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Cosmetic & Topical

Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17

Cosmetic lipopeptide in lash and brow serums that supports keratin production; gentle but slower and weaker than prescription bimatoprost.

Cosmetic ingredientEvidence level 2 of 5: Animal data, minimal humanAlso: Myristoyl-KLAKK, SymPeptide 226EL, Lash peptide, Myristyl peptide

Overview

Myristoyl pentapeptide-17 is a short peptide attached to myristic acid, a fatty acid that helps it penetrate the skin and hair follicle. Supplier studies indicate it switches on keratin genes in follicle cells, the structural protein that makes up lashes and brows. It is the active ingredient in many over-the-counter lash and brow serums, where small consumer studies report longer, fuller-looking lashes after 4–12 weeks of nightly use. Unlike prescription bimatoprost, it is not expected to darken the iris or eyelid skin, though it is also less potent. Gains fade if use stops. Eye irritation is the main concern, so it should be applied to the lash line, not into the eye.

Classification
Synthetic lipopeptide (myristic acid–conjugated pentapeptide Lys-Leu-Ala-Lys-Lys)
Route
Topical (lash line, brows, face)
Half-life
Not well established

Mechanism of action

Primary targetKeratin gene expression in hair follicle cells
  1. Lipid-assisted penetrationMyristoyl tail carries the peptide into skin and follicle.
  2. Follicle cell signalingPeptide interacts with keratinocytes in the hair bulb.
  3. Keratin gene upregulationIncreases expression of hair keratin genes.
  4. Hair shaft reinforcementThicker, stronger lash and brow fibers over weeks.
Downstream effects
  • Longer, fuller lashes
  • Denser brows
  • No iris darkening

Researched for

  • Eyelash enhancement
  • Eyebrow density
  • Anti-aging skincare (as part of peptide blends)

Research notes

  • Supplier in vitro data show keratin gene upregulation in follicle keratinocytes.
  • Small open-label consumer studies report visible lash length and volume gains at 2–12 weeks.
  • No head-to-head trial versus bimatoprost; expected to be less effective but with fewer pigmentary effects.
  • Benefits reverse after discontinuation.

Reported side effects

  • Eye irritation or itching
  • Eyelid redness or contact dermatitis
  • Dry eye symptoms

Contraindications & cautions

  • Active blepharitis, conjunctivitis or eye infection
  • Recent eye surgery
  • Known hypersensitivity to formulation

Lab monitoring

  • No bloodwork required
  • Baseline photography of lash/brow area

Dosing and pricing for Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17

Dosing references and compound pricing are available to established patients in the secure portal after a medical evaluation.

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