GHK-Cu vs Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7
A side-by-side research comparison of GHK-Cu and Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 across mechanism, dosing, half-life, benefits, side effects and research status.
Comparison table
| Attribute | GHK-Cu | Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | Copper Peptide GHK-Cu (Glycyl-Histidyl-Lysine Copper) | Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 (Pal-GQPR) |
| Category | Skin & Anti-Aging | Skin & Anti-Aging |
| Status | Research compound | Research compound |
| Mechanism | Copper delivery enhances antioxidant enzyme activity (SOD), stimulates collagen and glycosaminoglycan synthesis, promotes stem cell activation, and modulates gene expression. | Inhibits IL-6 release from keratinocytes and reduces inflammation-mediated MMP activation, preserving existing collagen while complementing Pal-GHK collagen building. |
| Molecular weight | 403.93 Da | 693 Da |
| Half-life | ~2-4 hours | 8-12 hours (topical) |
| Bioavailability | Topical: local; Injectable: ~90% subcutaneous | Good (topical) |
| Typical dose | 1-3 mg topical · 200-500 mcg injectable | 2-4% in formulation |
| Frequency | Daily (topical) · 3x/week (injectable) | 1-2x daily |
| Route | Topical cream/serum or subcutaneous injection | Topical |
GHK-Cu reported benefits
- Collagen and elastin synthesis
- Wound healing acceleration
- Skin tightening and remodeling
- Hair follicle stimulation
- Antioxidant protection
Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 reported benefits
- Anti-inflammatory (skin)
- Reduces IL-6
- Prevents collagen degradation
- Combats inflammaging
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Research and educational reference only. Not medical advice.