Pal-GHK vs Humanin
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.
- Humanin is a mitochondria-derived peptide (MDP) encoded in the 16S rRNA region of the mitochondrial genome. It protects neurons and other cells from apoptosis, improves insulin sensitivity, and declines significantly with age. HNG (S14G-Humanin) is a synthetic analog with 1000x greater potency.
- Half-Life
- Extended (lipid depot in stratum corneum)
- ~4–8 hours (HNG)
- Admin Route
- Topical
- SubQ
- Research
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- Typical Dose
- 0.005–0.1% in formulation
- 2–8 mg
- Frequency
- Once or twice daily
- 3–5 times per week
- 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
- Neuroprotection against amyloid-beta toxicity (Alzheimer's relevance)
- Inhibits cellular apoptosis
- Improves insulin sensitivity
- Reduces cardiovascular risk markers
- Anti-inflammatory effects
- Correlates with longevity in centenarian studies
- Protects against ischemic injury
- Potential cancer cell apoptosis sensitization
- Side Effects
- Generally very well-tolerated
- Rare skin irritation at very high concentrations
- Possible formulation-dependent comedogenicity
- Injection site irritation
- Limited human safety data available
- Stacks With
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