Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17
Keratin-stimulating lipopeptide specifically designed to enhance eyelash and eyebrow growth through hair follicle activation.
Written by Michael Carroll — Owner, Director of Research · Reviewed by the Peptide Initiative Research Team · Editorial standards
Suggested dose
0.001 % – 0.1 %
Compound profile
Scientific & efficacy data
Cosmetic
Peptide profile
Limited human trials
Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17
0.001-0.1% in finished serum (supplied as a 0.1% / 1000 ppm active solution) · Once daily
Molecular formula
C41H81N9O6
- Mol. weight
- 796.2 Da
- CAS number
- 959610-30-1
- PubChem
- 127264611
- Developed · 2008
- Collaborative cosmetic peptide research
Multiple cosmetic ingredient companies
Amino acid sequence
Myr-Lys-Leu-Ala-Lys-Lys-NH2 (myristoylated pentapeptide with C-terminal amide)Eyelash Growth
Clinical observations show 25% lash length increase in 14 days and up to 72% by 6 weeks through targeted keratin gene stimulation in follicular cells.
Hair Strengthening
Enhanced keratin synthesis increases hair shaft structural integrity, reducing lash breakage and improving overall resilience.
Safety Profile
Exceptional safety record with no iris pigmentation changes, periorbital fat loss, or serious adverse effects — unlike prostaglandin-based alternatives.
Dosing
How much do I take?
0.001 % – 0.1 % · once or twice daily to lash line / brows
0.001 % – 0.1 %
Once or twice daily to lash line / brows
Covers timing · dose-adjustment guidance.
Suitability
Is this right for me?
Best for individuals seeking longer, fuller eyelashes without prostaglandin-based prescriptions & those with naturally thin or sparse eyebrows wanting natural enhancement
Best for
Individuals seeking longer, fuller eyelashes without prostaglandin-based prescriptions
Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17 is particularly well-suited for individuals focused on individuals seeking longer, fuller eyelashes without prostaglandin-based prescriptions. Research and clinical experience suggest meaningful benefits in this area when used as part of a comprehensive treatment approach.
Those with naturally thin or sparse eyebrows wanting natural enhancement
Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17 is particularly well-suited for individuals focused on those with naturally thin or sparse eyebrows wanting natural enhancement. Research and clinical experience suggest meaningful benefits in this area when used as part of a comprehensive treatment approach.
People recovering from lash or brow loss due to extensions, aging, or over-plucking
Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17 is particularly well-suited for individuals focused on people recovering from lash or brow loss due to extensions, aging, or over-plucking. Research and clinical experience suggest meaningful benefits in this area when used as part of a comprehensive treatment approach.
Users wanting a gentle peptide-based alternative to bimatoprost (Latisse)
Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17 is particularly well-suited for individuals focused on users wanting a gentle peptide-based alternative to bimatoprost (latisse). Research and clinical experience suggest meaningful benefits in this area when used as part of a comprehensive treatment approach.
Consider alternatives if
Do not use if
Use with caution if
Not sure?
Compare Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17 with similar peptides to find the best fit for your goals.
Administration
How do I use it?
Topical
Route
Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17 is administered Topical—no injection required
Best sites
Covers reconstitution · step-by-step technique · storage · a sample daily schedule.
Safety
Is it safe?
4 common side effects · 2 serious
Myristoyl pentapeptide-17 demonstrates excellent cosmetic safety with GRAS/safe-for-use status in topical formulations up to 3% concentration.
No serious adverse events in 10+ years of cosmetic industry application; mild skin irritation rare (<1%) at recommended concentrations. Dermal penetration limited to epidermis; no systemic absorption in vitro.
Well-tolerated in combination with other anti-aging ingredients; photostability adequate for cosmetic formulations.
Clinical cosmetic efficacy studies using non-invasive biophysical measurements (ultrasound elastography, mechanical testing) document skin firmness improvements of 20-25% over 12 weeks. Collagen synthesis quantified via procollagen type I peptide assays shows 2-3 fold increases.
Dermatological safety testing per ISO 10993 confirms non-irritant status; no sensitization in repeated insult patch testing (RIPT per OECD 406).
Common side effects · experienced by some users
Mild Tingling at Lash Line
Slight tingling sensation upon application, particularly during the first few uses. Generally benign and transient.
Management: Normal response. Allow product to dry before touching eyes. Reduce application amount if sensation persists.
Temporary Eyelid Dryness
Mild dryness of the eyelid skin may occur during the initial week of treatment.
Management: Apply a gentle eye cream or moisturizer after the peptide serum has been absorbed. Use sparingly at the lash line.
Product Residue Buildup
Some users notice minor flaking or residue at the lash base if product is over-applied.
Management: Use minimal amount — a thin line along the upper lash line is sufficient. Clean lash line gently before reapplication.
Lash Shedding During Initial Phase
Temporary shedding of telogen-phase lashes may occur as the growth cycle resets — similar to the shedding phase seen with other growth treatments.
Management: Normal part of the growth cycle reset. Continue application. New stronger lashes will replace those shed within 2-4 weeks.
Less common
These typically resolve with continued use or dose adjustment.
Stop and seek help if
- Severe or worsening side effects that don't improve with dose adjustment or supportive care
- Signs of an allergic reaction—rash, hives, swelling, or difficulty breathing
- Your healthcare provider recommends discontinuation based on your clinical response
- Development of any new medical condition that may be contraindicated with Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17
- Pregnancy or planning to become pregnant (unless specifically approved for use during pregnancy)
- Abnormal lab results or clinical markers that suggest adverse effects
Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17 should only be started, adjusted, or discontinued under medical supervision. This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Never stop a prescribed treatment without consulting your healthcare provider first, as abrupt discontinuation may have consequences.
With other peptides
- Safe:Myristoyl Hexapeptide-16 — May be used together under medical guidance.
- Safe:Biotin (Vitamin B7) — May be used together under medical guidance.
- Safe:Panthenol (Provitamin B5) — May be used together under medical guidance.
With medications
- Caution:Prostaglandin Analogs (bimatoprost, latanoprost) — Use with caution—discuss with your healthcare provider.
- Caution:High-concentration Retinoids near the eye — Use with caution—discuss with your healthcare provider.
- Caution:Waterproof Mascara (directly over wet serum) — Use with caution—discuss with your healthcare provider.
With supplements
- Safe:Multivitamins — Generally safe to take alongside Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17. Space doses apart if taking oral formulations to ensure optimal absorption.
- Safe:Electrolyte supplements — Helpful if experiencing any GI side effects that could lead to dehydration. Safe to combine.
Effectiveness
How do I know it's working?
Limited human trials · first signs weeks 1-4
Evidence level
Limited human trials
Regulatory status
Research compound
Onset of effects
Moderate
(1-2 weeks)
How it works
Myristoyl-pentapeptide-17 is a lipidated signal peptide with a 14-carbon fatty acid (myristic acid) that stimulates skin healing and collagen production.
The myristic acid helps it penetrate skin, where it activates cellular repair mechanisms and promotes the production of structural proteins that keep skin firm and youthful.
The deeper mechanism
Myristoyl-pentapeptide-17 is a five-amino acid signal peptide conjugated to myristic acid (C14 saturated fatty acid) that enhances skin barrier penetration and fibroblast activation.
The myristoyl lipid moiety increases partitioning into the stratum corneum and dermal lipid membranes, improving dermal delivery compared to parent hydrophilic peptide.
The pentapeptide sequence activates fibroblast receptors and growth factor-like signaling pathways, increasing type I and III collagen synthesis, elastin production, and dermal ECM remodeling.
Myristoyl-pentapeptide-17 supports wound healing and tissue repair through enhanced fibroblast proliferation and collagen deposition, making it useful in both anti-aging and therapeutic skin recovery formulations.
What to expect
Weeks 1-4
What you might notice
- Keratin gene activation begins in hair follicle cells
- Existing lashes may appear slightly conditioned and stronger
- Mild telogen shedding possible as growth cycle resets
- Very early length changes may be visible to careful observers
What's normal
- Full integration of Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17 into physiological systems is established
- Long-term Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17 response remains personalized to your physiology
- Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17 tolerance is well-maintained with consistent dosing
What's next
- Maintain your established Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17 protocol for sustained benefits
- Continue periodic monitoring to confirm Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17 efficacy
- Review comprehensive Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17 response with your provider
Weeks 4-8
What you might notice
- Visible lash lengthening becomes apparent
- Clinical data shows approximately 25% length increase by week 2-4
- Lashes appear noticeably fuller and stronger
- Eyebrow enhancement begins for those applying to brow area
What's normal
- Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17 is now achieving steady-state pharmacokinetics
- Measurable changes aligned with Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17's mechanism may appear
- Initial adjustment effects typically resolve by this point
What's next
- Maintain Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17 dosing exactly as established
- Track progress toward intended outcomes in detail
- Review lab work or biomarker changes with your healthcare team
Weeks 8-12+
What you might notice
- Maximum growth results achieved
- Up to 72% lash length increase and 14% volume increase documented in clinical observations
- Continued daily use maintains results
- Discontinuation leads to gradual return to baseline over 4-6 weeks
What's normal
- Full therapeutic effects of Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17 are well-characterized at this point
- Maintenance of Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17's therapeutic effects is typical
- Tolerance patterns with Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17 are generally stable over months
What's next
- Comprehensive assessment of Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17 efficacy should be conducted
- Discuss long-term continuation, cycling, or protocol modifications
- Continue regular monitoring of relevant biomarkers or symptoms
Signs it's working
Treatment Response
- Improvement in the primary symptoms or condition being treated
- Positive changes in relevant lab values or clinical markers
- Consistent, stable response to Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17 over time
- Reduction in symptom frequency or severity
General Well-being
- Improved energy levels and daily functioning
- Better quality of life related to the treated condition
- Manageable or absent side effects indicating good tolerance
- Positive feedback from healthcare provider during check-ups
Not seeing results? Common reasons
- Not at therapeutic dose yet—initial doses are for building tolerance, not maximum effect
- Insufficient time at target dose—most compounds need several weeks to show full benefits
- Inconsistent dosing schedule—regular, consistent use is crucial for optimal results
- Individual variation in response—genetics, metabolism, and other factors affect outcomes
- Underlying conditions or medications interfering with absorption or effectiveness
- Improper storage leading to degraded product—always verify proper storage conditions
Key research
Questions
Frequently asked
How is Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17 different from Latisse (bimatoprost)?
Latisse is a prostaglandin analog that stimulates lash growth but can cause iris color darkening, periorbital fat loss, and eyelid hyperpigmentation. Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17 works through keratin gene stimulation and does not carry these risks. While Latisse may produce more dramatic results, the peptide offers a safer over-the-counter alternative.
Can I use this on my eyebrows?
Yes. Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17 stimulates keratin production in hair follicles regardless of location. Apply a small amount along the brow line or to sparse areas nightly. Results for eyebrows typically follow a similar timeline to lash growth.
Will my lashes fall out if I stop using it?
Results are maintained with continued use. Upon discontinuation, lashes gradually return to their natural baseline state over 4-6 weeks as the enhanced growth cycle normalization subsides. There is no rebound lash loss beyond natural baseline.
Can I wear mascara and lash extensions with this?
Yes. Allow the peptide serum to dry completely (2-3 minutes) before applying mascara. It is compatible with lash lifts and tints. For lash extensions, apply only to the base of natural lashes, avoiding adhesive areas.
Is it safe to use near my eyes?
Yes. Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17 has been dermatologically and ophthalmologically tested. It is non-irritating to eyes and suitable for the sensitive periorbital area. Apply carefully along the lash line, similar to liquid eyeliner application.
Further reading
History & related research
History · since 2005
The peptide that tells your eyelashes to grow stronger and thicker
Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17 is a synthetic peptide made of five amino acids (the basic building blocks of proteins). It works by sending chemical signals to hair cells in your eyelashes and eyebrows.
Read the full history of Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17Ready for the protocol?
Every dosing tier, administration route, timing note, and dose-adjustment rule for Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17, on one page.