Side-by-Side Comparison · 2026

GHK vs Melanotan II

GHK vs Melanotan II — mechanism, half-life, dosing, and research status compared. Which is right for your protocol?

GHK
Skin & Cosmetic

GHK (Glycyl-L-Histidyl-L-Lysine) is the copper-free form of the GHK-Cu tripeptide. While GHK-Cu (GHK chelated to copper) is more widely studied for wound healing and tissue repair, GHK alone retains some bioactivity, particularly for signaling collagen synthesis and gene expressi...

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Melanotan II
Skin & Cosmetic

Melanotan II (MT-II) is a synthetic analog of alpha-MSH (alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone) that non-selectively activates melanocortin receptors MC1R through MC5R. It produces accelerated skin tanning via MC1R stimulation of melanogenesis, increases libido through MC3R and MC...

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Key Parameters
Parameter GHK Melanotan II
Category Skin & Cosmetic Skin & Cosmetic
Research Research Use Research Use
Half-Life - ~1.5 hours
Typical Dose 1–5% topical; 1–2 mg/mL injectable 250–500 µg (starting); up to 1,000 µg
Frequency Once or twice daily Daily initially; 2–3x/week maintenance
Route Topical / Injectable Subcutaneous
FDA Status Not Approved (Cosmetic) Not Approved

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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between GHK and Melanotan II?
GHK: GHK (Glycyl-L-Histidyl-L-Lysine) is the copper-free form of the GHK-Cu tripeptide. While GHK-Cu (GHK chelated to copper) is more widely studied for wound healing and tissue repair, GHK alone retains s... Melanotan II: Melanotan II (MT-II) is a synthetic analog of alpha-MSH (alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone) that non-selectively activates melanocortin receptors MC1R through MC5R. It produces accelerated skin tan...
Which has a longer half-life, GHK or Melanotan II?
GHK half-life: unknown. Melanotan II half-life: ~1.5 hours.
Can you stack GHK and Melanotan II?
GHK and Melanotan II are in the same category and used together in research protocols. Always consult relevant literature and follow appropriate guidelines.

For research use only. Not medical advice. ASCEND does not conduct or endorse any specific research protocol. Always consult relevant scientific literature and regulatory guidelines.