Skin, Hair & Aesthetic
Aesthetic peptides span well-studied topical cosmeceuticals and compounds with more limited or anecdotal support. Routes of administration matter a great deal here and are discussed per compound.
AHK-Cu
In vitroA copper-binding cosmetic tripeptide, related to GHK-Cu but marketed primarily around hair appearance and follicle support.
Argireline (Acetyl Hexapeptide-8)
In vitroOne of the most widely used topical cosmetic peptides, marketed to reduce the appearance of expression wrinkles.
GHK-Cu
MixedA naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide (Gly-His-Lys) with genuine topical cosmeceutical research and a wider base of anecdotal use for skin and hair.
Melanotan II
MixedA melanocortin receptor agonist used unofficially for tanning and libido effects, with meaningful safety concerns and no approval for these uses.
PT-141
HumanA melanocortin receptor agonist that acts on the nervous system rather than the vascular system; one formulation (bremelanotide / Vyleesi) is FDA-approved for a specific indication.
SNAP-8
In vitroA topical cosmetic peptide (an extension of the argireline concept) marketed to reduce the appearance of expression wrinkles.