Peptide Comparison
Palmitoyl OligopeptidevsGHK-Cu
Elastin-derived signal peptide that stimulates dermal matrix renewal and skin elasticity through matrikine signaling.
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
Palmitoyl Oligopeptide
0.003%–3% %
GHK-Cu
1–3 mg
Frequency
Palmitoyl Oligopeptide
Once daily
GHK-Cu
Once daily
Administration
Palmitoyl Oligopeptide
Topical
GHK-Cu
Subcutaneous injection
Cycle Length
Palmitoyl Oligopeptide
Ongoing/indefinite
GHK-Cu
8-12 weeks
Onset Speed
Palmitoyl Oligopeptide
Moderate (1-2 weeks)
GHK-Cu
Moderate (1-2 weeks)
Evidence Level
Palmitoyl Oligopeptide
Limited human trials
GHK-Cu
Strong preclinical (extensive animal studies)
Efficacy
Benefit
ratings
Collagen Stimulation
Skin Elasticity
Skin Hydration
Skin Rejuvenation
Wound Healing
Tissue Regeneration
Technical Data
Compound
specifications
Palmitoyl Oligopeptide
Molecular Formula
C36H63N5O7 (hexapeptide-12 variant)
Molecular Weight
694.9 Da (approximate for palmitoylated hexapeptide)
Half-Life
Topical application; degradation rate dependent on formulation pH and temperature
Bioavailability
Enhanced dermal penetration via palmitate conjugation; self-assembles with endogenous skin proteins
CAS Number
171263-26-6
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
Palmitoyl Oligopeptide
GHK-Cu
Applications
Best
suited for
Palmitoyl Oligopeptide
Individuals seeking collagen and elastin stimulation through topical peptides
Palmitoyl Oligopeptide is particularly well-suited for individuals focused on individuals seeking collagen and elastin stimulation through topical peptides. Research and clinical experience suggest meaningful benefits in this area when used as part of a comprehensive treatment approach.
Those with age-related loss of skin firmness and elasticity
Palmitoyl Oligopeptide is particularly well-suited for individuals focused on those with age-related loss of skin firmness and elasticity. Research and clinical experience suggest meaningful benefits in this area when used as part of a comprehensive treatment approach.
People looking for gentle anti-aging actives suitable for sensitive skin
Palmitoyl Oligopeptide is particularly well-suited for individuals focused on people looking for gentle anti-aging actives suitable for sensitive skin. Research and clinical experience suggest meaningful benefits in this area when used as part of a comprehensive treatment approach.
Users wanting to complement retinoid or vitamin C regimens with peptide support
Palmitoyl Oligopeptide is particularly well-suited for individuals focused on users wanting to complement retinoid or vitamin c regimens with peptide support. 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
Palmitoyl Oligopeptide
Common
- Transient Dryness
- Mild Tingling
- Product Interaction Sensitivity
- Minimal Erythema
Uncommon
- Contact Dermatitis
Serious
- Allergic Reaction
- Comedogenic Potential from Palmitic Acid
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
Palmitoyl Oligopeptide
Evidence Level
Limited human trials
FDA Status
Research compound
Safety Overview
Palmitoyl oligopeptide has GRAS-equivalent status for cosmetic use with no serious adverse events in safety testing up to 5% w/w in topical formulations. Mild skin irritation reported in <3% of subjects at high concentrations (irritation index 0-1 on 0-10 scale). No dermal penetration beyond stratum corneum in Franz diffusion cell studies. Long-term use data spans 15+ years of cosmetic industry application with no systemic toxicity.
Contraindications
- xKnown allergy or hypersensitivity to palmitoylated peptides or formulation excipients
- xActive skin infections or open wounds at the application site
- xConcurrent use with strong oxidizing agents that may degrade peptide structure
- xSevere dermatitis or eczema flares at intended application areas
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 Palmitoyl Oligopeptide if...
- Individuals seeking collagen and elastin stimulation through topical peptides
- Those with age-related loss of skin firmness and elasticity
- People looking for gentle anti-aging actives suitable for sensitive skin
- Users wanting to complement retinoid or vitamin C regimens with peptide support
Choose GHK-Cu if...
- Skin rejuvenation and anti-aging
- Wound and injury recovery
- Scar reduction
- Hair growth support