GHK-Cu
Also known as: Copper Peptide GHK-Cu, Glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine copper, Copper Tripeptide-1
GHK-Cu is available in both cosmetic and research peptide forms. Cosmetic topical products are widely commercially available. Injectable forms are research use only and not FDA-approved for human therapeutic use. This is not medical advice.
Overview
GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring copper peptide found in human plasma, saliva, and urine. It plays a role in wound healing, skin regeneration, and anti-inflammatory signaling. Levels decline significantly with age, which has driven interest in topical and injectable supplementation.
Research Summary
GHK-Cu has been studied for its ability to stimulate collagen synthesis, promote wound healing, and exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. It activates numerous genes associated with tissue repair and is one of the more extensively researched peptides in dermatology and regenerative medicine.
Dosing Range
low
1mg
moderate
2mg
high
3mg
Units: mg · Frequency: daily to every other day (injectable); twice daily (topical)
Dosing ranges are aggregated from preclinical research and community protocols. Not medical dosing guidance.
Administration Routes
Reconstitution Notes
For injectable use: reconstitute with 1–2 mL bacteriostatic water per vial. The solution will have a characteristic blue tint from the copper complex — this is normal. Store at 2–8°C. Use within 30 days.Step-by-step reconstitution guide →
Reported Side Effects
- Injection site redness (transient)
- Mild skin irritation with topical (typically resolves with reduced frequency)
- Rarely reported: metallic taste (with injectable use at higher doses)
Research Papers
Community Experiences
Aggregated from public forums. Anecdotal — not clinical evidence.
Long-form review of GHK-Cu serums from multiple users. Consistent reports of improved skin texture, reduced fine lines, and faster healing of minor blemishes after 6–12 weeks of daily use.
View original threadSmaller thread on injectable GHK-Cu. Users note faster healing from cuts and minor injuries. Some report a general improvement in skin quality over 8-week protocols.
View original threadWhy GHK-Cu Declines with Age
GHK-Cu is present in human plasma at approximately 200 ng/mL at age 20. By age 60, plasma concentrations drop by roughly 60%. This age-related decline has been correlated with reduced collagen production, slower wound healing, and increased inflammatory gene expression.
Mechanism: Gene Activation
Unlike many peptides that work through a single receptor, GHK-Cu appears to function as a broad gene expression regulator. Studies have identified it as capable of upregulating or downregulating over 4,000 human genes, including those involved in:
- Collagen and elastin synthesis
- Antioxidant defense (SOD1, catalase)
- Anti-inflammatory pathways (reduced IL-6, TNF-α)
- DNA repair
- Nerve growth factor (NGF) production
Topical vs. Injectable
Topical is the dominant use case for GHK-Cu and is the most commercially mature form. Many validated skincare brands include it as an active ingredient. Effective for skin texture, fine lines, and surface wound healing.
Injectable use is less common and primarily in the research/biohacking community. Some protocols use subcutaneous injection for systemic effects (e.g., accelerated healing of internal tissue). The evidence base for systemic injectable use in humans is far more limited than for topical.
Stacking Notes
GHK-Cu is sometimes combined with BPC-157 or TB-500 in healing-focused protocols, as the three peptides target overlapping but distinct aspects of the repair cascade.
Want to calculate your dose? Use the dosing calculator →