Pal-AHK

Key points

• Pal-AHK is the AHK peptide with a palmitoyl (fatty) group added to help it penetrate the skin.
• It is marketed to support hair and skin condition.
• On the skin, with no medicinal claims, it is regulated as a cosmetic ingredient in the UK.
• The evidence is modest, and cosmetic claims are best kept in proportion.

Quick facts

What it is

Cosmetic skincare peptide (palmitoyl AHK)

Marketed for

Hair and skin condition

UK status

Legal as a cosmetic ingredient (no medicinal claims)

Evidence

Modest

How it works

Adding a fatty group to a small peptide helps it pass into the skin, where it is meant to signal to skin and hair cells. Most of the supporting evidence is from laboratory and manufacturer studies.

What the evidence shows

There are studies, often from manufacturers, suggesting modest cosmetic effects. 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 usually 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, Pal-AHK is legal and widely sold in skincare and hair products. Any version sold with medicinal claims, or for injection, would fall under medicines rules.

Common questions