GHK vs Syn-Coll
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-Coll is a palmitoylated tripeptide (Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5) that mimics thrombospondin-1 to activate TGF-beta, the primary growth factor driving collagen synthesis in the dermis. It is one of the most mechanistically direct collagen-stimulating peptides in cosmetic formulations.
- Half-Life
- Extremely short as free peptide; tissue binding extends local effects
- Extended (lipid depot in stratum corneum)
- Admin Route
- SubQ, Topical, Oral
- Topical
- Research
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- Typical Dose
- 100–500 mcg
- 0.005-0.05% in formulation
- Frequency
- Daily or 5x per week
- Once or 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
- Directly activates TGF-beta for potent collagen synthesis stimulation
- Increases dermal thickness and firmness
- Reduces depth of wrinkles and fine lines
- Improves skin elasticity
- Clinically validated in collagen induction studies
- Complementary to retinoids or vitamin C
- Side Effects
- Excellent safety profile (naturally occurring peptide)
- Rare: mild injection site reaction (SC)
- No significant adverse effects identified in research
- Generally well-tolerated
- Rare mild irritation at high concentrations
- Possible sensitivity in individuals with inflammatory skin conditions
- Stacks With
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