Peptide Comparison
LeuphasylvsGHK-Cu
Enkephalin-mimetic pentapeptide that reduces expression wrinkles through presynaptic neuromuscular inhibition, synergizing with Argireline.
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
2%–5% %
GHK-Cu
1–3 mg
Frequency
Leuphasyl
Once daily
GHK-Cu
Once daily
Administration
Leuphasyl
Topical
GHK-Cu
Subcutaneous injection
Cycle Length
Leuphasyl
Ongoing/indefinite
GHK-Cu
8-12 weeks
Onset Speed
Leuphasyl
Moderate (1-2 weeks)
GHK-Cu
Moderate (1-2 weeks)
Evidence Level
Leuphasyl
Limited human trials
GHK-Cu
Strong preclinical (extensive animal studies)
Efficacy
Benefit
ratings
Expression Wrinkle Reduction
Peptide Synergy
Safety & Tolerability
Skin Rejuvenation
Wound Healing
Tissue Regeneration
Technical Data
Compound
specifications
Leuphasyl
Molecular Formula
C29H39N5O7
Molecular Weight
569.65 Da
Half-Life
Topical application; sustained neuromuscular effect with twice-daily reapplication
Bioavailability
Topical dermal penetration sufficient for neuromuscular junction modulation in facial skin
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
Individuals seeking non-invasive alternatives to botulinum toxin for expression lines
Leuphasyl is particularly well-suited for individuals focused on individuals seeking non-invasive alternatives to botulinum toxin for expression lines. Research and clinical experience suggest meaningful benefits in this area when used as part of a comprehensive treatment approach.
Those wanting to enhance Argireline results through complementary peptide mechanisms
Leuphasyl is particularly well-suited for individuals focused on those wanting to enhance argireline results through complementary peptide mechanisms. Research and clinical experience suggest meaningful benefits in this area when used as part of a comprehensive treatment approach.
People with dynamic wrinkles on the forehead, glabella, and crow's feet areas
Leuphasyl is particularly well-suited for individuals focused on people with dynamic wrinkles on the forehead, glabella, and crow's feet areas. Research and clinical experience suggest meaningful benefits in this area when used as part of a comprehensive treatment approach.
Users preferring gentle peptide-based wrinkle treatments for sensitive skin
Leuphasyl is particularly well-suited for individuals focused on users preferring gentle peptide-based wrinkle treatments for sensitive skin. 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
- Transient Product Sensation
- Initial Adjustment Period
- Dryness from Vehicle
- Reduced Effect Over Time
Uncommon
- Contact Sensitivity (very rare)
Serious
- Allergic Reaction (theoretical)
- Opioid Receptor Cross-Reactivity
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
Limited human trials
FDA Status
Research compound
Safety Overview
Leuphasyl (a pentapeptide GnRH agonist) carries the safety profile of the GnRH agonist drug class with 40+ years of veterinary and research use. Inherent to all GnRH agonists is the initial flare effect (24-72 hours of elevated FSH/LH before suppression), which can cause transient behavioral changes in animals and temporary follicle overgrowth in reproductive applications. Injection site reactions and possible initial inflammation are common but resolve within days. The compound shows no genotoxicity, hepatotoxicity, or renal toxicity in preclinical evaluations.
Contraindications
- xKnown hypersensitivity to Pentapeptide-18 or formulation components
- xActive dermatitis or skin infections at intended application sites
- xConcurrent use with topical products at extreme pH that may hydrolyze the peptide
- xSevere skin barrier compromise in the treatment area
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...
- Individuals seeking non-invasive alternatives to botulinum toxin for expression lines
- Those wanting to enhance Argireline results through complementary peptide mechanisms
- People with dynamic wrinkles on the forehead, glabella, and crow's feet areas
- Users preferring gentle peptide-based wrinkle treatments for sensitive skin
Choose GHK-Cu if...
- Skin rejuvenation and anti-aging
- Wound and injury recovery
- Scar reduction
- Hair growth support