Decapeptide-12 vs 5-Amino-1MQ
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
Skin & Cosmetic
Decapeptide-12Fat Loss & Metabolic
5-Amino-1MQ- Summary
- Decapeptide-12 is a synthetic 10-amino acid peptide developed for skin brightening and depigmentation. It selectively inhibits tyrosinase activity and downstream melanogenesis pathways, reducing hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and uneven skin tone without the irritation associated with hydroquinone.
- 5-Amino-1MQ is a small-molecule NNMT (Nicotinamide N-methyltransferase) inhibitor that raises intracellular NAD+ levels and promotes fat burning. It is notable for targeting adipose tissue directly, reducing fat cell size and number while increasing metabolic rate.
- Half-Life
- Not applicable (topical)
- Estimated 4–8 hours
- Admin Route
- Topical
- Oral
- Research
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- Typical Dose
- 5 ppm (0.0005%) concentration
- 50–100 mg
- Frequency
- Twice daily (AM and PM)
- Once to twice daily
- Key Benefits
- Reduces hyperpigmentation and dark spots
- Evens skin tone and improves radiance
- Inhibits post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
- Well-tolerated alternative to hydroquinone
- Effective for melasma and age spots
- Non-cytotoxic to melanocytes
- Raises intracellular NAD+ levels
- Directly targets adipose tissue for fat reduction
- Reduces fat cell size and differentiation
- Increases basal metabolic rate
- SIRT1 activation for metabolic regulation
- No stimulant cardiovascular side effects
- Synergistic with intermittent fasting and caloric restriction
- May have anti-aging metabolic benefits
- Side Effects
- Generally very well-tolerated
- Rare mild irritation or sensitivity in some skin types
- Results may take several weeks to become visible
- Generally well-tolerated in available studies
- Mild GI discomfort (rare)
- Limited long-term human data
- Stacks With
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