Pal-GHK vs DSIP
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
- Summary
- Pal-GHK is the palmitoylated form of the GHK tripeptide without a copper ion. By conjugating palmitic acid to glycine-histidine-lysine, skin penetration is substantially enhanced, enabling deeper dermal collagen stimulation. It is commonly paired with Pal-GHK-Cu or GHK-Cu in anti-aging formulations.
- DSIP is an endogenous neuropeptide originally isolated from rabbit cerebrospinal fluid that induces delta-wave (deep) sleep. It also modulates stress response, cortisol regulation, and LH secretion, making it valuable for sleep optimization and stress management.
- Half-Life
- Extended (lipid depot in stratum corneum)
- ~30–60 minutes; however downstream sleep effects last 4–6 hours
- Admin Route
- Topical
- SubQ, IV, Intranasal
- Research
- —
- —
- Typical Dose
- 0.005–0.1% in formulation
- 100–400 mcg
- Frequency
- Once or twice daily
- Once nightly
- Key Benefits
- Stimulates collagen I and III synthesis in dermis
- Reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
- Improves skin elasticity and firmness
- Inhibits collagenase (MMP-1) to preserve existing collagen
- Enhances wound healing and skin repair
- Well-tolerated in anti-aging serums and creams
- Induces and deepens delta-wave (slow-wave) sleep
- Reduces cortisol and normalizes HPA axis
- Improves sleep quality in insomnia patients
- Anti-stress and anxiolytic effects
- May improve opiate/alcohol withdrawal symptoms
- Analgesic properties through opioid modulation
- Antioxidant and neuroprotective effects
- Side Effects
- Generally very well-tolerated
- Rare skin irritation at very high concentrations
- Possible formulation-dependent comedogenicity
- Generally well tolerated
- Mild grogginess next morning at higher doses
- Rare: hypotension
- Potential for altered dream patterns
- Stacks With
- —
- —