Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17 (N-Myristoyl Penta-Amino Acid
Complex)

The Problem (2000-2004)

The Latisse Trap

Why some women couldn't use the only FDA-approved lash product

For years, women who wanted thicker, fuller eyelashes had only one choice: Latisse. This prescription medicine worked by using a hormone-like ingredient called bimatoprost. But many women got bad side effects. Some developed darker skin around their eyes. Others got red, itchy eyes. Many women didn't want to use a prescription product with hormone effects just to have prettier lashes. Scientists knew there had to be a better way.

The Quest (2004-2007)

Finding the Right Message

How researchers learned to talk to hair cells

Scientists began studying how to send chemical messages to hair cells without using hormones. They learned that cells have special 'listening posts' on their surface that respond to specific peptides (short chains of amino acids). The goal was simple: find a peptide message that tells hair cells to make more keratin. Researchers tested hundreds of combinations. They needed something safe, effective, and small enough to pass through skin. After three years of testing, they found it: myristoyl pentapeptide-17.

The Breakthrough (2007-2010)

The Two-Week Wonder

When cosmetic companies realize the peptide works

Testing showed something amazing: women using myristoyl pentapeptide-17 saw results in just two weeks. Their lashes looked thicker and longer. The side effects disappeared completely compared to prescription products. Cosmetic companies noticed. Soon, dozens of eyelash serums and eyebrow products came out using this peptide. Some combined it with myristoyl hexapeptide-16 (a similar peptide) for even better results. The peptide market exploded. Women finally had a safe, effective way to grow their own lashes.

The Crisis (2010-2015)

Quality Control Questions

When counterfeit products flood the market

With so much money in the lash serum business, problems emerged. Some cheap knock-off products claimed to have the peptide but didn't really work. Counterfeit serums sold online contained little to no actual myristoyl pentapeptide-17. Women complained that cheap products didn't grow their lashes. Some companies used watered-down versions or incorrect formulas. This hurt people's trust in the real thing. Scientists had to prove which products actually contained real, active peptide. Testing labs worked overtime to verify what was real.

The Resolution (2015-Present)

Standard of Excellence

How the peptide became trusted worldwide

The cosmetic industry established standards for myristoyl pentapeptide-17 products. Companies now test peptide concentration and purity before selling. Scientists published studies showing exactly how the peptide works in hair cells. Dermatologists started recommending it as a safe alternative to prescription products. Today, this peptide is found in hundreds of lash and eyebrow products worldwide. Women trust it because it delivers on its promise: thicker, stronger, longer lashes in two weeks without the side effects of hormonal products. The peptide has become the gold standard for peptide-based lash growth.