Peptide Research Database

Research-backed information on peptides — dosage, half-life, risks, and the latest peer-reviewed studies from PubMed.

91peptides
11categories
1214research papers

Botulinum Toxin

Beauty

A neurotoxin produced by Clostridium botulinum bacteria — the most potent biological toxin known, yet one of the most widely used cosmetic and medical treatments globally. In precisely controlled doses, it temporarily paralyzes targeted muscles by blocking acetylcholine release at the neuromuscular junction. FDA-approved for cosmetic wrinkle reduction and numerous medical conditions including chronic migraine, hyperhidrosis, and cervical dystonia.

Half-life:Effects persist 2160-4320 hours (3-6 months); toxin itself degrades within days at the injection site

GHK-Cu

BeautyAnti-AgingHealing

A naturally occurring tripeptide (Gly-His-Lys) with extremely high copper binding affinity, found throughout the human body with declining levels after age 20. The most extensively studied cosmetic peptide, with proven effects on collagen synthesis, skin remodeling, wound healing, and antioxidant defense. Modulates the expression of over 4,000 human genes, resetting gene expression toward a younger, more regenerative profile.

Half-life:Topical: variable (local effect) | Injectable: 1-2 hours

Glutathione

Anti-AgingBeauty

A tripeptide (glutamate-cysteine-glycine) and the body's master antioxidant, present in every human cell at millimolar concentrations. Essential for detoxification, immune function, and protection against oxidative stress. Widely used for skin brightening (inhibits melanin synthesis), liver support, and systemic antioxidant therapy. Available in IV, oral, and intramuscular formulations.

Half-life:Intracellular: hours (continuously recycled via glutathione reductase) | IV: rapidly distributed to tissues

Hyaluronic Acid

BeautyHealing

A naturally occurring glycosaminoglycan found in connective tissue, skin, and synovial fluid throughout the body. Essential for tissue hydration, joint lubrication, and skin volume. Used in multiple formulations — dermal fillers for cosmetic volume, intra-articular injections for osteoarthritis, topical serums for skin hydration, and oral supplements. Available in low, medium, and high molecular weight forms with different biological effects.

Half-life:Intra-articular: 24-72 hours (1-3 days) | Dermal filler: 4320-12960 hours (6-18 months) depending on cross-linking

KPV

ImmuneHealingBeauty

A tripeptide (Lys-Pro-Val) derived from the C-terminal end of alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone. Retains the potent anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory activity of full α-MSH without causing skin tanning or sexual side effects. One of the cleanest anti-inflammatory peptides available, effective via oral, injectable, and topical routes.

Half-life:0.5-1 hours

Lemon Bottle

BeautyWeight Loss

A branded lipolytic injection from South Korea containing riboflavin (vitamin B2), lecithin (phosphatidylcholine), and bromelain (pineapple enzyme). Marketed as a fat-dissolving solution for localized fat reduction through direct injection into subcutaneous fat deposits. A cosmetic treatment for targeted areas rather than a systemic weight loss solution.

Half-life:Components metabolized within hours; visible effects develop over 2-4 weeks

Melanotan I

Beauty

Afamelanotide (Scenesse) — a linear analogue of alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone that selectively activates melanocortin 1 receptors (MC1R) for eumelanin production and UV protection. FDA-approved for erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP), a painful sun sensitivity disorder. More selective than Melanotan II, producing skin tanning without significant sexual arousal or appetite suppression side effects.

Half-life:0.5 hours (melanin production effects persist for weeks after dosing)

Melanotan II

BeautySexual Health

A synthetic cyclic analogue of alpha-MSH and a non-selective melanocortin receptor agonist. Produces skin tanning (MC1R), sexual arousal (MC3R/MC4R), and appetite suppression (MC4R) simultaneously due to its broad receptor activation profile. One of the most widely used unregulated peptides globally, primarily for cosmetic tanning and sexual enhancement, despite significant safety concerns.

Half-life:1 hour

SNAP-8

Beauty

Acetyl octapeptide-3, marketed as 'Botox in a bottle' — a topical peptide designed to reduce facial expression wrinkles by partially inhibiting the SNARE complex responsible for neuromuscular signal transmission. A non-invasive alternative to botulinum toxin injections, though with milder effects. One of the most commercially successful cosmetic peptides, widely used in premium anti-aging skincare products.

Half-life:Not applicable (topical, not systemically absorbed)

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