Pal-AHK vs MOTS-c
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.
- MOTS-c is a mitochondria-derived peptide (MDP) encoded within the mitochondrial genome. It acts as a metabolic regulator, improving insulin sensitivity, enhancing exercise capacity, and counteracting age-related metabolic decline. It is often called a 'mitochondrial hormone.'
- Half-Life
- Extended (lipid depot effect in stratum corneum)
- Estimated 1–2 hours
- Admin Route
- Topical
- SubQ
- Research
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- Typical Dose
- 0.01–0.05% in formulation
- 5–15 mg
- Frequency
- Once or twice daily
- 3–5 times 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
- Improves insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism
- Enhances exercise capacity and endurance
- Reduces age-related metabolic decline
- Activates AMPK — the master metabolic regulator
- Promotes fat oxidation
- Anti-inflammatory effects
- May extend healthspan via mitochondrial optimization
- Increases energy and reduces fatigue
- Side Effects
- Generally well-tolerated
- Mild irritation at high concentrations in sensitive skin
- Possible comedogenicity at very high palmitate concentrations (formulation-dependent)
- Injection site irritation
- Fatigue during initial adaptation
- Unknown long-term profile (limited human data)
- Stacks With
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