GHK-Cu vs Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
Skin & CosmeticRecovery & RepairAnti-Aging & Longevity
GHK-CuSkin & Cosmetic
Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7- Summary
- GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring copper complex that declines with age. It is one of the most studied anti-aging peptides, known for powerful skin rejuvenation, wound healing, and tissue remodeling effects.
- Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 (Rigin) is a cosmetic peptide consisting of palmitic acid linked to the tetrapeptide sequence GQPR (Gly-Gln-Pro-Arg). It was designed to mimic the biological activity of the IgG immunoglobulin C-terminus, which downregulates the production of interleukin-6 (IL-6), a key driver of skin aging and inflammation.
- Half-Life
- 2–4 hours
- Topical penetration-dependent; effects last hours to days
- Admin Route
- SubQ, Topical
- Topical
- Research
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- Typical Dose
- 1–3 mg
- 2-5 ppm concentration in formulation
- Frequency
- 3–5 times per week
- Twice daily
- Key Benefits
- Reduces wrinkles and fine lines
- Improves skin firmness and elasticity
- Accelerates wound healing
- Reduces inflammation and oxidative damage
- Promotes hair growth and thickness
- Supports collagen and elastin production
- May improve overall skin health and appearance
- Resets aged fibroblast behavior
- Anti-fibrotic — reduces scar tissue formation
- Reduces IL-6 inflammatory cytokine in skin
- Prevents 'inflammaging' of the skin
- Inhibits MMP collagen-degrading enzymes
- Synergistic with Matrixyl for anti-aging
- Clinically tested for wrinkle and skin texture improvement
- Well-tolerated topically
- Side Effects
- Temporary blue-green discoloration at injection site (from copper — harmless)
- Post-injection sting (brief)
- Skin irritation with topical use (rare)
- Contact sensitization (rare)
- Well-tolerated at standard concentrations
- Stacks With
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