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ToolsCompareIGF-1 LR3 vs Palmitoyl Dipeptide-6

IGF-1 LR3 vs Palmitoyl Dipeptide-6

Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.

Anabolic & IGF
IGF-1 LR3
Skin & CosmeticAnti-Aging & Longevity
Palmitoyl Dipeptide-6
Summary
IGF-1 LR3 is a synthetic analog of Insulin-like Growth Factor-1 with an extended half-life. It is one of the most potent anabolic peptides available, directly stimulating muscle cell hyperplasia and hypertrophy, and is the downstream mediator of many of GH's anabolic effects.
Palmitoyl Dipeptide-6 is a synthetic dipeptide (lysine-threonine) with a palmitoyl fatty acid tail, designed to penetrate the skin barrier and stimulate the extracellular matrix components essential for skin firmness. It activates fibronectin and type IV collagen synthesis, improving skin density and firmness particularly in mature or sagging skin.
Half-Life
20–30 hours
Not applicable (topical)
Admin Route
SubQ, IM
Topical
Research
Typical Dose
40–80 mcg
0.005–0.05% in formulation
Frequency
Once daily or split twice daily
Once or twice daily
Key Benefits
  • Direct muscle hypertrophy via IGF-1R stimulation
  • Muscle hyperplasia (new fiber formation) — unique among peptides
  • Rapid gains in lean muscle mass
  • Accelerated recovery from training and injury
  • Increased nutrient uptake by muscle cells
  • Fat oxidation enhancement
  • Bone density improvement
  • Cartilage and connective tissue repair
  • Increases skin firmness and density
  • Stimulates fibronectin and collagen IV production
  • Strengthens the dermal-epidermal junction
  • Reduces skin sagging in mature skin
  • Improves skin texture and smoothness
  • Supports extracellular matrix integrity
Side Effects
  • Hypoglycemia (significant risk — insulin-like activity)
  • Acromegaly-like effects with excessive long-term use
  • Jaw and hand swelling
  • Organ hypertrophy with extreme doses
  • +2 more
  • Generally well-tolerated
  • Rare mild skin irritation in sensitive individuals
  • No known systemic effects at cosmetic concentrations
Stacks With