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Cosmetic & skin peptides

Topical cosmetic peptides (regulated as cosmetics) sit alongside injectable products (regulated as medicines). The regulatory category, not the marketing, decides the rules.

Regulation note: Topical cosmetic peptides are generally low-risk and lawfully sold. Injectable “skin” peptides are a different, medicines-regulation question.

Topical / cosmetic

GHK-Cu

Copper tripeptide-1

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

Not for human use

Melanotan II

Melanocortin agonist

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

Food / supplement

Collagen peptides

Hydrolysed collagen

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

Topical / cosmetic

Argireline

Acetyl Hexapeptide-8

A topical cosmetic peptide used in skincare formulations.

Topical / cosmetic

Matrixyl

Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4

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

Registered (specialist)

Afamelanotide (Scenesse)

Alpha-MSH analogue

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

Topical / cosmetic

SNAP-8

Acetyl Octapeptide-3

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

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.