Pentapeptide-18 vs MOTS-c
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
Skin & CosmeticAnti-Aging & Longevity
Pentapeptide-18Anti-Aging & Longevity
MOTS-c- 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.
- 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
- Not applicable (topical)
- Estimated 1–2 hours
- Admin Route
- Topical
- SubQ
- Research
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- Typical Dose
- 0.005–0.05% in formulation
- 5–15 mg
- Frequency
- Twice daily
- 3–5 times per week
- 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
- 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 very well-tolerated topically
- Rare skin sensitivity or mild irritation
- Theoretical opioid receptor desensitization with very prolonged high-dose use (not documented cosmetically)
- Injection site irritation
- Fatigue during initial adaptation
- Unknown long-term profile (limited human data)
- Stacks With
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