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Peptides for skin

Peptides come up in two very different skin contexts: topical cosmetic ingredients (regulated as cosmetics) and injectable products (regulated as medicines). They are not the same category.

Regulation note: Cosmetic peptides in topicals sit under cosmetic-regulation rules. Injectable peptide products fall under medicines regulation — most marketed online are not ARTG-approved.

Topical / cosmetic

GHK-Cu

Copper tripeptide-1

A naturally occurring copper-binding peptide used widely in topical skincare formulations.

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Not for human use

Melanotan II

Melanocortin agonist

A synthetic peptide promoted for skin tanning, sold illicitly online and via some gyms.

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Food / supplement

Collagen peptides

Hydrolysed collagen

Hydrolysed collagen, sold as a dietary supplement and food ingredient.

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Topical / cosmetic

Argireline

Acetyl Hexapeptide-8

A topical cosmetic peptide used in skincare formulations.

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Topical / cosmetic

Matrixyl

Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4

A topical cosmetic peptide used in anti-ageing skincare formulations.

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Registered (specialist)

Afamelanotide (Scenesse)

Alpha-MSH analogue

A melanocortin analogue implant that increases melanin, used to protect skin in a rare light-sensitivity condition.

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Topical / cosmetic

SNAP-8

Acetyl Octapeptide-3

A topical cosmetic peptide used in anti-ageing skincare, related in concept to Argireline.

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Supplement / compounded

Glutathione

Antioxidant tripeptide

A naturally occurring antioxidant tripeptide, sold as an oral supplement and marketed in injectable “wellness” and skin-whitening contexts.

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Before considering anything in this category, read Are peptides legal in Australia? and Are peptides safe?. Then discuss any decision with a registered Australian health practitioner.

This is general education, not medical advice. Peptides.au does not sell, supply, recommend or promote any product or clinic. Always speak with a registered Australian health practitioner before making any health decision.