ACTH vs Hexapeptide-9
Head-to-head comparison of ACTH (Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (Corticotropin)) and Hexapeptide-9 (Hexapeptide-9) — benefits, dosing, side effects, research data, and where to buy.
Research Score
| Property | ACTH | Hexapeptide-9 |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Skin & Cosmetic | Skin & Cosmetic |
| Full Name | Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (Corticotropin) | Hexapeptide-9 |
| Molecular Weight | 4541 Da | 681.7 Da |
| Half-Life | ~10 minutes | N/A |
| Amino Acids | 39 | 6 |
| Typical Dose | 10–1000 nM | 0.01-1% in cosmetic formulations |
| Route | In vitro / ex vivo | Topical |
| Purity | ≥98% | ≥98% |
| Studies Count | 500 | 12 |
| Research Status | Clinical/Pre-clinical | Pre-clinical |
ACTH Benefits
- ✓Stimulates melanogenesis
- ✓Supports eumelanin production
- ✓Useful for pigmentation-pathway research
- ✓May model UV-response signaling
Hexapeptide-9 Benefits
- ✓skin-repair support
- ✓collagen-matrix support
- ✓fine-line appearance reduction
- ✓topical rejuvenation
ACTH Dosing
10 nM exposure|100 nM exposure|1 uM exposure
Hexapeptide-9 Dosing
Topical serum/cream 0.01-1%|Apply once or twice daily|Use consistently for visible cosmetic effects
ACTH Side Effects
- ⚠Receptor desensitization
- ⚠Off-target melanocortin signaling
- ⚠Rapid proteolysis
Hexapeptide-9 Side Effects
- ⚠mild redness
- ⚠temporary stinging
- ⚠sensitivity in reactive skin
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.
Hexapeptide-9
Hexapeptide-9 appears in scientific and cosmetic literature related to wound repair, cell migration, and extracellular matrix support. The evidence base is smaller than for more established peptides, but it is a real research-backed cosmetic ingredient.
Ready to buy?
Find both peptides from our verified, lab-tested vendors with purity certificates and third-party testing.