| Dimension | Scoring Notes | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Study Design | Multiple human split-face and controlled RCTs for wrinkle reduction and expression line softening. Lipotec-sponsored trials are the primary evidence base. No Phase III pharmaceutical trials — cosmeceutical methodology standard. Single RCT score appropriate given lack of independent Phase III. |
20 / 25 |
| Sample Size | Individual trials typically 20–60 participants — standard for cosmeceutical RCTs but small by pharmaceutical standards. Cumulative sample across published trials is in the low hundreds. |
8 / 20 |
| Replication | Some independent replication beyond Lipotec-funded studies exists, but a meaningful portion of the evidence base originates from the developer or developer-affiliated researchers. Less independent replication than Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1. |
8 / 20 |
| Journal Impact Factor | Published primarily in International Journal of Cosmetic Science (IF ~2), Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology (IF ~2–3), and Skin Pharmacology and Physiology. Mid-to-low tier specialty journals consistent with cosmeceutical research norms. |
4 / 15 |
| Funding Independence | Lipotec (developer, now Lubrizol) funded or co-authored the majority of primary trials. Independent dermatology-led replication is limited. Developer funding dominance is the key evidence quality constraint here. |
3 / 10 |
| Population Diversity | Studies predominantly female, largely European and Asian cohorts. Moderate diversity within cosmeceutical trial norms — similar profile to Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1. |
3 / 5 |
| Researcher h-Index | Lead researchers in cosmeceutical peptide space (Blanes-Mira, Gorouhi) have moderate academic profiles not prominent in broader biomedical databases. Consistent with category peers. |
2 / 5 |