Ingredient deep-dive

Matrixyl Synthe'6: Activating All Six Components of Collagen Production

What Is Matrixyl Synthe'6?

Matrixyl Synthe'6 is the third generation of the Matrixyl peptide family, following Matrixyl (Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4) and Matrixyl 3000. Its INCI name is Palmitoyl Tripeptide-38. The peptide chain is anchored to a palmitoyl (fatty acid) tail, which improves its ability to cross the lipid bilayer of the stratum corneum and reach the live cell layers below.

On the Repair & Release Cream ingredient panel, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-38 appears in the active mid-section alongside three other palmitoyl peptides — a stacking strategy that is uncommon in mass-market creams.

The "Six" in Synthe'6

Sederma's in-vitro testing showed that Palmitoyl Tripeptide-38 upregulated six structural matrix components:

• Collagen I — the dominant structural collagen
• Collagen III — the "youthful" collagen, which declines fastest with age
• Collagen IV — basement membrane support
• Fibronectin — cell adhesion and tissue scaffolding
• Hyaluronic acid — dermal hydration reservoir
• Laminin 5 — dermal-epidermal junction integrity

These data come from the manufacturer's own studies. Independent replication is limited, but the matrikine mechanism — peptide fragments signalling fibroblasts to rebuild the matrix — is well established in the broader literature.

Why It Matters After 50

Post-menopausal skin loses structural collagen rapidly — roughly 30% in the first five years after menopause. Topical peptides cannot reverse that decline on their own, but matrikine peptides like Matrixyl Synthe'6 give the dermis a consistent biochemical signal to keep producing matrix components. Combined with hydration support (squalane, hyaluronic acid) and barrier repair (shea butter), the net effect over 60–90 days is improved firmness and reduced sagging.

For the broader picture see our guide to anti-aging skincare after 50.

Realistic Outcomes

• Improved firmness and "bounce" after 8–12 weeks of consistent use.
• Best results when paired with expression-line peptides like SNAP-8 and Argireline.
• Will not deliver injectable-level volume restoration.

Related on South Beach Skincare Shop

• Peptides — the headline active
• SNAP-8 (Acetyl Octapeptide-3)
• Read our full Repair & Release Cream review