Matrixyl vs HGH Fragment 176-191
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
Skin & Cosmetic
MatrixylFat Loss & Metabolic
HGH Fragment 176-191- Summary
- 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.
- HGH Fragment 176-191 (also known as AOD-9604) is a stabilized, modified fragment of the human growth hormone molecule corresponding to amino acids 176–191 with an addition of a tyrosine residue at the N-terminus. It retains HGH's fat-burning properties without the anabolic, diabetogenic, or IGF-1-stimulating effects.
- Half-Life
- N/A — topical; sustained signaling effects on fibroblasts persist beyond single application
- ~30 minutes
- Admin Route
- Topical
- SubQ
- Research
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- Typical Dose
- 3–8% concentration
- 250–500 mcg
- Frequency
- Once or twice daily
- 1–3 times daily
- Key Benefits
- 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
- Selective fat burning without anabolic side effects
- Reduces visceral and subcutaneous fat
- No insulin resistance or blood glucose disruption
- Does not stimulate IGF-1
- May support cartilage and bone repair (at higher doses)
- No effect on growth or organ size
- Side Effects
- Exceptional safety profile
- Non-irritating, suitable for sensitive skin
- No known adverse effects at cosmetic concentrations
- Injection site irritation
- Temporary lethargy
- Headache (rare)
- Nausea (rare)
- Stacks With
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