Pal-AHK vs LL-37
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.
- LL-37 is the only known human cathelicidin antimicrobial peptide. It kills bacteria, fungi, and viruses by disrupting their membranes, while simultaneously modulating immune responses. Used for antimicrobial protection, immune priming, and wound healing.
- Half-Life
- Extended (lipid depot effect in stratum corneum)
- Very short (~1–2 hours) in plasma due to protease degradation; topical use bypasses systemic clearance
- Admin Route
- Topical
- SubQ, Topical, Intranasal
- Research
- —
- —
- Typical Dose
- 0.01–0.05% in formulation
- 100–300 mcg
- Frequency
- Once or twice daily
- 2–3x per week
- 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
- Broad-spectrum antimicrobial (bacteria, fungi, viruses)
- Promotes wound healing and angiogenesis
- Immune system modulation — enhances innate immunity
- Reduces LPS-mediated endotoxemia
- Anti-biofilm activity against resistant organisms
- Promotes tissue regeneration and keratinocyte migration
- May protect against sepsis
- Side Effects
- Generally well-tolerated
- Mild irritation at high concentrations in sensitive skin
- Possible comedogenicity at very high palmitate concentrations (formulation-dependent)
- Injection site redness and irritation
- Mild inflammatory response at injection site
- Potential pro-inflammatory at high doses
- Rare: fever or flu-like symptoms at initiation
- Stacks With
- —
- —