Decapeptide-12 vs HGH Fragment 176-191
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
Skin & Cosmetic
Decapeptide-12Fat Loss & Metabolic
HGH Fragment 176-191- 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.
- HGH Fragment 176-191 (also known as AOD-9604) is a stabilized, modified fragment of the human growth hormone molecule corresponding to amino acids 176–191 with an addition of a tyrosine residue at the N-terminus. It retains HGH's fat-burning properties without the anabolic, diabetogenic, or IGF-1-stimulating effects.
- Half-Life
- Not applicable (topical)
- ~30 minutes
- Admin Route
- Topical
- SubQ
- Research
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- Typical Dose
- 5 ppm (0.0005%) concentration
- 250–500 mcg
- Frequency
- Twice daily (AM and PM)
- 1–3 times 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
- Selective fat burning without anabolic side effects
- Reduces visceral and subcutaneous fat
- No insulin resistance or blood glucose disruption
- Does not stimulate IGF-1
- May support cartilage and bone repair (at higher doses)
- No effect on growth or organ size
- Side Effects
- Generally very well-tolerated
- Rare mild irritation or sensitivity in some skin types
- Results may take several weeks to become visible
- Injection site irritation
- Temporary lethargy
- Headache (rare)
- Nausea (rare)
- Stacks With
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