Peptide Comparison
SYN-AKEvsGHK-Cu
Synthetic snake venom-mimetic tripeptide that competitively antagonizes nicotinic acetylcholine receptors for rapid expression wrinkle reduction.
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
SYN-AKE
1%–4% %
GHK-Cu
1–3 mg
Frequency
SYN-AKE
Once daily
GHK-Cu
Once daily
Administration
SYN-AKE
Topical
GHK-Cu
Subcutaneous injection
Cycle Length
SYN-AKE
Ongoing/indefinite
GHK-Cu
8-12 weeks
Onset Speed
SYN-AKE
Moderate (1-2 weeks)
GHK-Cu
Moderate (1-2 weeks)
Evidence Level
SYN-AKE
Limited human trials
GHK-Cu
Strong preclinical (extensive animal studies)
Efficacy
Benefit
ratings
Rapid Wrinkle Reduction
Neuromuscular Specificity
Multi-Target Anti-Aging
Skin Rejuvenation
Wound Healing
Tissue Regeneration
Technical Data
Compound
specifications
SYN-AKE
Molecular Formula
C23H37N5O7
Molecular Weight
495.58 Da
Half-Life
Topical application; immediate nAChR antagonism with effects persisting up to 24 hours per application
Bioavailability
Topical dermal penetration sufficient for neuromuscular junction modulation; supplied pre-formulated in glycerin/aqua vehicle
CAS Number
823202-99-9
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
SYN-AKE
GHK-Cu
Applications
Best
suited for
SYN-AKE
Individuals seeking rapid-acting topical wrinkle reduction for expression lines
SYN-AKE is particularly well-suited for individuals focused on individuals seeking rapid-acting topical wrinkle reduction 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 extend or complement botulinum toxin injection results
SYN-AKE is particularly well-suited for individuals focused on those wanting to extend or complement botulinum toxin injection results. Research and clinical experience suggest meaningful benefits in this area when used as part of a comprehensive treatment approach.
People with crow's feet, forehead lines, and glabellar wrinkles from muscle movement
SYN-AKE is particularly well-suited for individuals focused on people with crow's feet, forehead lines, and glabellar wrinkles from muscle movement. Research and clinical experience suggest meaningful benefits in this area when used as part of a comprehensive treatment approach.
Users preferring a well-characterized peptide with defined receptor pharmacology
SYN-AKE is particularly well-suited for individuals focused on users preferring a well-characterized peptide with defined receptor pharmacology. 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
SYN-AKE
Common
- Mild Tingling Sensation
- Temporary Tightening Sensation
- Mild Skin Dryness
- Transient Redness
Uncommon
- Contact Irritation (rare)
Serious
- Allergic Reaction (not reported)
- Anaphylactic Reaction to Snake Peptide Derivative
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
SYN-AKE
Evidence Level
Limited human trials
FDA Status
Research compound
Safety Overview
SYN-AKE demonstrates excellent topical tolerability with no serious adverse events reported in cosmetic use spanning 15+ years. Adverse testing including Ames test (genotoxicity) and cytotoxicity assays show negative results at therapeutic concentrations, confirming absence of mutagenic or cellular toxicity potential. Occasional mild tingling or slight dryness represents expected local skin responses rather than true adverse effects; systemic absorption is negligible due to peptide topical application mechanism.
Contraindications
- xKnown hypersensitivity to Dipeptide Diaminobutyroyl Benzylamide Diacetate or excipients
- xActive skin infections or significant dermatitis at intended application sites
- xSevere compromised skin barrier in the treatment area
- xConcurrent use with products at pH above 7.5 that may destabilize the peptide
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 SYN-AKE if...
- Individuals seeking rapid-acting topical wrinkle reduction for expression lines
- Those wanting to extend or complement botulinum toxin injection results
- People with crow's feet, forehead lines, and glabellar wrinkles from muscle movement
- Users preferring a well-characterized peptide with defined receptor pharmacology
Choose GHK-Cu if...
- Skin rejuvenation and anti-aging
- Wound and injury recovery
- Scar reduction
- Hair growth support