Science
Mechanism of Action
This synthetic lipo-peptide operates primarily by stimulating specific keratin genes, including Keratin 3, 19, HB1, HB2, HB4, and HB5. By up-regulating these genes, it boosts the production of keratin, a crucial structural protein for hair, nails, and the skin's outermost layer, thereby fostering hair growth and density. It additionally influences the secretion of hair follicle growth factors to encourage the formation of new hair follicle cells. Beyond its role in keratin synthesis, Myristoyl Hexapeptide-16 offers moisture-retaining properties, exhibits anti-aging and anti-inflammatory actions, and enhances overall skin resilience for a smoother, calmer appearance. Its unique attachment to the oil-soluble myristic acid is thought to optimize its penetration and bioavailability.
Research
Clinical Evidence
Medium confidenceN/A
Key findings
- 01 In vitro studies on normal human epidermal keratinocytes showed significant up-regulation of keratin gene expression within 24 hours.
- 02 An in vivo study on 15 subjects reported a 25% increase in eyelash thickness and a reduction in hair loss.
- 03 When formulated at 0.3% into a water-in-oil scalp emulsion, 89% of users experienced less hair accumulation on brushes/pillows, and 76% noted improved scalp texture without irritation.
- 04 At 0.4% in a scalp serum (with other ingredients), 83% of users observed noticeably less hair in the shower drain, and 71% reported a calmer, smoother scalp.
- 05 A 90-day, open-label study on 29 subjects using a polygrowth factor serum (containing Hexapeptide-16) demonstrated significant improvements in eyelash length (10.52%), volume (9.3%), luster (11.43%), thickness (35%), and curl (50.83%) compared to baseline, with no adverse events.
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
Myristoyl Hexapeptide-16 maintains stability within a pH range of 3.5 to 6.5. It integrates easily into cosmetic formulations when temperatures are kept below 40°C, with higher temperatures to be avoided. Optimal delivery is achieved through vehicles such as caprylic/capric triglyceride blends or squalane-based emulsions, which emulate natural sebum for enhanced transdermal transport.
Conflicts
- Excessive alcohol concentrations (above 10%) can denature the ingredient's lipid tail, potentially hindering its ability to anchor effectively into keratinocyte lipid bilayers.
Safety
Safety Profile
Myristoyl Hexapeptide-16 has not undergone specific safety assessments by major regulatory bodies such as the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR), Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS), or Food and Drug Administration (FDA). While CIR has reviewed related peptides, this specific ingredient lacks dedicated reports in available databases.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
Myristoyl Hexapeptide-16 is a valuable active for formulations targeting hair growth, density, and anti-aging benefits, backed by human clinical data, though comprehensive safety review by regulatory bodies is still pending.
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