Peptide Comparison
LeuphasylvsGHK-Cu
Enkephalin-mimetic cosmetic peptide that reduces expression wrinkles by modulating acetylcholine release at the neuromuscular junction, offering a Botox-like topical alternative.
A naturally occurring copper peptide that acts like a master switch for your body's repair systems—boosting collagen production, accelerating wound healing, and helping your skin rebuild itself from the inside out.
At a Glance
Quick
comparison
Dose Range
Leuphasyl
As prescribed–As prescribed mg
GHK-Cu
1–3 mg
Frequency
Leuphasyl
Once daily
GHK-Cu
Once daily
Administration
Leuphasyl
Topical application (serums, creams, ampoules)
GHK-Cu
Subcutaneous injection
Cycle Length
Leuphasyl
Ongoing/indefinite
GHK-Cu
8-12 weeks
Onset Speed
Leuphasyl
Slow (5+ weeks)
GHK-Cu
Moderate (1-2 weeks)
Evidence Level
Leuphasyl
Moderate human trials (Phase 1-2)
GHK-Cu
Strong preclinical (extensive animal studies)
Efficacy
Benefit
ratings
Wrinkle Reduction
Skin Smoothing
Anti-Aging Prevention
Skin Rejuvenation
Wound Healing
Tissue Regeneration
Technical Data
Compound
specifications
Leuphasyl
Molecular Formula
C29H39N5O7
Molecular Weight
569.65 g/mol
Half-Life
Topical application (local activity, systemic half-life not applicable)
Bioavailability
Limited (topical peptide; skin penetration challenged by hydrophilic nature and molecular size)
CAS Number
64963-01-5
GHK-Cu
Molecular Formula
C14H23N6O4Cu
Molecular Weight
403.93 g/mol
Half-Life
Approximately 1 hour (plasma)
Bioavailability
High when injected subcutaneously; variable topically depending on formulation
CAS Number
49557-75-7
Protocols
Dosing
tiers
Leuphasyl
GHK-Cu
Applications
Best
suited for
Leuphasyl
Expression line reduction
Leuphasyl is particularly well-suited for individuals focused on expression line reduction. Research and clinical experience suggest meaningful benefits in this area when used as part of a comprehensive treatment approach.
Fine line prevention
Leuphasyl is particularly well-suited for individuals focused on fine line prevention. Research and clinical experience suggest meaningful benefits in this area when used as part of a comprehensive treatment approach.
Age management
Leuphasyl is particularly well-suited for individuals focused on age management. Research and clinical experience suggest meaningful benefits in this area when used as part of a comprehensive treatment approach.
Non-invasive wrinkle reduction
Leuphasyl is particularly well-suited for individuals focused on non-invasive wrinkle reduction. Research and clinical experience suggest meaningful benefits in this area when used as part of a comprehensive treatment approach.
GHK-Cu
Anti-Aging Warriors
If fine lines, sagging skin, and lost elasticity are your enemies, GHK-Cu is your secret weapon. It ramps up collagen and elastin production—the two proteins responsible for keeping your skin firm and youthful. Studies show it can tighten loose skin and improve elasticity better than many popular skincare ingredients.
Wound Healing Champions
Whether you're recovering from surgery, dealing with stubborn wounds, or healing from a cosmetic procedure, GHK-Cu accelerates the entire repair process. It attracts immune cells, builds new blood vessels, and stimulates the growth factors your body needs to rebuild tissue faster and better.
Scar Reducers
GHK-Cu doesn't just heal wounds—it helps remodel scar tissue. By regulating how your body lays down collagen during healing, it can help scars become flatter, softer, and more like surrounding normal skin. It even reduces the TGF-beta signals that lead to thick, raised scars.
Hair Growth Seekers
Research shows GHK-Cu can enlarge hair follicles and activate the Wnt/beta-catenin pathway—the signaling system that tells hair follicles to grow. If you're noticing thinning hair or increased shedding, this peptide may help stimulate thicker, healthier growth over time.
Safety Profile
Side
effects
Leuphasyl
Common
- Mild discomfort at treatment site
- Mild skin tingling
- Mild redness at application site
Uncommon
- Temporary skin dryness
Serious
- Severe allergic reaction
GHK-Cu
Common
- Injection site redness
- Skin tingling (topical use)
- Minor bruising
- Mild swelling at injection site
Uncommon
- Mild headache
- Temporary skin purging (topical)
Serious
- Allergic reaction
Research Status
Safety
& evidence
Leuphasyl
Evidence Level
Moderate human trials (Phase 1-2)
FDA Status
Research compound
Safety Overview
Leuphasyl (Pentapeptide-18) has been studied in cosmetic research for over 15 years. This topical enkephalin-mimetic peptide demonstrates an excellent safety profile in cosmetic formulations, with no reported serious adverse effects in clinical applications. As a topical cosmetic ingredient, it avoids systemic absorption concerns associated with injectable treatments. The peptide is well-tolerated across all skin types including sensitive skin. Individual responses can vary with formulation and concentration, but most effects are manageable with standard cosmetic application protocols.
Contraindications
- xKnown hypersensitivity to peptides
- xOpen wounds or broken skin at application site
- xActive dermatological infections at application site
GHK-Cu
Evidence Level
Strong preclinical (extensive animal studies)
FDA Status
Research compound
Safety Overview
GHK-Cu has an excellent safety profile backed by decades of research since its discovery in the 1970s. It's a naturally occurring peptide found in your blood, saliva, and urine—your body already knows it well. Concentrations naturally decline with age (from about 200 ng/mL at age 20 to 80 ng/mL by age 60), which is part of why supplementation makes sense. Most side effects are mild and injection-related. The copper component is well-tolerated at recommended doses but should be monitored in long-term use.
Contraindications
- xWilson's disease or copper metabolism disorders
- xKnown allergy to copper or peptide components
- xActive cancer or history of cancer
- xPregnancy or breastfeeding
- xChildren and adolescents
Decision Guide
Which is
right for you?
Choose Leuphasyl if...
- Expression line reduction
- Fine line prevention
- Age management
- Non-invasive wrinkle reduction
Choose GHK-Cu if...
- Skin rejuvenation and anti-aging
- Wound and injury recovery
- Scar reduction
- Hair growth support