ACTH vs Gamma-MSH
Head-to-head comparison of ACTH (Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (Corticotropin)) and Gamma-MSH (Gamma-Melanocyte-Stimulating Hormone) — benefits, dosing, side effects, research data, and where to buy.
| Property | ACTH | Gamma-MSH |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Skin & Cosmetic | Skin & Cosmetic |
| Full Name | Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (Corticotropin) | Gamma-Melanocyte-Stimulating Hormone |
| Molecular Weight | 4541 Da | N/A |
| Half-Life | ~10 minutes | Minutes |
| Amino Acids | 39 | 12 |
| Typical Dose | 10–1000 nM | 10–500 nM |
| Route | In vitro / ex vivo | In vitro / ex vivo |
| Purity | ≥98% | ≥98% |
| Studies Count | 500 | 45 |
| Research Status | Clinical/Pre-clinical | Pre-clinical |
ACTH Benefits
- ✓Stimulates melanogenesis
- ✓Supports eumelanin production
- ✓Useful for pigmentation-pathway research
- ✓May model UV-response signaling
Gamma-MSH Benefits
- ✓Melanocortin signaling
- ✓Pigment-pathway research
- ✓May modulate melanocyte activity
- ✓Useful for UV-response studies
ACTH Dosing
10 nM exposure|100 nM exposure|1 uM exposure
Gamma-MSH Dosing
10 nM exposure|100 nM exposure|1 uM exposure
ACTH Side Effects
- ⚠Receptor desensitization
- ⚠Off-target melanocortin signaling
- ⚠Rapid proteolysis
Gamma-MSH Side Effects
- ⚠Short peptide half-life
- ⚠Receptor promiscuity
- ⚠Limited metabolic stability
Research Overview
ACTH
ACTH activates melanocortin receptors on melanocytes and can increase pigment synthesis. It is widely used as a reference peptide in studies of tanning, adrenal biology, and hyperpigmentation.
Gamma-MSH
Gamma-MSH has been investigated as part of the broader melanocortin network that regulates pigmentation. Evidence suggests it can contribute to melanocyte signaling, though its cosmetic use remains experimental.
Ready to buy?
Find both peptides from our verified, lab-tested vendors with purity certificates and third-party testing.