GHK vs Syn-Ake
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
- 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.
- Syn-Ake is a synthetic tripeptide that mimics waglerin-1, a peptide found in the venom of the Temple viper (Tropidolaemus wagleri). It acts as a reversible antagonist of muscular nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, temporarily reducing facial muscle contraction and smoothing dynamic wrinkles. Often called a 'synthetic Botox' in cosmetic marketing.
- Half-Life
- Extremely short as free peptide; tissue binding extends local effects
- Not applicable (topical; effect duration hours)
- Admin Route
- SubQ, Topical, Oral
- Topical
- Research
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- Typical Dose
- 100–500 mcg
- 0.01–0.1% (4–8 mg/g in clinical studies)
- Frequency
- Daily or 5x per week
- 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
- Reduces depth of dynamic wrinkles and expression lines
- Reversible muscle-relaxing effect on facial muscles
- Smooths forehead lines, crow's feet, and frown lines
- Non-invasive alternative to injectable neurotoxins
- Rapid onset relative to collagen-stimulating peptides
- Well-studied in in vitro and clinical cosmetic trials
- Side Effects
- Excellent safety profile (naturally occurring peptide)
- Rare: mild injection site reaction (SC)
- No significant adverse effects identified in research
- Generally very well-tolerated topically
- Rare skin sensitivity or contact dermatitis
- Theoretical neuromuscular effects at systemic doses (not relevant topically)
- Stacks With
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