Cosmetic

Peptides used for skin, hair and pigmentation — from well-established topical ingredients to approved and unapproved injectables. Read the legal and safety flags closely.

Community-reported ranges are anecdotal and not clinically validated. Evidence grade shown reflects the strength of available human data. Not a prescription. Legal status varies by country and changes over time; verify locally.

5 peptides

GHK-Cu

Human observational

Copper peptide, Glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine copper

A naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide widely used in topical cosmetics, where it has the most support. Injectable use is anecdotal.

Melanotan II

Animal / preclinical

MT-2, MT-II

A melanocortin-receptor agonist used for tanning. Carries notable safety concerns and tightening legal status; strongly cautioned.

PT-141 (Bremelanotide)

Human RCT

Vyleesi, Bremelanotide

A melanocortin-receptor agonist approved as bremelanotide (Vyleesi) for premenopausal women with HSDD. Other uses are off-label.

Approved medicine

Afamelanotide

Human RCT

Melanotan I, Scenesse

An alpha-MSH analogue approved as Scenesse (a subcutaneous implant) to reduce phototoxicity in erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP). It is the well-regulated cousin of the unapproved Melanotan II; approved use is narrow and clinician-administered.

Approved medicine

Argireline

Human observational

Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, Acetyl Hexapeptide-3

A topical cosmetic peptide marketed as a needle-free alternative to botulinum toxin for expression lines. Its support is for topical cosmetic use; it is not an injectable and effects are modest.