Pal-AHK vs IGF-1 LR3
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
- Summary
- Pal-AHK is the palmitoylated form of the AHK-Cu copper tripeptide, created by attaching a palmitic acid chain to enhance skin penetration and lipid bilayer affinity. The palmitoyl modification significantly improves dermal bioavailability compared to unmodified AHK, making it particularly effective in anti-aging and hair growth formulations.
- 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.
- Half-Life
- Extended (lipid depot effect in stratum corneum)
- 20–30 hours
- Admin Route
- Topical
- SubQ, IM
- Research
- —
- —
- Typical Dose
- 0.01–0.05% in formulation
- 40–80 mcg
- Frequency
- Once or twice daily
- Once daily or split twice daily
- Key Benefits
- Enhanced skin penetration vs. unmodified AHK-Cu
- Stimulates dermal collagen and elastin production
- Promotes hair follicle anagen phase
- Antioxidant and wound healing activity
- Firming and plumping effect on aging skin
- Improved bioavailability via lipid bilayer incorporation
- 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
- Side Effects
- Generally well-tolerated
- Mild irritation at high concentrations in sensitive skin
- Possible comedogenicity at very high palmitate concentrations (formulation-dependent)
- 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
- Stacks With
- —
- —