Best Peptides for Skin & Hair

Melanotan II is a synthetic version of alpha-MSH, a natural hormone involved in skin pigmentation. It activates hormone receptors involved in skin color and sexual function, and is being studied for both tanning and sexual health applications.

Melanotan 1 (Afamelanotide) is a synthetic version of the natural skin-darkening hormone alpha-MSH. It is FDA-approved as Scenesse, a subcutaneous implant for treating EPP, a rare genetic condition causing extreme sun sensitivity. It is also commonly used via injection or nasal spray for tanning.

GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring peptide-copper complex found in human blood, saliva, and urine. It is being studied primarily for wound healing, skin regeneration, and anti-aging applications, and is available in topical formulations.

SNAP-8 is an eight-amino-acid peptide used in cosmetic skincare to reduce wrinkles. It works by partially blocking nerve-to-muscle signaling in a way similar to botulinum toxin but through a different mechanism. It is used primarily in topical formulations.

Argireline is a synthetic six-amino-acid peptide widely used in cosmetic skincare as a topical alternative to botulinum toxin injections. It works by partially blocking the nerve signaling pathway involved in muscle contractions, reducing the intensity of facial movements and softening expression lines around the eyes and forehead.

Matrixyl is a fat-soluble signal peptide used in cosmetic skincare to boost collagen production. It works by mimicking collagen breakdown signals, prompting skin cells to produce more collagen. It is one of the most clinically validated anti-wrinkle peptides and is found primarily in topical products.

AHK-Cu (Copper Tripeptide-3) is a synthetic copper peptide designed specifically to target hair follicle cells. Unlike the naturally occurring GHK-Cu, AHK-Cu was engineered to stimulate hair growth by extending the active growth phase of the hair cycle and increasing follicle cell activity. It is applied topically to the scalp.