MGF (Mechano Growth Factor) vs Nonapeptide-1
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
Anabolic & IGF
MGF (Mechano Growth Factor)Skin & Cosmetic
Nonapeptide-1- Summary
- MGF (Mechano Growth Factor) is a splice variant of IGF-1 that is locally produced in muscle tissue in response to mechanical damage from exercise. It activates muscle satellite cells (stem cells) to proliferate and repair damaged fibers, making it specifically targeted at exercise-induced hypertrophy.
- Nonapeptide-1 is a synthetic 9-amino acid peptide that inhibits melanin production by blocking α-MSH (alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone) receptor binding. Used in cosmetic formulations for skin lightening and evening skin tone, it is particularly effective for UV-induced and hormonal hyperpigmentation.
- Half-Life
- Native MGF: minutes. PEG-MGF: ~3 days
- Not applicable (topical)
- Admin Route
- SubQ, IM
- Topical
- Research
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- Typical Dose
- 200–400 mcg
- 0.05–0.5% concentration in formulation
- Frequency
- 1–2 times per week
- Twice daily
- Key Benefits
- Activates muscle satellite cells for repair and growth
- Accelerates recovery from muscle damage
- Synergistic with IGF-1 LR3 (different mechanisms)
- Promotes muscle hypertrophy specifically at exercised muscles
- Faster recovery between training sessions
- Potential for injury repair in connective tissue
- Inhibits UV-induced tanning and hyperpigmentation
- Reduces hormonal melasma
- Evens skin tone at receptor level
- Well-tolerated with minimal irritation
- Complementary to tyrosinase inhibitors for enhanced brightening
- Reduces post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
- Side Effects
- Muscle soreness (satellite cell activation)
- Injection site irritation
- Hypoglycemia risk (modest, less than IGF-1 LR3)
- Generally very well-tolerated
- Rare contact sensitivity in susceptible individuals
- Theoretical risk of excessive depigmentation with prolonged high-concentration use
- Stacks With
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