GLOW

GLOW is a pre-mixed blend of three research peptides: GHK-Cu, BPC-157 and TB-500. It has taken off in skin, beauty and women's wellness circles, where it is talked about for radiance, firmness and faster bounce-back.

The star ingredient is GHK-Cu, a small copper-binding peptide your body already makes. It is found in human plasma, saliva and urine, and its levels fall with age. In lab and skin studies GHK-Cu has been linked to collagen production, wound repair and antioxidant activity, which is why it shows up in serums and skin care. In the GLOW blends sellers list, GHK-Cu makes up most of the blend by weight, with BPC-157 and TB-500 added for their repair reputation.

What the research says: each ingredient has been studied on its own, mostly in cells and animals, plus small studies of GHK-Cu applied to skin. Reviews by Pickart and colleagues summarize GHK-Cu's effects on skin remodeling and on the activity of genes tied to repair. GLOW as a blend has not been studied in a published trial, so its reputation rests on its parts.

Status check: GLOW is not an approved medicine. Topical GHK-Cu is a familiar cosmetic ingredient, but injectable GHK-Cu, BPC-157 and TB-500 are not FDA-approved, and FDA's compounding safety page lists them as nominated but withdrawn from Category 2. BPC-157 and TB-500 are also prohibited in sport by WADA. Talk with a clinician or dermatologist before trying anything new.