GHK-Cu
Also known as: Copper Peptide, Glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine copper
Key Facts: GHK-Cu
- Category
- Skin & Hair
- FDA Status
- Not FDA Approved
- Clinical Status
- Widely used in cosmetics - Some clinical research
- Administration
- Subcutaneous injection or topical application
- Typical Dose
- 1-2 mg daily (injection) or topical
- Frequency
- Once daily
- Evidence Level
- Limited Research
- Duration
- Varies by application
What to Expect
A naturally occurring copper-binding peptide found in human plasma, saliva, and urine. Widely used in skincare for its wound healing and anti-aging properties.
Mechanism of Action
GHK-Cu stimulates collagen and elastin synthesis, promotes glycosaminoglycan production, supports blood vessel growth, and has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It remodels damaged tissue and activates wound-healing genes.
Research Summary
Studies demonstrate increased collagen synthesis, improved skin elasticity, reduced fine lines, and accelerated wound healing. Research shows it can reset gene expression to a healthier state and may have systemic anti-aging effects beyond skin.
Dosing Information
Typical Dosingⓘ
Community experience
1-2 mg daily (injection) or topical
0.5-3 mg daily
Once daily
Can be injected subcutaneously or used topically for skin/hair. Copper peptide with wound healing and anti-aging properties.
Research Dosingⓘ
Scientific studies
Doses observed in research and cosmetic use
Doses from Studies
1-2 mg for injectable protocols
Topical: various concentrations in serums
Duration
Varies by application
Administration
Subcutaneous injection or topical application
Timing & Administration
Best Time to Take
Evening (for skin/recovery)
1-2 times daily
Food Recommendation
With or without food
Why This Timing?
GHK-Cu supports tissue repair which occurs primarily during sleep. Evening use may enhance overnight recovery.
Possible Side Effects
Not everyone experiences these effects. Individual responses vary based on dosage, duration, and personal factors.
- ●Generally well-tolerated
- ●Topical: mild skin irritation, redness, or tingling
- ●Injectable: injection site reactions
- ●May trigger histamine release - use caution with MCAS or histamine sensitivity
- ●Risk of copper toxicity with excessive use
- ●Contraindicated with Wilson's disease
- ●Caution with active cancer (angiogenesis concern)
References
Related Peptides
Peptides commonly compared with GHK-Cu or used in similar applications.
BPC-157
PreclinicalA synthetic peptide derived from a protein found in human gastric juice. Known for its remarkable tissue healing properties across multiple body systems.
HealingTB-500
Clinical TrialsA synthetic 17-amino acid fragment of Thymosin Beta-4 (TB-4). NOT the same as TB-4 - TB-500 has a longer half-life (~2-4 days vs ~2 hours) and is the active region responsible for tissue repair and cell migration. Note: Many vendors mislabel TB-4 as 'TB-500' in premixed products.
HealingMatrixyl
ResearchA collagen-stimulating peptide widely used in anti-aging skincare. One of the first peptides proven to reduce wrinkles by stimulating collagen synthesis.
Skin & HairMatrixyl 3000
ResearchAn advanced version of Matrixyl combining two peptides for enhanced anti-aging effects. Targets both collagen production and inflammation.
Skin & HairCopper Peptide AHK-Cu
ResearchA copper-binding tripeptide primarily used for hair growth stimulation. Shows promise for both hair loss prevention and scalp health.
Skin & HairMelanotan I
FDAA 13-amino acid synthetic analog of α-MSH that stimulates melanin production. FDA-approved (as Scenesse) for treating phototoxicity in patients with erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP). More selective than Melanotan II with fewer side effects.
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Educational Information Only
This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with qualified healthcare providers before making any decisions about peptides or other substances. The protocols listed reflect doses observed in research studies, not recommendations.