ARA-290 vs Matrixyl
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
- Summary
- ARA-290 is a synthetic 11-amino acid peptide derived from the helix B region of erythropoietin (EPO). Unlike EPO, it selectively activates the innate repair receptor (IRR) without stimulating hematopoiesis, providing tissue protection, anti-inflammation, and neuropathy relief.
- Matrixyl is the most widely used collagen-stimulating cosmetic peptide. As a matrikine — a fragment of type I procollagen — it signals skin cells to synthesize new collagen, elastin, and fibronectin, reducing wrinkle depth and improving skin firmness and elasticity.
- Half-Life
- ~2–4 hours (SC administration)
- N/A — topical; sustained signaling effects on fibroblasts persist beyond single application
- Admin Route
- SubQ
- Topical
- Research
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- Typical Dose
- 4 mg (fixed dose)
- 3–8% concentration
- Frequency
- Once daily
- Once or twice daily
- Key Benefits
- Reduces neuropathic pain from small fiber neuropathy
- Anti-inflammatory without immune suppression
- Tissue protection after ischemia/reperfusion injury
- Promotes nerve fiber regeneration
- Improves symptoms of sarcoidosis-associated neuropathy
- May reduce insulin resistance and improve metabolic health
- Shown to improve autonomic neuropathy symptoms
- Stimulates collagen I, III, and IV synthesis
- Increases fibronectin and glycosaminoglycan production
- Reduces wrinkle depth and length by 27–68% (studies)
- Improves skin firmness and elasticity
- Reduces dark circles and undereye bags
- Synergistic with retinol, vitamin C, and growth factors
- Suitable for all skin types including sensitive
- Well-studied with published clinical data
- Side Effects
- Injection site reactions
- Mild fatigue at initiation
- Transient warm sensation post-injection
- Rare: mild headache
- Exceptional safety profile
- Non-irritating, suitable for sensitive skin
- No known adverse effects at cosmetic concentrations
- Stacks With
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