GHK-Cu

GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide known for its regenerative and anti-aging effects. It promotes collagen production, speeds wound healing, improves skin texture, and supports hair follicle health. Widely used in cosmetic serums and creams for skin rejuvenation and hair growth in vitro and in vivo.

• Chelates copper ions to form a biologically active GHK-Cu complex
• Upregulates genes involved in wound healing, skin remodeling, and antioxidant defense
• Suppresses expression of inflammatory cytokines and proteases (e.g., MMPs)
• Increases fibroblast proliferation and migration in injured tissues

• unit: %

  low dose: 0.5

  frequency: Apply 1–2x daily

  high dose: 2

  standard dose: 1

  administration route: Topical

• unit: mg

  low dose: 1

  frequency: Daily or 3-5x weekly

  high dose: 2

  standard dose: 1.5

  administration route: Subcutaneous (SQ)

• unit: mg

  low dose: 1

  frequency: Daily or 3-5x weekly

  high dose: 2

  standard dose: 1.5

  administration route: Subcutaneous (SQ)

• Apply 1–2x daily for 8–12 weeks. Safe for continuous use as part of cosmetic maintenance protocols.

common: ["Mild redness and irritation (5–10% of new users, topical)","Tingling or slight burning, temporary \"purging\" pimples"]

warnings: ["Copper toxicity risk if injected incorrectly (abdominal pain, vomiting, tremors, metallic taste)"]

sequence: Gly-His-Lys

half life: Not clearly established; local activity persists longer than plasma half-life

degradation: Broken down by tissue peptidases and metal ion dissociation

molecular weight: 340.9

molecular formula: C14H24N6O4

tissue specificity: Affects skin, scalp, connective tissue, and epithelial layers

• GHK Peptide as a Natural Modulator of Multiple Cellular Pathways in Skin Regeneration.reviewPMID 26236730 ↗
• The tri-peptide GHK-Cu complex ameliorates LPS-induced acute lung injury in mice.mechanismPMID 27517151 ↗
• Tripeptide-copper complex GHK-Cu(II) improved healing in a rat model of ACL reconstruction.preclinicalPMID 25731775 ↗