Category
Cosmetic
Peptides used for skin, hair and pigmentation — from well-established topical ingredients to approved and unapproved injectables. The legal and safety flags here vary more than in any other category, so they're worth a look.
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 observationalCopper 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 / preclinicalMT-2, MT-II
A melanocortin-receptor agonist that reliably produces tanning with minimal UV, plus reported libido and appetite effects — it works, which is exactly why its risk profile matters. Documented adverse events (darkening moles, blood-pressure effects) and rapidly tightening legal status make it one of the highest-risk entries in this library.
PT-141 (Bremelanotide)
Human RCTVyleesi, Bremelanotide
A melanocortin-receptor agonist approved as bremelanotide (Vyleesi) for premenopausal women with HSDD. Other uses are off-label.
Afamelanotide
Human RCTMelanotan 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.
Argireline
Human observationalAcetyl 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.