Quick Facts

Chemical Name
Copper Tripeptide-1
Also Known As
Copper Peptide, GHK Copper
Category
Skin & Hair
Administration
Often applied topically in serums and creams or via subcutaneous injection in research settings

What is GHK-Cu?

GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring tripeptide composed of glycine, histidine, and lysine with a strong affinity for copper ions. First isolated from human plasma in 1973, it has been extensively studied for its remarkable regenerative properties. The peptide concentration in the body declines significantly with age, dropping from about 200 ng/mL at age 20 to 80 ng/mL by age 60. This decline correlates with decreased tissue regenerative capacity, making GHK-Cu supplementation a focus of anti-aging research.

How Does GHK-Cu Work?

GHK-Cu exerts its effects through multiple mechanisms. It acts as a signaling molecule that can modulate the expression of numerous genes involved in tissue repair and regeneration. The copper ion is essential for many enzymatic processes, including collagen and elastin synthesis. GHK-Cu activates wound healing pathways, increases collagen and glycosaminoglycan synthesis, stimulates blood vessel growth, and possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It also appears to reset gene expression patterns to a healthier state.

Research-Backed Benefits

Collagen Synthesis

Strong Evidence

Significantly increases production of collagen types I and III, improving skin firmness and reducing wrinkles.

Wound Healing

Strong Evidence

Accelerates wound repair, reduces scarring, and promotes faster recovery from skin injuries.

Hair Growth Stimulation

Moderate Evidence

Increases hair follicle size, stimulates growth, and may help prevent hair loss.

Anti-Aging Effects

Strong Evidence

Reduces fine lines, improves skin texture, and enhances overall skin appearance.

Antioxidant Protection

Moderate Evidence

Provides protection against oxidative stress and may reduce inflammation.

Dosage Guidelines

Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only. Peptides are research compounds not approved by the FDA for human use. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider.

Typical Range
Topical: 0.1-1% concentration; Injectable: 50-200 mcg
Frequency
Topical: 1-2 times daily; Injectable: 2-3 times weekly
Duration
8-16 weeks for optimal results

Topical application is most common for cosmetic purposes. Injectable forms are used in research settings.

Side Effects & Safety

  • Generally very well tolerated
  • Rare skin irritation with topical use
  • Potential for injection site reactions
  • Temporary skin discoloration possible

Frequently Asked Questions

GHK-Cu stimulates collagen production, accelerates wound healing, reduces wrinkles and fine lines, and improves overall skin texture and firmness.
Topical GHK-Cu typically shows visible improvements in 2-4 weeks, with optimal results after 8-12 weeks of consistent use.
Research suggests GHK-Cu can stimulate hair follicles and promote hair growth, though results vary by individual and the extent of hair loss.
GHK-Cu has an excellent safety profile in both topical and research settings, with no significant adverse effects reported in long-term studies.
For cosmetic benefits, topical serums with 0.1-1% concentration are most common. For systemic effects, injectable forms are studied in research.

References

  1. Pickart L, Margolina A. "The Human Tripeptide GHK-Cu in Prevention of Oxidative Stress." International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 2018. PMID: 30037064
  2. Pickart L, et al. "GHK Peptide as a Natural Modulator of Multiple Cellular Pathways." Biomed Research International, 2015. PMID: 26236730
  3. Pickart L. "Regenerative and Protective Actions of GHK-Cu Peptide." International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 2012. PMID: 22489153

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