Do you know the benefits of using skincare products that contain Matrixyl 3000? Matrixyl 3000 is a type of synthetic peptide used in skincare for its ability to stimulate collagen production, which results in anti-aging effects. If you’ve never heard of Matrixyl 3000 or don’t even know what a peptide is, this article is for you. Read below to learn all about peptides, their role in skin health, the benefits of Matrixyl 3000, and the best products with Matrixyl 3000.
What are peptides?
Before we discuss the benefits of Matrixyl 3000, it’s important to have a good understanding of peptides.
In simple terms, peptides are fragments of proteins. Peptides are formed when amino acids bond together. For example, when two amino acids are joined together by a single bond it is called a dipeptide.
Three linked amino acids are a tripeptide, followed by tetrapeptides, etc. You may know that proteins are composed of amino acids linked together, too.
So what’s the difference between a peptide and a protein? While they are both made of the same building blocks (amino acids), it all comes down to size. Peptides typically contain 50 or fewer amino acids. Proteins consist of 50 or more amino acids and can be made of polypeptides (a long peptide chain).
The role of peptides in skin health
There are naturally occurring peptides in the skin that are generated from extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins (e.g. collagen, elastin, fibronectin) and from antimicrobial peptide (AMP) precursor proteins. Peptides that are liberated by partial proteolysis (breakdown) of ECM proteins are called matrikines. Matrikines regulate cell activities through cell signaling. For example, when the collagen protein is degraded, matrikines send signals to fibroblasts to produce new collagen. Collagen is involved in wound healing, and is also responsible for keeping the skin strong and firm. Without matrikines and other peptides, the skin will start to lose firmness. Over time, this results in the appearance of wrinkles, texture changes, and skin that doesn’t bounce back as it once did.
Since matrikines have the ability to increase the production of collagen, elastin, and other macromolecules in the ECM, synthetic peptides have been created to mimic these effects. Numerous skincare products incorporate these synthetic peptides to provide anti-aging effects, including reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, improving skin texture, and increasing skin firmness. And as you can probably guess, Matrixyl 3000 is one of these peptides.
What is Matrixyl 3000?
Matrixyl 3000 is a trademarked peptide composition developed by Sederma Inc. in France. It is the first anti-aging ingredient based on the matrikine peptide technology. Matrixyl 3000 is composed of the matrikines palmitoyl tripeptide-1 and palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7. These two peptides work synergistically to restore and maintain the skin’s youthful appearance by signaling to cells to produce more collagen. Numerous studies have proven the anti-aging and anti-wrinkle efficacy of Matrixyl 3000.
For example, a clinical study involving female participants demonstrated that after just 2 months of treatment with Matrixyl 3000, the area occupied by deep wrinkles was reduced by 45%, and the skin’s tonicity increased by nearly 20%. In a separate 2 month clinical study conducted on a panel of men, the anti-wrinkle efficacy of Matrixyl 3000 was confirmed. As the wrinkle volume decreases (-17.1%), the spread angle increases (+5.4%), which leads to a reduction of the surface occupied by deep wrinkles of nearly 30%.
Another peptide complex by Sederma Inc. is Matrixyl synthe’6. It is composed of palmitoyl tripeptide-38, a peptide derived from the tripeptide KMK naturally found in collagen VI and laminin. In-vitro studies have found Matrixyl synthe’6 to have a matrikine-like effect that stimulates the synthesis of collagen I, II, IV, fibronectin, hyaluronic acid, and laminin 5.
The best Matrixyl 3000 product
Carrot & Stick The Eye Serum
A blend of advanced peptides reduces the look of discoloration and rich moisturizers combat dryness. Crow’s feet are smoothed, puffiness is reduced and skin is visibly lifted and brightened with every application.
Alternatives to Matrixyl 3000
As you can see, the anti-aging and anti-wrinkle efficacy of Matrixyl 3000 is very well known. But this single ingredient only contains two peptides, and there are numerous synthetic peptides that have been developed for topical application. You may find it beneficial to combine products with Matrixyl 3000 and other peptides products. Below are a few of our favorite products that contain other types of peptides to provide anti-aging benefits.
Carrot & Stick Repair Serum
This high-performance serum is designed to visibly lift, tighten, and firm as it helps defend against damaging free radicals. Hyaluronic acid and vitamin E deliver an instant boost of hydration.
A blend of synthesized growth factors encourages elasticity, cell turnover, and nutrient absorption to support revitalization. Seven plant-based neuropeptides enhance the skin’s structural integrity from the inside out, promoting smoother, more resilient-looking skin.
References: Wikipedia “Peptide”, Lpi.oregonstate.edu “Peptides and Skin Health”, MatrixylInside.com “Matrixyl® 3000 peptide restores skin’s metabolism of youth”, PaulasChoice.com “Tripeptide-1”
