Matrixyl vs GHK-Cu (Copper Peptide)
A detailed comparison to help you understand the differences and choose the right peptide for your research goals.
Matrixyl
Matrixyl (Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4) is a signal peptide that stimulates collagen and extracellular matrix production. It is one of the most well-studied anti-aging peptides with proven efficacy for wrinkle reduction.
Full details →GHK-Cu (Copper Peptide)
GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring copper peptide found in human plasma, saliva, and urine. It plays important roles in wound healing, tissue repair, and has shown anti-aging properties in research.
Full details →Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aspect | Matrixyl | GHK-Cu (Copper Peptide) |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | Mimics collagen breakdown fragments, triggering fibroblasts to produce new collagen, elastin, and other matrix components. Essentially tricks skin into repair mode without actual damage. | Attracts immune cells and fibroblasts to wound sites, stimulates collagen and glycosaminoglycan synthesis, promotes angiogenesis, and has antioxidant effects. Modulates gene expression related to tissue repair. |
| Typical Dosage | Topical: 2-8% concentration in serums and creams. Matrixyl 3000 combines it with Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 for enhanced effects. | Topical: Applied as serum or cream 1-2 times daily. Injectable: 1-2mg daily for research purposes. Microneedling protocols often use 0.5-1%. |
| Administration | Topical application 1-2 times daily. Can be combined with other actives like retinol, vitamin C, and other peptides. | Most commonly used topically for skin applications. Can be injected subcutaneously for systemic effects. Often combined with microneedling for enhanced skin penetration. |
| Side Effects | Very well-tolerated. Rare mild irritation. Suitable for sensitive skin types. | Topical use is generally well-tolerated. May cause temporary skin irritation or redness in sensitive individuals. Injectable use may cause injection site reactions. |
| Best For |
What They Have in Common
Both Matrixyl and GHK-Cu (Copper Peptide) are commonly used for: