I've had so many questions lately, so here's a little honest insight into my own peptide journey — what I've tried, what I've loved, and why I started exploring them earlier this year with NexGen Advancements.
I'm simply sharing my own experience and what has formed part of my wellness journey since February this year. I'm not a doctor, and nothing here is medical advice — just one woman being open about what she's tried.
I've explored a handful of peptides now, and honestly? Love, love — all of them. Each one has earned a place in how I think about ageing well, energy and recovery. The ones I've personally used are marked below.
— Shan
Everything NexGen currently has available. I'm not selling peptides directly through my site, so to order anything, email me and I'll point you in the right direction. The ones I've used myself are marked. Any peptide can come with a disposable pen for R250 extra.
A naturally occurring copper tripeptide that supports collagen production, skin remodelling and tissue repair. Its levels decline with age. It's the peptide behind the Beauty Pen.
My favourite for skin. More on the Beauty Pen below.
Email to enquireA synthetic tetrapeptide modelled on epithalamin, a compound made by the pineal gland. It has been studied for its effect on telomerase activity, melatonin rhythm and sleep, and markers of ageing. Most research comes from cell, animal and small human studies.
Currently part of my routine.
Email to enquireA coenzyme central to cellular energy and repair that naturally declines with age, which is why it's a major focus of longevity research.
A staple in how I support energy and recovery.
Email to enquireThe body's main antioxidant, a tripeptide that protects cells from oxidative stress and supports the liver's detoxification pathways. Often used for skin brightness and overall cellular health.
Email to enquireAlso known as elamipretide, a mitochondria-targeted peptide that binds to the inner mitochondrial membrane. It has been studied in clinical trials for mitochondrial function in heart and muscle conditions.
Email to enquireA naturally occurring mitochondrial-derived peptide involved in energy and metabolism. Research links it to insulin sensitivity and glucose handling via the AMPK pathway; it's induced by exercise and its levels fall with age. Most findings so far are preclinical.
Loved having it in the mix.
Email to enquireA small molecule that inhibits NNMT, an enzyme highly active in fat tissue. In cell and animal studies this has been associated with higher cellular NAD+ and reduced fat-cell lipid build-up. The evidence base is young and largely preclinical.
Another I've been really happy with.
Email to enquireAn experimental compound that activates ERR receptors, sometimes called an "exercise mimetic". In mouse studies it increased endurance and fat metabolism. It has not yet been tested in human trials.
Email to enquireA synthetic peptide derived from a protein found in gastric juice. Studied in animals for tendon, ligament, muscle and gut tissue repair. Human data is still very limited.
Email to enquireA synthetic fragment of thymosin beta-4, a protein involved in cell migration and healing. Studied mainly in animals for wound healing, tissue repair and flexibility.
Email to enquireDelta sleep-inducing peptide, a neuropeptide first isolated in the 1970s. Studied for sleep regulation and the body's stress response, with mixed results in humans.
Email to enquireA synthetic peptide developed in Russia, based on the immune peptide tuftsin. Studied for calm and focus, with anti-anxiety effects that don't cause sedation.
Email to enquireA synthetic peptide developed in Russia, based on a fragment of the hormone ACTH. Studied for focus, memory and protecting nerve cells.
Email to enquireSterile water with a preservative, used for reconstitution.
Email to enquirePen add-ons for simple, measured use.
Email to enquireLooking for something you don't see here? Drop me a mail.
Sources, for those who like to read: GHK-Cu & MOTS-c research on PubMed Central (NIH). Shared for interest, not as medical advice.
I've had so many questions about the "Beauty Pen" — it's a GHK-Cu peptide in an easy-to-use pen format, which makes administration incredibly simple.
GHK-Cu (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine bound to copper) is a naturally occurring tripeptide that promotes skin remodeling, collagen production and tissue repair. Its levels naturally decline with age, which is part of why I find it so interesting for skin and hair.
Read the research on GHK-Cu →
Stimulates collagen and elastin, firming loose skin and softening the look of fine lines.
Up-regulates genes related to cellular repair and helps reduce inflammation.
Often used in scalp formulations to support thicker, stronger hair and healthier follicles.
Boosts the body's natural antioxidant defences to help reduce oxidative damage.
If you're already shopping through NexGen Advancements, use my code at checkout to receive a complimentary Beauty Pen with qualifying purchases over R2400.
Code · SHANFOURIE *Available on qualifying orders while stocks last — limited stock. The latest updates are being added here soon.A note for honesty: Everything on this page reflects my own personal experience only and is not medical advice. I am not a doctor, pharmacist or medical professional, and nothing here should be taken as a recommendation, endorsement or instruction to use any product.
Peptides and related products referenced on this page are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease, have not been evaluated by the FDA or SAHPRA, and individual results vary. Some peptides are supplied for research purposes and are not licensed medicines — always check a product's labelling and intended use before purchasing or using it. This page is intended for adults (18+) only.
NexGen Advancements is an independent third-party supplier. I do not manufacture, prescribe, dose or administer any product, and I am not responsible for the accuracy of supplier product claims, product quality, shipping, or any outcome, adverse reaction or injury arising from a purchase or use of these products. All purchases are between you and the supplier directly, subject to NexGen Advancements' own terms, conditions and returns policy — please review these on their site before ordering.
Always speak to your own healthcare provider before starting anything new, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, on medication, or managing a medical condition. Some links and codes on this page are affiliate/referral links, and I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Have a look at NexGen's full range on their site, or get in touch and I'll happily point you the right way.