GHK-Cu vs Matrixyl
A side-by-side research comparison of GHK-Cu and Matrixyl across mechanism, dosing, half-life, benefits, side effects and research status.
Comparison table
| Attribute | GHK-Cu | Matrixyl |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | Copper Peptide GHK-Cu (Glycyl-Histidyl-Lysine Copper) | Matrixyl (Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4 / Pal-KTTKS) |
| 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. | Signals through TGF-B pathway to stimulate fibroblast production of collagen I, III, IV, fibronectin, and hyaluronic acid. Palmitoyl chain enhances penetration. |
| Molecular weight | 403.93 Da | 802.1 Da |
| Half-life | ~2-4 hours | 6-12 hours (topical depot) |
| Bioavailability | Topical: local; Injectable: ~90% subcutaneous | Moderate (topical) |
| Typical dose | 1-3 mg topical · 200-500 mcg injectable | 2-8% in serum/cream |
| 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
Matrixyl reported benefits
- Stimulates collagen I, III, IV
- Reduces wrinkle depth up to 45%
- Increases skin thickness
- Improves firmness
- Enhances hydration
Related comparisons
Research and educational reference only. Not medical advice.