Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 vs SHLP2
A detailed comparison to help you understand the differences and choose the right peptide for your research goals.
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 →SHLP2
SHLP2 (Small Humanin-Like Peptide 2) is a mitochondrial-derived peptide similar to humanin. It has shown insulin-sensitizing and cytoprotective effects in research, with potential metabolic benefits.
Full details →Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aspect | Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 | SHLP2 |
|---|---|---|
| Dose Range | 500 mcg–2 mg | 1 mg–5 mg |
| Frequency | 2x daily | 1x daily |
| Cycle Length | 4–12 weeks | 4–8 weeks |
| Route | topical | subcutaneous |
| Mechanism | 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. | Enhances insulin sensitivity and glucose uptake. Provides cytoprotective effects similar to humanin. May act through similar but distinct receptor pathways. |
| Typical Dosage | Topical: Typically 2-4% in serums, often combined with Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 as Matrixyl 3000. | Research compound with doses in the microgram to low milligram range studied in animal models. Human dosing not established. |
| Administration | Topical application 1-2 times daily. The palmitoyl group enhances skin penetration compared to non-lipidated versions. | Subcutaneous or intraperitoneal injection in research settings. Various SHLP analogs (1-6) have different properties. |
| Side Effects | Very well-tolerated. Suitable for most skin types including sensitive skin. | Limited data. Animal studies suggest good tolerability. May affect glucose metabolism. |
| Best For |
What They Have in Common
Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, SHLP2 are both commonly used for:
Key Differences
Unique to Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1:
Unique to SHLP2:
Which Has Stronger Evidence?
- Anti-Aging & Longevity: Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 has stronger research support.
| Goal | Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 | SHLP2 |
|---|---|---|
| Anti-Aging & Longevity | medium | low |
Key Studies
SHLP2
- Mitochondrial Peptide SHLP2 Limits Poly(I: C)-Induced Alveolar Epithelial Injury by Modulating Redox, Apoptotic, Inflammatory, and Inflammasome Responses.
Cytotechnology, 2026
- SHLP2 restores pre-osteoblastic cells against oxidative stress-induced inflammaging.
Scientific reports, 2025
- SHLP2 alleviates allergic asthma by inhibiting ETV5/GSDMD signaling pathway-mediated pyroptosis.
Cellular signalling, 2025
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