Side-by-Side Comparison · 2026

GHK vs Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4

GHK vs Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4 — 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...

Calculate GHK dose →
Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4
Skin & Cosmetic

Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4 (Pal-KTTKS, also marketed as Matrixyl) is a cosmetic peptide derived from a fragment of procollagen type I. The palmitoyl fatty acid attachment allows it to penetrate the skin lipid barrier and reach dermal fibroblasts....

Calculate Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4 dose →
Key Parameters
Parameter GHK Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4
Category Skin & Cosmetic Skin & Cosmetic
Research Research Use Widely Used (Cosmetic)
Half-Life - -
Typical Dose 1–5% topical; 1–2 mg/mL injectable 3–5% in formulation
Frequency Once or twice daily Once or twice daily
Route Topical / Injectable Topical
FDA Status Not Approved (Cosmetic) Not Approved (Cosmetic Ingredient)

Calculate doses for both

Use ASCEND's free reconstitution calculator to get exact syringe draw amounts for your vial.

Calculate GHK Calculate Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between GHK and Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4?
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... Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4: Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4 (Pal-KTTKS, also marketed as Matrixyl) is a cosmetic peptide derived from a fragment of procollagen type I. The palmitoyl fatty acid attachment allows it to penetrate the skin...
Which has a longer half-life, GHK or Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4?
GHK half-life: unknown. Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4 half-life: unknown.
Can you stack GHK and Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4?
GHK and Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4 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.