GHK-Cu

Overview

What is GHK-Cu?

GHK-Cu is a copper bound tripeptide studied for collagen synthesis, wound healing, skin rejuvenation and hair follicle support. It is used topically in cosmetic formulations and by injection in research settings, where the copper complex carries its own cautions.

• Skin Rejuvenation
• Collagen Support
• Wound Healing
• Hair Support

What the research reports

Reported benefits of GHK-Cu

Outcomes described across the published GHK-Cu literature and ongoing study. Read each as research context rather than a promised personal result.

1. 01

   Collagen and elastin support

   Studied for stimulating collagen and glycosaminoglycan synthesis, which is the basis for its long use in cosmetic skin formulations. Reported in research settings.

2. 02

   Wound healing study results

   Animal and cell work reports faster wound closure and tissue remodelling, with copper acting as a cofactor for lysyl oxidase and other repair enzymes.

3. 03

   Skin rejuvenation study work

   A small randomised trial of 13 patients found no measurable change in redness or wrinkles after CO2 laser resurfacing, although patient satisfaction scores improved.

4. 04

   Antioxidant activity study

   Preclinical work reports reduced oxidative stress, including studies in lung inflammation models that point to peroxiredoxin 6 involvement. Reported in research settings.

5. 05

   Hair follicle study support

   Copper peptides are studied for dermal papilla activity and follicle support, mostly in cell culture rather than controlled human trials. Reported in research settings.

Dosage and protocol

How GHK-Cu is typically studied

Topical formulations use 1 to 3 percent concentrations applied to clean skin. Injection protocols report 1 to 4 mg daily with a short half-life of minutes to hours, refrigerate after mixing.

Route

Topical or injection

Example range

1-2 mg

Frequency

Once or twice daily

Timing

Topical on clean skin morning or night. Injection once or twice daily.

Clinical evidence

GHK-Cu clinical evidence summary

The published GHK-Cu record, labeled by strength so you can see what is settled and what is still emerging.

Interactions

How GHK-Cu pairs with other peptides

BPC-157 peptide

Synergistic for tissue remodelling. Both support wound healing through separate biological mechanisms.

TB-500 peptide

Frequently combined in repair blends, adding collagen signalling to actin mediated cell migration.

Vitamin C serums

Direct layering with strong acids or ascorbic acid can destabilise the copper complex in topical use.

AHK-Cu peptide

Both are copper peptides, so combining them raises total copper exposure on the same application area.