GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring copper complex first identified in human plasma. Copper peptides are small, naturally occurring protein fragments that have a high affinity for copper ions, which are critical to normal body function. The human peptide GHK (glycyl-l-histidyl-l-lysine) has multiple biological actions that appear to have benefits. It stimulates blood vessel and nerve outgrowth, increases collagen, elastin, and glycosaminoglycan synthesis, as well as supports the function of dermal fibroblasts. It seems to act as a potent protector of tissue and anti-inflammatory agent that controls the oxidative damage that occurs post-tissue injury. It then plays a significant role in signalling tissue remodelling which removes damaged/scarred tissue and generates new, healthy tissue. However, these positive effects decline with age because the concentration of GHK-Cu in the body decreases with age. Thus, there is an increase in inflammation, cancerous activity, and tissue destruction.

Melanotan 2 is a synthetic cyclic lactam analogue of naturally occurring α-MSH (melanocytestimulating hormone), a trimmed version of Melanotan I with a longer half-life. Melanocortins (MCs) are multifunctional peptide hormones that regulate a diversity of physiological functions. Melanocyte stimulating hormone (MSH) has been shown to control skin colouration/pigmentation in humans. The pigment melanin is produced in melanosomes by melanocytes in a complex process called melanogenesis. Melanin is the principal determinant factor of skin, hair, and eye colour. It has a significant role in photoprotection due to its ability to absorb ultraviolet radiation (UVR). Melanocytes interact intrinsically with endocrine, immune, inflammatory, and central nervous systems. Its activity is regulated by extrinsic factors such as ultraviolet radiation and drugs. Melanotan II has the same mechanism as Melanotan I but does cross the blood-brain barrier. There are five melanocortin receptors MC1R – MC5R. These receptors have been identified to show specific tissue expression patterns and binding affinities for each of the melanocortin hormones. The central melanocortin system MC3R & MC4R receptors play a fundamental role in the control of feeding and body weight.