Decapeptide-12 vs AICAR
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
Skin & Cosmetic
Decapeptide-12Anti-Aging & LongevityFat Loss & Metabolic
AICAR- 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.
- AICAR is a cell-permeable AMP analog that activates AMPK (AMP-activated protein kinase) — the master metabolic switch that triggers fat burning, mitochondrial biogenesis, and adaptations normally only achieved through exercise. It has been called the 'exercise in a pill' compound.
- Half-Life
- Not applicable (topical)
- ~2–3 hours
- Admin Route
- Topical
- SubQ, IV
- Research
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- Typical Dose
- 5 ppm (0.0005%) concentration
- 25–50 mg
- Frequency
- Twice daily (AM and PM)
- 3–5 times per week
- 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
- AMPK activation mimics aerobic exercise adaptations
- Increased fat oxidation and endurance
- Mitochondrial biogenesis (PGC-1alpha)
- Improved insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism
- Anti-inflammatory effects
- Potential cardiac protection during ischemia
- Synergistic with actual exercise training
- Reduces hepatic glucose production
- Side Effects
- Generally very well-tolerated
- Rare mild irritation or sensitivity in some skin types
- Results may take several weeks to become visible
- Hypoglycemia risk
- Lactic acidosis at high doses (animal data)
- Injection site irritation
- Stacks With
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