GHK-Cu
Also Known As: Copper peptide, Glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine copper, GHK-Copper, GHK Cu, Copper tripeptide-1, Copper peptide GHK, Lamin, Iamin, Tricomin, Folligen, Skin copper peptide, GHK cupric complex, CuGHK, Glycyl histidyl lysine, Collaxyl, Copper peptide serum, copper peptide, GHK copper, blue peptide, wrinkles
GHK-Cu is a research-grade Naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide targeting Extracellular matrix remodeling via MMP/TIMP balance studied in Skin, Hair & Cosmetics research. It is supplied strictly for in vitro laboratory research use only - not for human or animal consumption, and not FDA-approved.
Evidence Tier: Cosmetic - Recognized topical cosmetic active, not a drug.
A copper skin-repair peptide with real topical cosmetic evidence.
At A Glance
| Category | Skin, Hair & Cosmetics |
|---|---|
| Compound Class | Naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide (Gly-His-Lys + Cu2+) |
| Molecular Target | Extracellular matrix remodeling via MMP/TIMP balance; TGF-beta modulation; antioxidant enzyme (SOD, catalase) upregulation; VEGF and FGF stimulation |
| Molecular Weight | 340.85 Da |
| Amino Acid Sequence | Gly-His-Lys + Cu(II) |
| CAS Number | 49557-75-7 (GHK-Cu complex) |
| Half-Life | ~5-10 minutes |
| WADA Status | not_listed |
| Evidence Tier | Cosmetic |
Mechanism Of Action
It physically attaches to copper molecules and pulls them into your cells. Once inside, it flips on the genes responsible for making collagen and turns off the genes that cause inflammation and scarring.
Studied For
- Wound healing
- Skin anti-aging
- Hair loss research
- Antioxidant / anti-inflammatory
- Collagen synthesis stimulation
- Elastin production
- Glycosaminoglycan synthesis
- Dermal regeneration
- Skin tightening
- Wrinkle reduction
- Melanocyte stimulation / hair pigmentation
- Scalp health
- Alopecia models
- Nerve regeneration
- Lung tissue repair
- GI tract healing
- Bone density support
- Angiogenesis
- Antioxidant enzyme upregulation
- Scar reduction
- Skin barrier restoration
- Post-procedure skin recovery
- UV damage repair research
- Anti-inflammatory skin research
- skin tightening
- anti-aging
- hair growth
- wrinkle repair
- collagen production
- scar reduction
- wound healing
- antioxidant
- tissue remodeling
Reported Research Findings
Controlled cosmetic-dermatology studies report improved firmness and reduced fine lines from topical GHK-Cu, plus diabetic-ulcer and post-procedure healing. Systemic injectable human efficacy is not established.
Safety And Handling Notes
Topically well tolerated; possible local irritation; copper-overload is a theoretical concern with high or systemic exposure.
Recognized as a cosmetic ingredient, not a drug. Avoid co-layering with strong acids or high-dose vitamin C, which destabilize the copper complex.
Regulatory Status
Cosmetic ingredient; injectable systemic use not approved.
Full Reference Detail
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Maintained By The Pep Nation Lab Research Team. See Our Editorial Standards And Research Methodology For How This Reference Is Sourced And Reviewed.
This Reference Is Provided For In Vitro Laboratory Research Use Only. Not For Human Consumption. See The Full Research Disclaimer.