GHK-Cu (Copper Peptide) vs Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1
A detailed comparison to help you understand the differences and choose the right peptide for your research goals.
GHK-Cu (Copper Peptide)
GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring copper peptide found in human plasma, saliva, and urine. It plays important roles in wound healing, tissue repair, and has shown anti-aging properties in research.
Full details →Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1
Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 (Pal-GHK) is a lipopeptide that stimulates collagen production. It's one of two peptides in the Matrixyl 3000 complex, working synergistically with Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7.
Full details →Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aspect | GHK-Cu (Copper Peptide) | Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | Attracts immune cells and fibroblasts to wound sites, stimulates collagen and glycosaminoglycan synthesis, promotes angiogenesis, and has antioxidant effects. Modulates gene expression related to tissue repair. | Mimics the skin's own mechanism for producing collagen by acting as a messenger peptide that signals fibroblasts to produce more collagen and other extracellular matrix components. |
| Typical Dosage | Topical: Applied as serum or cream 1-2 times daily. Injectable: 1-2mg daily for research purposes. Microneedling protocols often use 0.5-1%. | Topical: Typically 2-4% in serums, often combined with Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 as Matrixyl 3000. |
| Administration | Most commonly used topically for skin applications. Can be injected subcutaneously for systemic effects. Often combined with microneedling for enhanced skin penetration. | Topical application 1-2 times daily. The palmitoyl group enhances skin penetration compared to non-lipidated versions. |
| Side Effects | Topical use is generally well-tolerated. May cause temporary skin irritation or redness in sensitive individuals. Injectable use may cause injection site reactions. | Very well-tolerated. Suitable for most skin types including sensitive skin. |
| Best For |
What They Have in Common
Both GHK-Cu (Copper Peptide) and Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 are commonly used for: