GHK vs Ipamorelin
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
Skin & CosmeticAnti-Aging & Longevity
GHKGrowth Hormone Peptides
Ipamorelin- Summary
- GHK is the natural tripeptide (Gly-His-Lys) released from human albumin that activates tissue remodeling, collagen synthesis, and anti-aging gene expression. The copper-free form is the biological signaling molecule; it chelates copper in tissue to form GHK-Cu but also has independent biological activity.
- Ipamorelin is a selective GHRP (growth hormone releasing peptide) and one of the cleanest GH secretagogues available. It selectively stimulates GH release without significantly raising cortisol, prolactin, or appetite — making it ideal for long-term use and anti-aging protocols.
- Half-Life
- Extremely short as free peptide; tissue binding extends local effects
- 2 hours
- Admin Route
- SubQ, Topical, Oral
- SubQ
- Research
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- Typical Dose
- 100–500 mcg
- 100–300 mcg
- Frequency
- Daily or 5x per week
- Once to twice daily
- Key Benefits
- Stimulates collagen and extracellular matrix synthesis
- Activates tissue repair gene expression programs
- Anti-aging: reverses 57% of age-related gene changes
- Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory
- Wound healing and skin barrier repair
- Improves skin laxity, texture, and radiance
- Neuroprotective (stimulates NGF, BDNF)
- Anti-fibrotic in liver and lung models
- Increases lean muscle mass
- Enhances fat loss
- Improves recovery time
- Strengthens bones and joints
- Better sleep quality and REM sleep
- Enhanced skin elasticity
- Minimal impact on hunger or cortisol
- No cortisol or prolactin spike
- Clean GH release suitable for long-term protocols
- Side Effects
- Excellent safety profile (naturally occurring peptide)
- Rare: mild injection site reaction (SC)
- No significant adverse effects identified in research
- Injection site irritation
- Temporary water retention (mild)
- Possible hunger increase (milder than GHRP-6)
- Numbness or tingling in extremities (rare)
- Stacks With
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