Myristoyl Hexapeptide-23

Research Of Myristoyl Hexapeptide-23

The modified form of this peptide is created through covalent bonding; a hexapeptide sequence is attached to myristic acid (tetradecanoic acid). The myristoyl moiety itself serves as a hydrophobic lipid chain, increasing the overall hydrophobicity of the peptide.

Skin penetration and subsequent absorption are directly promoted by this property. Engineering the peptide to target certain skin concerns – acne being the prime example, along with all related inflammatory conditions from microbial infections – is part of its design.

Chemically classified as an antimicrobial peptide, the additional anti-inflammatory and ‘repairing’ functions it exhibits go beyond simple bacterial killing.

Myristoyl Hexapeptide-23 demonstrates said broad spectrum activity, P. acnes being one of the most effectively inhibited bacteria.

Propionibacterium acnes lives deep within hair follicles and pores, surface independent, relying on sebum, small cellular debris and near constant metabolic byproducts of the surrounding skin as both an energy source and various nutrients.

Overactive sebaceous glands lead to increased (or at least temporarily uncontrolled) production of sebum; follicle blockage follows. The bacterium then proliferates, secreting numerous proteins – breaking down sebum and all that follows, physically and metabolically disrupting the integrity of the follicle wall.

Rapid proliferation leads to all the previously mentioned inflammatory responses; folliculitis, common acne, etc.

Currently Myristoyl Hexapeptide-23 is used in skincare products for oily, acne-prone skin.

Publicly available data to support or refute its efficacy in treating acne and all related conditions, however, is still lacking.