Skin Health Peptides

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.

Glutathione is a three-amino-acid peptide made naturally in every cell from glutamate, cysteine, and glycine. It neutralizes damaging molecules, supports mitochondrial energy production, and helps the liver process toxins. Levels fall with age and chronic illness, making it a widely studied target for antioxidant and anti-aging research.

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.

GHK is a naturally occurring three-amino-acid peptide found in human blood, saliva, and urine, with levels that decline with age. Separate from its copper-bound form (GHK-Cu), free GHK is being studied for its ability to influence gene activity patterns linked to tissue repair, inflammation reduction, and regeneration.

KPV is a naturally occurring three-amino-acid peptide derived from alpha-MSH, a hormone involved in inflammation control. Research focuses on its strong anti-inflammatory properties, particularly in inflammatory bowel disease and skin conditions.

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.