Pentapeptide-18 vs IGF-1 LR3
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
Skin & CosmeticAnti-Aging & Longevity
Pentapeptide-18Anabolic & IGF
IGF-1 LR3- Summary
- Pentapeptide-18 (Leuphasyl) is a synthetic pentapeptide that mimics the sequence of enkephalin, an endogenous neuropeptide. It acts on neuronal pain receptors in facial muscles to reduce muscle contraction intensity and depth of expression lines, functioning similarly to Argireline (Acetyl Hexapeptide-3) but via a different receptor mechanism.
- IGF-1 LR3 is a synthetic analog of Insulin-like Growth Factor-1 with an extended half-life. It is one of the most potent anabolic peptides available, directly stimulating muscle cell hyperplasia and hypertrophy, and is the downstream mediator of many of GH's anabolic effects.
- Half-Life
- Not applicable (topical)
- 20–30 hours
- Admin Route
- Topical
- SubQ, IM
- Research
- —
- —
- Typical Dose
- 0.005–0.05% in formulation
- 40–80 mcg
- Frequency
- Twice daily
- Once daily or split twice daily
- Key Benefits
- Reduces depth of expression lines (forehead, crow's feet, glabellar)
- Inhibits acetylcholine release for muscle-relaxing effect
- Complementary mechanism to Argireline for enhanced anti-wrinkle activity
- Reversible and well-tolerated
- No risk of systemic paralysis at cosmetic concentrations
- Suitable for daily use in serums and creams
- Direct muscle hypertrophy via IGF-1R stimulation
- Muscle hyperplasia (new fiber formation) — unique among peptides
- Rapid gains in lean muscle mass
- Accelerated recovery from training and injury
- Increased nutrient uptake by muscle cells
- Fat oxidation enhancement
- Bone density improvement
- Cartilage and connective tissue repair
- Side Effects
- Generally very well-tolerated topically
- Rare skin sensitivity or mild irritation
- Theoretical opioid receptor desensitization with very prolonged high-dose use (not documented cosmetically)
- Hypoglycemia (significant risk — insulin-like activity)
- Acromegaly-like effects with excessive long-term use
- Jaw and hand swelling
- Organ hypertrophy with extreme doses
- +2 more
- Stacks With
- —
- —