GHK vs Vialox
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.
- Vialox is a synthetic pentapeptide that mimics the activity of conotoxin from cone snails, acting as an antagonist of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors at the neuromuscular junction. Similar to Syn-Ake but derived from cone snail venom biochemistry, it reduces facial muscle contraction to smooth expression wrinkles.
- 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
- 0.005-0.05% in formulation
- 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 dynamic wrinkles from repetitive facial expressions
- Reversible muscle-relaxing effect without injection
- Smooths forehead, periorbital, and perioral lines
- Complementary to collagen-stimulating peptides
- Well-studied tolerability in cosmetic concentrations
- Can be combined with Syn-Ake for dual conotoxin/viper venom effect
- 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 contact sensitivity or mild irritation
- No clinically significant systemic neuromuscular effects at cosmetic doses
- Stacks With
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