Sprays & serums.

Recipes by peptide.

• N-Acetyl Semax Amidate Home-made Semax nasal sprays are among the most common DIY peptide sprays. People dissolve a 5–30 mg vial in saline… 8 recipes
• N-Acetyl Selank Amidate Selank is made into home-made nasal sprays the same way as Semax, usually 5–10 mg in 5–10 mL of saline, bacteriostatic water or a… 6 recipes
• DSIP DSIP is used as a nasal spray, mostly bought ready-made from vendors or compounding pharmacies; a few users make their own by… 4 recipes
• PT-141 PT-141 (bremelanotide) was first developed as a nasal spray and tested at 7.5–20 mg per dose; the maker later moved to injection… 4 recipes
• VIP VIP nasal spray is a clinic treatment in Dr. Ritchie Shoemaker’s mould-illness (CIRS) protocol: a compounded spray, 50 mcg four… 3 recipes
• Adamax A few users make Adamax (a Semax derivative) into nasal sprays the same way as Semax: a 7.5–10 mg vial in 5–10 mL of… 3 recipes
• NAD+ NAD+ nasal sprays are sold by at least one US compounding pharmacy (Empower, 300 mg per mL) and by vendors (for example 1,000 mg… 3 recipes
• MOTS-c A few people use vendor-made MOTS-c nasal sprays, and one user made their own (10 mg in 5 mL, 2–3 sprays per nostril). Most… 2 recipes
• BPC-157 BPC-157 is sold ready-made as a nasal spray (often with TB-500) and some users make their own by dissolving the powder in… 2 recipes
• Thymosin Beta-4 TB-500 is sold as a ready-made nasal spray (alone or with BPC-157), and at least one user made their own with saline. Users doubt… 2 recipes
• Melanotan II Melanotan II ‘nasal tanners’ are widely sold, often as kits of two 10 mg vials, sterile water and an empty spray bottle to mix at… 2 recipes
• Epitalon Epitalon is sold ready-made as a nasal spray (for example 10 mg in 10 mL), and a few users make their own; common use is 1–2… 2 recipes
• Selank / Semax People do turn Selank 10 mg / Semax 10 mg combo vials into one nasal spray, using the same maths as for a single peptide, applied… 2 recipes
• Tesamorelin Only a vendor-made tesamorelin nasal spray was found (4 mg per bottle, 13.33 mcg per spray), bought by one user who realised a 2… 1 recipe
• Sermorelin Sermorelin’s peptide, GHRH(1-29), was tested intranasally in 1980s–90s trials. Absorption was only 3–5%; in a 6-month children’s… 1 recipe
• CJC-1295 (no DAC) Some vendors sell CJC-1295 (often with ipamorelin) as a nasal spray, and at least one user takes CJC/ipamorelin by nasal atomizer… 1 recipe
• Ipamorelin Compounders and wellness clinics have sold ipamorelin as a nasal spray, and some users take it that way. In rats about 20% of a… 1 recipe
• Melanotan I A few users take melanotan I (or tanning peptides generally) as vendor or home-made nasal sprays; one household mixes a 10 mg vial… 1 recipe

Collected source statements.

Attribution does not validate a generalized preparation or storage limit. A negative search means no recipe was found in reviewed sources, not that no recipe exists.

• How much one spray delivers (approved products)

  Approved metered nasal sprays in the US deliver a fixed amount per press, usually 0.09–0.1 mL (90–100 microliters). Examples: desmopressin and Stimate 0.1 mL, calcitonin 0.09 mL, naloxone (Narcan) 0.1 mL, ketorolac (Sprix) 100 microliters.

  Sources (5)

  • ManufacturerDesmopressin Nasal Spray, USP – FDA label (Apotex), DailyMed (opens in a new tab)

    “Desmopressin nasal spray pump delivers 10 mcg (0.1 mL) of desmopressin acetate per spray.”

  • ManufacturerSTIMATE (desmopressin) nasal spray – FDA label (Ferring), DailyMed (opens in a new tab)

    “STIMATE pump delivers 150 mcg (0.1 mL) of desmopressin acetate per spray.”

  • ManufacturerCalcitonin Salmon Nasal Spray – FDA label (Apotex), DailyMed (opens in a new tab)

    “A primed pump delivers 0.09 mL (200 USP Calcitonin Salmon Units) calcitonin salmon per actuation.”

  • ManufacturerNARCAN (naloxone) Nasal Spray – FDA label, DailyMed (opens in a new tab)

    “Each NARCAN Nasal Spray contains a 4 mg single dose of naloxone hydrochloride (equivalent to 3.6 mg of Naloxone) in a 0.1 mL (100 microliter) aqueous solution.”

  • ManufacturerSPRIX (ketorolac) nasal spray – FDA label, DailyMed (opens in a new tab)

    “The delivery system is designed to administer precisely metered doses of 100 µL per spray.”

• Pump sizes from pump makers and DIY bottle sellers

  Pharmaceutical nasal pumps are made in fixed sizes. Aptar says its VP3 is the most widely used multi-dose spray pump in the world; VP3 and Aptar’s CPS nasal pump come in sizes from 50 to 140 microliters (0.05–0.14 mL) per press. A 2026 review says many pumps meter about 50–100 microliters. Empty 10 mL bottles sold for DIY use are listed at 0.1–0.13 mL per press.

  Sources (5)

  • ManufacturerAptar Pharma – VP3 Technology Platform (nasal spray pump) page, archived 6 Dec 2019 (opens in a new tab)

    “VP3 is the most widely used multidose spray pump in the world for local and systemic pharmaceutical applications.”

  • ManufacturerAptar Pharma – VP3 Technology Platform page (dose volumes), archived 6 Dec 2019 (opens in a new tab)

    “Wide range of dose volumes: 50 µl to 140 µl”

  • ManufacturerAptar Pharma – CPS Technology Platform (nasal spray pump) page, archived 6 Dec 2019 (opens in a new tab)

    “Wide range of dose volumes: 50 µl to 140 µl”

  • ReviewIntranasal drug delivery: unlocking the nose-to-brain route for CNS therapies – Int J Pharm X (2026) (opens in a new tab)

    “many pumps meter ∼50–100 μL per actuation”

  • SupplierNootropics Depot – Empty Spray Bottle (10 mL) product page (opens in a new tab)

    “Each depress of the nozzle will deliver 0.1-0.13ml of liquid.”

• How much liquid one nostril holds

  About 0.1 mL per nostril is the ideal amount and about 0.15 mL is the most a nostril holds in an adult. Larger amounts tend to run out of the nose or down the throat and get swallowed.

  Sources (4)

  • ReviewIntranasal delivery of medications for neurologic conditions: a pharmacology update – J Neurosci Nurs (2024) (opens in a new tab)

    “Because of the limited volume of the nasal cavity, the optimal volume of an intranasal dose is limited to 100 to 150 μL per nostril.”

  • ReviewIntranasal delivery of medications for neurologic conditions: a pharmacology update – J Neurosci Nurs (2024) (opens in a new tab)

    “larger dose volumes (>150 μL) are associated with leakage out of the nostrils or swallowing.”

  • ReviewThe nose has it: intranasal drug administration for neurologic conditions – Epilepsy Behav Rep (2023) (opens in a new tab)

    “the optimal administration volume is 100 µL (maximum 150 µL) per nostril in an adult”

  • ReviewNose-to-brain (N2B) delivery of biologics – Pharmaceutics (2023) (opens in a new tab)

    “nasal drug delivery is limited by the applicable volume of about 150 µL per nostril for adults”

• Priming a new pump, and the liquid that is lost

  A new pump must be primed before the first dose: labels say 4–6 presses, or press until a full spray or fine mist appears. Some pumps need re-priming after a few days to a week unused. Bottles are overfilled for priming, and the last part of the liquid cannot be sprayed reliably, so labels say to throw the bottle away after the counted number of doses even if liquid remains. For example, a 3.7 mL calcitonin bottle is labelled for 30 doses of 0.09 mL.

  Sources (6)

  • ManufacturerDesmopressin Nasal Spray, USP – FDA label (Apotex), DailyMed (opens in a new tab)

    “Prime pump by pressing down on pump four times (if the spray pump is not used for one week, re-prime the pump by pressing down on the pump once).”

  • ManufacturerDesmopressin Nasal Spray, USP – Instructions for Use (Apotex), DailyMed (opens in a new tab)

    “Do not count the priming sprays. Your desmopressin nasal spray has been filled with extra medicine for your priming sprays.”

  • ManufacturerSTIMATE (desmopressin) nasal spray – FDA label, DailyMed (opens in a new tab)

    “Prime STIMATE before initial use by releasing 6 sprays or until a fine mist appears.”

  • ManufacturerCalcitonin Salmon Nasal Solution – FDA label (Par), DailyMed (opens in a new tab)

    “after 30 doses, each spray may not deliver the correct amount of medication even if the bottle is not completely empty.”

  • ManufacturerSPRIX (ketorolac) nasal spray – Instructions for Use, DailyMed (opens in a new tab)

    “Press down on the finger flange and release the pump 5 times. You may not see a spray the first few times you press down.”

  • ReviewFDA Guidance for Industry: Nasal Spray and Inhalation Solution, Suspension, and Spray Drug Products – CMC Documentation (opens in a new tab)

    “after the point at which the labeled number of sprays have been dispensed until no more sprays are possible (i.e., the container is empty)”

• Preservatives used in approved nasal sprays

  Most multi-dose nasal sprays contain a preservative, most often benzalkonium chloride (in 52–59% of the nasal medicines approved for children in a survey of three European countries). Others use chlorobutanol, phenylethyl alcohol, methylparaben (the Russian Semax and Selank drops) or benzyl alcohol. Benzyl alcohol, the preservative in bacteriostatic water, is listed in some approved over-the-counter sprays: Afrin No Drip, and 0.65% saline sprays, which name it ‘phenylcarbinol’.

  Sources (9)

  • ManufacturerDesmopressin Nasal Spray, USP – FDA label (Apotex), composition table (opens in a new tab)

    “Benzalkonium chloride solution (50% w/v) 0.2 mg”

  • ManufacturerNARCAN (naloxone) Nasal Spray – FDA label, DailyMed (opens in a new tab)

    “Inactive ingredients include benzalkonium chloride (preservative), disodium ethylenediaminetetraacetate (stabilizer), sodium chloride, hydrochloric acid to adjust pH, and purified water.”

  • ManufacturerCalcitonin Salmon Nasal Solution – FDA label (Par), DailyMed (opens in a new tab)

    “Inactive Ingredients: sodium chloride, chlorobutanol (possesses a characteristic odor), hydrochloric acid (added as necessary to adjust pH), purified water and nitrogen.”

  • ManufacturerFLONASE Allergy Relief (fluticasone) – OTC label, DailyMed (opens in a new tab)

    “benzalkonium chloride, dextrose, microcrystalline cellulose, phenylethylalcohol, polysorbate 80, purified water, sodium carboxymethylcellulose”

  • ManufacturerAFRIN No Drip Original Pump Mist (oxymetazoline) – OTC label, DailyMed (opens in a new tab)

    “benzalkonium chloride solution, benzyl alcohol, edetate disodium, flavor, microcrystalline cellulose and carboxymethylcellulose sodium, polyethylene glycol, povidone, purified water, sodium phosphate dibasic, sodium phosphate monobasic”

  • ManufacturerWalmart Saline Nasal Spray (sodium chloride 0.65%) – OTC label, DailyMed (opens in a new tab)

    “benzalkonium chloride, disodium phosphate, monosodium phosphate, phenylcarbinol, Purified Water”

  • ReviewPubChem – Benzyl alcohol (CID 244), synonyms (opens in a new tab)

    “phenylcarbinol”

  • StudyStjepanovic et al. Pharmaceutical excipients with potential to cause adverse effects in paediatric nasal medicines – Regul Toxicol Pharmacol (2022) (opens in a new tab)

    “Benzalkonium chloride was found in 52.38%, 55.81% and 59.09% of these products in Serbia, Croatia and Slovenia, respectively.”

  • ManufacturerSemax 0.1% nasal drops – official instructions (Peptogen, Russia) (opens in a new tab)

    “семакса в пересчете на 100% вещество – 1 г, метилпарагидроксибензоата (Нипагина) – 1 г, вода очищенная до 1 л.”

• Bacteriostatic water and bacteriostatic saline: what they are

  Bacteriostatic water contains 0.9% benzyl alcohol (9 mg per mL) and is labelled for diluting or dissolving drugs for injection; its label does not cover use in the nose. Bacteriostatic sodium chloride is 0.9% salt water with the same 0.9% benzyl alcohol. Their labels give pH 5.7 and pH 5.0 respectively (range 4.5–7.0), which overlaps the range the nose tolerates.

  Sources (4)

  • ManufacturerBacteriostatic Water for Injection, USP – FDA label, DailyMed (opens in a new tab)

    “containing 0.9% (9 mg/mL) of benzyl alcohol added as a bacteriostatic preservative”

  • ManufacturerBacteriostatic Water for Injection, USP – FDA label, DailyMed (opens in a new tab)

    “repeated withdrawals may be made to dilute or dissolve drugs for injection. The pH is 5.7 (4.5 to 7.0).”

  • ManufacturerBacteriostatic 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP (Hospira) – FDA label, DailyMed (opens in a new tab)

    “Each milliliter (mL) contains sodium chloride 9 mg and 0.9% (9 mg/mL) benzyl alcohol added as a bacteriostatic preservative.”

  • ManufacturerBacteriostatic 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP (Hospira) – FDA label, DailyMed (opens in a new tab)

    “The pH is 5.0 (4.5 to 7.0).”

• Preservatives and irritation of the nose

  EU labelling guidance says nasal products containing benzalkonium chloride should warn that it may cause irritation or swelling inside the nose, especially with long use. In lab studies on human nasal cells it slowed or stopped the beating hairs (cilia) that clear the nose, while methylparaben, propylparaben and chlorobutanol were gentler. For benzyl alcohol, the EU’s labelling warning is allergic reactions; this search found no label or study measuring stinging or damage from 0.9% benzyl alcohol in the nose. Reports that bacteriostatic water ‘burns’ come from users.

  Sources (5)

  • ReviewEMA – Annex to the European Commission guideline on excipients in the labelling and package leaflet (EMA/CHMP/302620/2017 Rev. 2) (opens in a new tab)

    “Benzalkonium chloride may cause irritation or swelling inside the nose, especially if used for a long time.”

  • ReviewEMA – Annex to the European Commission guideline on excipients (Rev. 2), benzyl alcohol entry (opens in a new tab)

    “Benzyl alcohol may cause allergic reactions.”

  • StudyMallants et al. Effect of preservatives on ciliary beat frequency in human nasal epithelial cell culture – Int J Pharm (2007) (opens in a new tab)

    “Benzalkonium chloride decreased CBF non-reversibly.”

  • StudyMallants et al. – Int J Pharm (2007), conclusion (opens in a new tab)

    “In conclusion, methylparaben, propylparaben and chlorbutol can be considered as cilio-friendly.”

  • StudyJiao et al. Effect of topical corticosteroids, antihistamines and preservatives on human ciliary beat frequency – ORL (2014) (opens in a new tab)

    “BKC resulted in an irreversible ciliostasis at 0.005 or 0.01% concentrations”

• pH range the nose tolerates

  The healthy nasal lining sits at about pH 5.5–6.5, and reviews recommend keeping nasal liquids at about pH 4.5–6.5 to limit irritation. Approved sprays fall in or near this range: naloxone (Narcan) pH 3.5–5.5, vitamin B12 (Nascobal) pH 4.5–5.5.

  Sources (4)

  • ReviewNose-to-brain (N2B) delivery of biologics – Pharmaceutics (2023) (opens in a new tab)

    “The pH of the healthy nasal epithelium is 5.5–6.5; a pH lower than 5.5 or higher than 6.5 may cause local adverse effects and affect drug permeation.”

  • ReviewIntranasal drug delivery: unlocking the nose-to-brain route for CNS therapies – Int J Pharm X (2026) (opens in a new tab)

    “maintaining the pH of the formulations (especially liquid formulations) within the range of 4.5 to 6.5 ensures optimal drug permeation, minimises nasal irritation, and inhibits bacterial growth.”

  • ManufacturerNARCAN (naloxone) Nasal Spray – FDA label, DailyMed (opens in a new tab)

    “The pH range is 3.5 to 5.5.”

  • ManufacturerNASCOBAL (cyanocobalamin) Nasal Spray – FDA label, DailyMed (opens in a new tab)

    “The spray solution has a pH between 4.5 and 5.5.”

• Sterility and contamination of multi-use sprays

  FDA’s guidance sets microbial limits for nasal sprays rather than requiring them to be sterile (water-based solutions inhaled into the lungs must be sterile), and it expects an approved spray not to support microbial growth for its whole shelf life. That is why multi-dose bottles carry a preservative or use a special preservative-free pump with a sealing tip. Preservative-free Sprix must be thrown away within 24 hours. In a study of 25 people using nasal steroid sprays, 72% had staph bacteria growing both in the nose and on the bottle tip; boiling water, alcohol wipes or microwaving cleaned the tips, while cold water or dish soap did not.

  Sources (7)

  • ReviewFDA Guidance for Industry: Nasal Spray and Inhalation Solution, Suspension, and Spray Drug Products – CMC Documentation (opens in a new tab)

    “appropriate testing should show that the drug product does not support the growth of microorganisms and that microbiological quality is maintained throughout the expiration dating period.”

  • ReviewFDA Guidance for Industry: Nasal Spray and Inhalation ... Drug Products – CMC Documentation (opens in a new tab)

    “Aqueous-based oral inhalation solutions and suspension must be sterile (21 CFR 200.51).”

  • StudyBagel & Wiedemann. Extension of in-use stability of preservative-free nasalia – Eur J Pharm Biopharm (2004) (opens in a new tab)

    “multi-dose containers that usually include suitable levels of an appropriate preservative in order to kill or prevent growth of any microorganisms which might enter the dispensing system”

  • ManufacturerAptar Pharma – Advanced Preservative Free Nasal Pump page, archived 22 Nov 2019 (opens in a new tab)

    “The Advanced Preservative Free (APF) system, however, uses a tip-seal/filter technology to prevent contamination of the formulation.”

  • ManufacturerSPRIX (ketorolac) nasal spray – Instructions for Use, DailyMed (opens in a new tab)

    “SPRIX does not contain a preservative. Throw away each SPRIX bottle within 24 hours of taking your first dose”

  • StudyTan et al. Is nasal steroid spray bottle contamination a potential issue in chronic rhinosinusitis? – J Laryngol Otol (2014) (opens in a new tab)

    “For 18 of the 25 (72 per cent) patients, both nasal and bottle tip swabs grew either Staphylococcus aureus or coagulase-negative staphylococci.”

  • StudyTan et al. – J Laryngol Otol (2014) (opens in a new tab)

    “Sterilisation was effective with boiling water, ethanol wipes and microwaving, but not with cold water or dishwashing liquid.”

• Storing and throwing away nasal sprays

  Storage rules differ by product. Calcitonin nasal spray (a peptide): fridge until opened, then room temperature for up to 35 days. Desmopressin sprays (also peptides) are kept at room temperature; Stimate is thrown away 6 months after opening. Russian Semax 0.1% drops: 30 days after opening at up to 25 °C; Selank drops: 15 days. For non-sterile pharmacy-made water-based preparations without their own stability data, the US default use-by is 14 days in the fridge without a preservative, or 35 days for preserved preparations. A 2025 study of a pharmacy-made amiloride nasal spray preserved with benzyl alcohol found it chemically stable for 50 days in the fridge or at room temperature.

  Sources (8)

  • ManufacturerCalcitonin Salmon Nasal Solution – FDA label (Par), DailyMed (opens in a new tab)

    “Store unopened bottle in refrigerator between 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F).”

  • ManufacturerCalcitonin Salmon Nasal Solution – FDA label (Par), DailyMed (opens in a new tab)

    “Store bottle in use at room temperature between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F) in an upright position, for up to 35 days.”

  • ManufacturerDesmopressin Nasal Spray, USP – FDA label (Apotex), DailyMed (opens in a new tab)

    “Store at 25°C (77°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature]; excursions permitted from 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F).”

  • ManufacturerSTIMATE (desmopressin) nasal spray – FDA label, DailyMed (opens in a new tab)

    “Discard STIMATE six months after being opened.”

  • ManufacturerSemax 0.1% nasal drops – official instructions (Peptogen, Russia) (opens in a new tab)

    “Вскрытый флакон хранить при температуре не выше 25°С не более 30 дней.”

  • ManufacturerSelank 0.15% nasal drops – official instructions (Peptogen, Russia) (opens in a new tab)

    “Вскрытый флакон хранить при температуре не выше 25°С не более 15 дней.”

  • ReviewStability assessment of furosemide oral suspension in hospital extemporaneous preparations (summary of USP beyond-use dates) – Pharmaceuticals (Basel) (2025) (opens in a new tab)

    “For non-preserved aqueous preparations, the assigned BUD is 14 days under refrigeration, whereas for preserved aqueous preparations, the assigned BUD is 35 days under controlled room temperature and refrigeration.”

  • StudyRenninger et al. Real-time stability of extemporaneously compounded amiloride nasal spray – Int J Pharm Compd (2025) (opens in a new tab)

    “amiloride remained highly chemically stable over 50 days at 4 and 20 degrees Celsius”

Per spray. What one press gives.

This does arithmetic only. It doesn’t tell you what amount to use.

Recipes by peptide.

• GHK-Cu GHK-Cu is by far the most common peptide used on the skin and scalp. People buy cosmetic-grade powder (often 1 g ampules) and stir… 13 recipes
• Snap-8 Snap-8 (acetyl octapeptide-3) is a cosmetic anti-wrinkle peptide made to go into creams and serums. Cosmetic makers use a… 6 recipes
• AHK-Cu AHK-Cu is used almost only as a home-made or bought scalp serum or spray for thinning hair, usually at about 1% in a hyaluronic… 5 recipes
• BPC-157 BPC-157 is sometimes put on the skin, either as a compounded cream, a ready-made cream from a peptide seller, or by stirring… 3 recipes
• Thymosin Beta-4 Thymosin beta-4 has been tested as a prescription-style skin gel (RGN-137) in phase 2 trials for leg ulcers, pressure ulcers and a… 2 recipes
• KPV KPV has been sold as a compounded skin cream (15 mg per mL) for psoriasis and other inflammatory skin problems, and some users… 2 recipes
• AOD-9604 AOD-9604 was sold by compounding pharmacies as a cream rubbed into the skin, and users applied it over ‘stubborn fat’. It is meant… 1 recipe
• CJC-1295 (no DAC) A CJC-1295/ipamorelin cream exists as a product, meant to work through the skin. One user used it for two cycles and saw little… 1 recipe
• Ipamorelin A CJC-1295/ipamorelin cream exists as a product, meant to work through the skin. One user used it for two cycles and saw little… 1 recipe
• LL-37 LL-37 has been tested as a topical treatment for hard-to-heal venous leg ulcers in two clinical trials. No home-made or cosmetic… 1 recipe
• NAD+ NAD+ is sold as a cosmetic ingredient for serums and creams. One supplier gives a use level of 0.5–1% and warns it breaks down… 1 recipe

Collected source statements.

Attribution does not validate a generalized preparation or storage limit. A negative search means no recipe was found in reviewed sources, not that no recipe exists.

• Why water-based home-made products need a preservative

  Any product that contains water (serums, toners, lotions, sprays, hyaluronic acid bases) can grow bacteria, yeast and mould. Formulators say it needs a broad-spectrum preservative, meaning one that works against bacteria, yeast and mould. Contamination is often invisible: a spoiled product can look and smell normal. The FDA lists poor preservation, contaminated water or ingredients, poor packaging and dipping fingers into the product as ways cosmetics become contaminated.

  Sources (5)

  • FormulatorHumblebee & Me (Marie Rayma, DIY formulator): The 10 Ingredients Beginners Need (opens in a new tab)

    “where water goes, a broad-spectrum preservative must go as well so our cosmetics don’t turn into fuzzy, mold-infested disasters.”

  • FormulatorHumblebee & Me: Natural Skincare Mistakes Most DIYers Make (opens in a new tab)

    “A lack of preservation can lead to all kinds of problems, from separation and mold growth to dangerous skin infections”

  • FormulatorFormula Botanica (formulation school): Natural Preservatives (opens in a new tab)

    “It is important to find a preservative system that is broad spectrum, meaning that it is effective against bacteria, mould and yeast.”

  • FormulatorFormula Botanica: Think your kitchen is clean enough? (opens in a new tab)

    “contamination is often completely invisible. Your products might look and smell perfectly fine, yet still not be safe to use.”

  • ReviewUS FDA: Microbiological Safety and Cosmetics (opens in a new tab)

    “Ineffective preservation system particularly for ingredients that encourage growth of microorganisms;”

• Common broad-spectrum preservatives and their use rates

  Use rates quoted by suppliers and formulators (percent of the whole batch by weight): Liquid Germall Plus 0.1–0.5%; Optiphen Plus 0.75–1.5%; phenoxyethanol with ethylhexylglycerin (Euxyl PE 9010 type) 0.5–1.0%, maximum 1.1%; Euxyl K 903 0.4–1.2%, only at pH 6 or below; Geogard ECT 0.6–1%. Plain phenoxyethanol on its own is weak against yeast and mould, so it is normally used as part of a blend. The EU allows phenoxyethanol at up to 1.0%. Humblebee & Me notes that Liquid Germall Plus is becoming harder to buy because Washington state has banned one of its ingredients (diazolidinyl urea), with the ban fully in force from 1 January 2027.

  Sources (11)

  • FormulatorHumblebee & Me encyclopedia: Liquid Germall Plus (opens in a new tab)

    “Usage rate 0.1-0.5%, though Ashland reports efficacy as low as 0.06% and recommends higher concentrations for more complex formulations.”

  • SupplierLotioncrafter (supplier): optiphen plus preservative (opens in a new tab)

    “Per Ashland, optiphen plus preservative should be used in cosmetic products at concentrations in the range of 0.75% to 1.5%.”

  • SupplierLotioncrafter (supplier): Lotioncrafter PE 9010 (opens in a new tab)

    “Recommended use levels: 0.5 - 1.0%, maximum use level 1.1%”

  • SupplierLotioncrafter (supplier): euxyl K 903 preservative (opens in a new tab)

    “The recommended pH range for formulations is between pH 3 - 6.”

  • SupplierLotioncrafter (supplier): euxyl K 903 preservative (opens in a new tab)

    “Recommended use levels: 0.4% - 1.2%.”

  • FormulatorHumblebee & Me encyclopedia: Geogard ECT (opens in a new tab)

    “Usage rate 0.6-1%”

  • SupplierLotioncrafter (supplier): Phenoxyethanol (opens in a new tab)

    “It is generally used in combination with other preservatives, in part because its activity is weak against yeast and mold.”

  • ReviewEU Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS), Opinion on Phenoxyethanol (2016) (opens in a new tab)

    “Phenoxyethanol is authorized as a preservative in cosmetic formulations at a maximum concentration of 1.0%.”

  • FormulatorHumblebee & Me: Soothing & Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum (opens in a new tab)

    “New American legislation in Washington state bans Diazolidinyl Urea—one of the three ingredients in Liquid Germall Plus.”

  • FormulatorHumblebee & Me: Soothing & Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum (opens in a new tab)

    “The ban doesn’t take full effect until January 1, 2027”

  • FormulatorHumblebee & Me: The 10 Ingredients Beginners Need (opens in a new tab)

    “Recent regulatory changes in the states of Washington and California mean Liquid Germall Plus is becoming harder to find”

• Weighing by weight, and the scale needed for milligram amounts

  Formulators measure every ingredient by weight in grams rather than by drops or spoons. They recommend a precision (jewellery) scale that reads to 0.01 g for small amounts such as preservatives and actives. Peptide sellers and DIY guides say that weighing milligram amounts of peptide powder needs a milligram scale that reads to 0.001 g; guessing or ‘eyeballing’ is the most common cause of wrong strength.

  Sources (5)

  • FormulatorHumblebee & Me encyclopedia: Precision Scale (opens in a new tab)

    “For DIY purposes I’ll say a “precision” scale is one that can weigh down to 0.01g (0.00035 ounces).”

  • FormulatorFormula Botanica: Cosmetic formulation kit (opens in a new tab)

    “We recommend getting some jewellery scales, which have 0.01 g precision.”

  • SupplierNatural Organic Skincare / Skin Perfection (supplier): GHK-Cu powder (opens in a new tab)

    “Weigh it. Powders are not measured in drops, and a small digital scale is the right tool here.”

  • VendorReal Peptides (peptide vendor): How to Make GHK-Cu Serum (opens in a new tab)

    “You need a scale that can accurately measure down to 0.001g (one milligram). A simple kitchen scale won’t work.”

  • VendorReal Peptides (peptide vendor): How to Make GHK-Cu Serum (opens in a new tab)

    “The most common error is imprecise measurement.”

• Add peptides in the cool-down phase

  Peptides are heat-sensitive. Ingredient suppliers say to add them at the very end, once the product has cooled below 40 °C (104 °F), and not to heat them. If a recipe heats water to dissolve a thickener, the peptide goes in only after it has cooled.

  Sources (5)

  • SupplierLotioncrafter (supplier): SNAP-8 peptide solution C (opens in a new tab)

    “Incorporation: Add at the end of the emulsion, at cool down, below 40C (104F).”

  • SupplierMySkinRecipes (ingredient supplier): GHK-Cu Serum Formulation Guide (opens in a new tab)

    “Always add the GHK-Cu solution to the cooled final product base. Do not heat the peptide.”

  • SupplierBulk Naturals (supplier): Acetyl Octapeptide-3 powder (opens in a new tab)

    “Application: Add during cool-down phase below 40°C (104°F)”

  • SupplierLotioncrafter (supplier): LCPeptide Copper (opens in a new tab)

    “Add LCPeptide Copper at the last step of processing.”

  • SupplierParchem (chemical distributor): GHK-Cu guide for formulators (opens in a new tab)

    “Heat: Avoid prolonged exposure above 40°C.”

• The pH range copper peptides need

  Suppliers put the working pH for copper peptides (GHK-Cu) between about 5 and 7 (Lotioncrafter and MySkinRecipes 5–7; The Formulator Shop 5.0–6.5; Parchem 5.0–7.0 and less stable below pH 4). A lab study found GHK-Cu stable in water and pH 4.5–7.4 buffers for at least two weeks at 60 °C, but broken down by alkaline and oxidising conditions. The Ordinary lists its own copper peptide serum at pH 6.00–7.00. Some DIY guides instead aim for the general ‘skin’ pH of 4.5–5.5, which overlaps only partly with the supplier range. A peptide chemist on r/DIYBeauty suggests buffering plain GHK-Cu solutions at about pH 7.0 (for example with triethanolamine).

  Sources (8)

  • SupplierLotioncrafter (supplier): LCPeptide Copper (opens in a new tab)

    “The final pH of the formulation should be pH 5-7.”

  • SupplierMySkinRecipes (ingredient supplier): GHK-Cu Serum Formulation Guide (opens in a new tab)

    “GHK-Cu is most stable and effective in the pH range of 5.0 to 7.0 .”

  • SupplierThe Formulator Shop (supplier): Copper Peptide (opens in a new tab)

    “the pH value is between 5.0 and 6.5 to maintain its structural integrity and biological activity”

  • SupplierParchem (chemical distributor): GHK-Cu guide for formulators (opens in a new tab)

    “pH: Optimal stability at pH 5.0-7.0. Less stable below pH 4 or in alkaline environments.”

  • StudyBadenhorst T et al., Pharm Dev Technol 2016 (lab study) (opens in a new tab)

    “the peptide was stable in water and in pH (4.5-7.4) buffers for at least two weeks at 60 °C.”

  • ManufacturerThe Ordinary: Multi-Peptide + Copper Peptides 1% Serum product page (opens in a new tab)

    “ph 6.00 - 7.00”

  • SupplierXclusiv Organics (ingredient supplier): How To Make 1% GHK-Cu Serum (opens in a new tab)

    “Check pH: Test your serum’s pH with strips or a meter. Aim for 4.5-5.5.”

  • ForumReddit r/DIYBeauty, u/CPhiltrus (Aug 2021) (opens in a new tab)

    “For the GHK-Cu peptide, I would use a buffer around pH 7.0, to keep the lysine positively charged and prevent Cu(OH)2 from precipitating out.”

• What not to mix with copper peptides

  Sources agree on some items and disagree on others. Agreed: do not put copper peptides in the same product as pure vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) or strong acids such as AHAs and BHAs; use them at opposite ends of the day. Chelating agents such as disodium EDTA (common in store-bought bases) pull the copper away and should be left out. Skin Biology (Dr Pickart’s company) also says not to mix its copper peptide into zinc-oxide sunscreens, and Lotioncrafter says not to add fruit acids or aloe vera extract. Retinoids: The Ordinary and several suppliers say keep them separate, while a skincare manufacturer says there is no clear chemical conflict with retinol. Niacinamide: most sources call it compatible, but one supplier says high levels may make the copper peptide less stable. A peptide chemist on r/DIYBeauty adds sodium gluconate (another chelator), phosphate buffers and citrate to the list, which conflicts with two supplier guides that suggest citric acid for adjusting pH.

  Sources (12)

  • ManufacturerSkin Biology (Dr Loren Pickart’s company): 7% GHK-Cu Accelerant (opens in a new tab)

    “Vitamin C products (the blend may become unstable) --- Hydroxy Acids (GHK is fragile and may break down)”

  • SupplierMySkinRecipes (ingredient supplier): GHK-Cu Serum Formulation Guide (opens in a new tab)

    “GHK-Cu should not be formulated with strong acids, especially L-Ascorbic Acid (pure Vitamin C) , as this can destabilize the peptide and the Vitamin C.”

  • ManufacturerThe Ordinary: Multi-Peptide + Copper Peptides 1% Serum product page (opens in a new tab)

    “We recommend avoiding the use of The Ordinary Multi-Peptide + Copper Peptides 1% Serum with other direct acids, retinoids, or strong antioxidants like vitamin C.”

  • SupplierLotioncrafter (supplier): LCPeptide Copper (opens in a new tab)

    “Chelating agents such as EDTA2-NA should not be added to the formula. The formula should not contain fruit acids or ionic plant extracts like aloe vera extract.”

  • SupplierThe Formulator Shop (supplier): Copper Peptide (opens in a new tab)

    “Do not add Disodium EDTA in the formula because Disodium EDTA will bind the Copper charge and make the Copper Peptide less effective.”

  • FormulatorMetro Private Label (skincare manufacturer): Ingredients to avoid in copper peptide formulas (opens in a new tab)

    “Retinol Formula-Dependent No clear direct copper-chelation conflict, but adds oxidation and stability complexity”

  • FormulatorMetro Private Label (skincare manufacturer): Ingredients to avoid in copper peptide formulas (opens in a new tab)

    “Niacinamide Lower Risk No obvious strong chelation or redox conflict Generally practical”

  • SupplierXclusiv Organics (ingredient supplier): How To Make 1% GHK-Cu Serum (opens in a new tab)

    “may be less stable when combined with high concentrations of vitamin C or niacinamide.”

  • SupplierNatural Organic Skincare / Skin Perfection (supplier): GHK-Cu powder (opens in a new tab)

    “GHK Copper Peptide is incompatible with Vitamin C, including MAP (Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate) or Ascorbic Acid.”

  • ForumReddit r/DIYBeauty, u/CPhiltrus (Jun 2021) (opens in a new tab)

    “Avoid chelators like EDTA or sodium gluconate, which will destabilize the structure, potentially.”

  • ForumReddit r/DIYBeauty, u/CPhiltrus (Aug 2021) (opens in a new tab)

    “Avoid using a phosphate buffer and any inorganic salts that will precipitate copper.”

  • ForumReddit r/DIYBeauty, u/CPhiltrus (Apr 2022) (opens in a new tab)

    “citrate can strongly chelate out the copper”

• Patch testing

  Dermatologists (American Academy of Dermatology) advise testing a new product on a quarter-sized spot, such as the underside of the arm or the bend of the elbow, twice a day for 7–10 days before using it widely. The Ordinary’s shorter version for its copper peptide serum is a small amount on the upper forearm, rinsed off after 24 hours, stopping if there is any redness, burning, itching or blistering.

  Sources (4)

  • PractitionerAmerican Academy of Dermatology: How to test skin care products (opens in a new tab)

    “Apply the product to a test spot twice daily for seven to 10 days.”

  • PractitionerAmerican Academy of Dermatology: How to test skin care products (opens in a new tab)

    “such as the underside of your arm or the bend of your elbow.”

  • ManufacturerThe Ordinary: Multi-Peptide + Copper Peptides 1% Serum product page (opens in a new tab)

    “Apply a small amount of the product onto a clean area of skin on the upper forearm.”

  • FormulatorHumblebee & Me: Natural Skincare Mistakes Most DIYers Make (opens in a new tab)

    “always do a patch test before applying anything new to your body.”

• Packaging: airless or amber bottles

  Suppliers recommend amber (or other dark) glass or opaque airless pump bottles for copper-peptide products, because light speeds breakdown and airless pumps limit air and finger contact. Lotioncrafter’s own peptide serum recipe is bottled in an amber dropper bottle or an opaque squeeze bottle. The FDA lists packaging that does not protect the product as one way cosmetics become contaminated.

  Sources (6)

  • SupplierParchem (chemical distributor): GHK-Cu guide for formulators (opens in a new tab)

    “Packaging: Amber glass or opaque airless pumps preferred. UV exposure accelerates degradation.”

  • SupplierLotioncrafter (supplier): Power Peptide Potion for Collagen Care (opens in a new tab)

    “Pour into an amber dropper bottle or opaque squeeze bottle.”

  • SupplierNatural Organic Skincare / Skin Perfection (supplier): GHK-Cu powder (opens in a new tab)

    “Pour into an airless container and seal.”

  • ReviewUS FDA: Microbiological Safety and Cosmetics (opens in a new tab)

    “Packaging that doesn’t adequately protect the product;”

  • SupplierXclusiv Organics (ingredient supplier): How To Make 1% GHK-Cu Serum (opens in a new tab)

    “Opaque, airtight glass bottles with dropper tops or airless pumps minimize air exposure and contamination.”

  • VendorReal Peptides (peptide vendor): How to Make GHK-Cu Serum (opens in a new tab)

    “An amber or cobalt blue bottle is non-negotiable for storage to prevent UV degradation.”

• Contamination and shelf life of home-made products

  The FDA says fingers dipped into a product add bacteria and fungi, preservatives break down over time, and heat (for example a hot car) makes preservatives break down and microbes grow faster. No DIY peptide recipe has been tested for shelf life. The limits quoted by recipe writers vary widely: 2–4 weeks in the fridge for unpreserved serums (Regimen, NuTide), 4–8 weeks without a synthetic preservative (Xclusiv Organics), 3–6 months with a preservative (Xclusiv Organics) and 8–12 weeks refrigerated with 1% phenoxyethanol (a Reddit recipe). All of these are the writers’ estimates, not test results. Formulators recommend cleaning and sanitising tools and surfaces with 70% isopropyl alcohol or ethanol before starting.

  Sources (7)

  • ReviewUS FDA: Shelf Life and Expiration Dating of Cosmetics (opens in a new tab)

    “Dipping fingers into a product adds microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungi (mold and yeast), which need to be controlled, for example, by preservatives.”

  • ReviewUS FDA: Shelf Life and Expiration Dating of Cosmetics (opens in a new tab)

    “Heat can make preservatives break down and cause bacteria and fungi to grow faster.”

  • ReviewRegimen (peptide-tracking app) blog: GHK-Cu Serum guide (opens in a new tab)

    “Once it’s mixed, plan on 2-4 weeks in the fridge, longer if your carrier has a preservative (most do).”

  • SupplierXclusiv Organics (ingredient supplier): How To Make 1% GHK-Cu Serum (opens in a new tab)

    “Shelf life without synthetic preservatives: Expect 4-8 weeks of stability.”

  • SupplierXclusiv Organics (ingredient supplier): How To Make 1% GHK-Cu Serum (opens in a new tab)

    “3-6 months (with preservatives)”

  • ForumReddit r/Peptides, u/greenpamplemousse (Dec 2025) (opens in a new tab)

    “Shelf life: 8–12 weeks refrigerated”

  • FormulatorFormula Botanica: Cosmetic formulation kit (opens in a new tab)

    “sanitise it with 70% isopropyl alcohol or ethanol (this prevents microbial contamination)”

• Stirring peptides into store-bought products

  Most community recipes stir peptide powder into a ready-made serum or cream. Cosmetic formulators on r/DIYBeauty advise against this: altering a finished product can upset its preservation and stability, and without proper mixing the peptide may be spread unevenly, which can cause irritation. They suggest making a separate product from scratch instead.

  Sources (4)

  • ForumReddit r/DIYBeauty, u/DIYBeauty-ModTeam (Jan 2025) (opens in a new tab)

    “Altering commercial products can negatively affect the preservation, stability, and overall safety of the product.”

  • ForumReddit r/DIYBeauty, u/CPhiltrus (Jan 2025) (opens in a new tab)

    “It isn’t recommended to mix anything into a pre-formulated product, even if it is just before application to the face.”

  • ForumReddit r/DIYBeauty, u/CPhiltrus (Jan 2025) (opens in a new tab)

    “you’ll get uneven distribution that can cause irritation or a reaction.”

  • ForumReddit r/DIYBeauty, u/dubberpuck (Jan 2025) (opens in a new tab)

    “It would be easier to make a separate copper peptide product.”

Per batch. How much peptide a serum needs.

This does arithmetic only. It doesn’t tell you what strength to use.