Myristoyl Hexapeptide-16

Overview

Myristoyl Hexapeptide-16 is a synthetic lipopeptide in which myristic acid (C14 fatty acid) is conjugated to a six-amino-acid sequence (Myr-LKKALK). It was developed by Symrise as SymPeptide 235EL, designed as a companion active to Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17 for comprehensive eyelash, eyebrow, and hair enhancement formulations.

Mironova Labs supplies Myristoyl Hexapeptide-16 as a cosmetic active, produced in partnership with a specialized peptide synthesis facility, for integration into premium hair enhancement serums and scalp treatments.

Mechanism of Action

• Companion peptide activity — Designed to work alongside Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17, contributing to multi-target follicular support. Clinical eyelash studies using the peptide pair show improvements in lash length, density, and thickness.
• Penetration enhancement via myristoylation — The C14 lipid chain partitions the peptide into sebum and follicular lipids, improving delivery compared to the unconjugated peptide sequence. This is a well-established delivery strategy for cosmetic lipopeptides.
• Growth phase support — The combined peptide pair has shown visible eyelash growth in cosmetic trials, suggesting support for the active growth phase. Specific biochemical pathways for this hexapeptide have not been independently characterized in published literature.

Formulation Notes

• Functional at low concentrations (1–20 ppm); typical leave-on scalp serum use is 5–10 ppm
• Slightly less water-soluble than Biotinoyl Tripeptide-1 due to the lipid tail; warm aqueous base (40°C) aids dissolution
• Stable at pH 5.0–7.0
• Complements Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17 (keratin synthesis) and Biotinoyl Tripeptide-1 (ECM support) in multi-peptide hair serums
• Suitable for leave-on scalp serums, hair density treatments, and targeted follicle support serums

Regulatory Information

Myristoyl Hexapeptide-16 is listed in INCI as MYRISTOYL HEXAPEPTIDE-16. Formulators are responsible for compliance with applicable cosmetic regulations in their markets.