Pal-AHK vs Selank
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.
- Selank is a synthetic heptapeptide analog of tuftsin developed in Russia. It is a potent anxiolytic that reduces anxiety and enhances cognitive function without sedation or addiction. It is approved for clinical use in Russia for anxiety disorders.
- Half-Life
- Extended (lipid depot effect in stratum corneum)
- Minutes (but effects persist for hours)
- Admin Route
- Topical
- SubQ, Intranasal
- Research
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- Typical Dose
- 0.01–0.05% in formulation
- 250–500 mcg
- Frequency
- Once or twice daily
- 1–3 times 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
- Reduces anxiety without sedation
- Enhances memory and learning
- Improves focus and concentration
- Stabilizes mood
- Reduces physiological stress response
- May enhance motivation
- No addiction potential or withdrawal
- Fast-acting — effects within 20–30 minutes
- Approved clinically in Russia for anxiety disorders
- Side Effects
- Generally well-tolerated
- Mild irritation at high concentrations in sensitive skin
- Possible comedogenicity at very high palmitate concentrations (formulation-dependent)
- Mild sedation at higher doses (paradoxical)
- Fatigue (rare)
- Irritability during discontinuation (uncommon)
- Stacks With
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