinkles. Much of the research comes from manufacturers, and independent high quality trials are limited, so claims should be kept modest.

What it does not settle

• Independent high quality evidence is limited.
• Effects are modest and build slowly.
• Results depend on the product and how it is used.

Side effects

Common

• Usually well tolerated, though some people get mild irritation or redness. A patch test is sensible.

Report any suspected side effect through the MHRA Yellow Card scheme.

UK legal status and access

As a topical cosmetic ingredient with no medicinal claims, Matrixyl is legal and widely sold in skincare. Any version sold with medicinal claims would fall under medicines rules.

Common questions