Humanin vs Matrixyl
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
- Summary
- Humanin is a mitochondria-derived peptide (MDP) encoded in the 16S rRNA region of the mitochondrial genome. It protects neurons and other cells from apoptosis, improves insulin sensitivity, and declines significantly with age. HNG (S14G-Humanin) is a synthetic analog with 1000x greater potency.
- Matrixyl is the most widely used collagen-stimulating cosmetic peptide. As a matrikine — a fragment of type I procollagen — it signals skin cells to synthesize new collagen, elastin, and fibronectin, reducing wrinkle depth and improving skin firmness and elasticity.
- Half-Life
- ~4–8 hours (HNG)
- N/A — topical; sustained signaling effects on fibroblasts persist beyond single application
- Admin Route
- SubQ
- Topical
- Research
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- Typical Dose
- 2–8 mg
- 3–8% concentration
- Frequency
- 3–5 times per week
- Once or twice daily
- Key Benefits
- Neuroprotection against amyloid-beta toxicity (Alzheimer's relevance)
- Inhibits cellular apoptosis
- Improves insulin sensitivity
- Reduces cardiovascular risk markers
- Anti-inflammatory effects
- Correlates with longevity in centenarian studies
- Protects against ischemic injury
- Potential cancer cell apoptosis sensitization
- Stimulates collagen I, III, and IV synthesis
- Increases fibronectin and glycosaminoglycan production
- Reduces wrinkle depth and length by 27–68% (studies)
- Improves skin firmness and elasticity
- Reduces dark circles and undereye bags
- Synergistic with retinol, vitamin C, and growth factors
- Suitable for all skin types including sensitive
- Well-studied with published clinical data
- Side Effects
- Injection site irritation
- Limited human safety data available
- Exceptional safety profile
- Non-irritating, suitable for sensitive skin
- No known adverse effects at cosmetic concentrations
- Stacks With
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