What is GHK-Cu?
GHK-Cu (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine copper) is a naturally occurring tripeptide found in human plasma, saliva, and urine with a high affinity for copper ions. Widely used in dermatology, it has demonstrated the ability to stimulate collagen and elastin synthesis, promote wound healing, activate antioxidant enzymes, and reduce inflammatory skin damage. Commercially available OTC in cosmetic serums, creams, and injectable formulations.
Mechanism of Action
Copper chelation enabling cuproenzyme activity; upregulates collagen I, III, elastin, and glycosaminoglycans; activates TGF-β and VEGF pathways; reduces oxidative stress via SOD and catalase induction
Target: Copper-dependent enzymes, TGF-β receptor, ECM proteins
Research / educational reference. Educational research index only — not medical advice. Literature maturity is not a verdict on whether a compound works in people. Community reports are not evidence of efficacy.
Evidence at a glance
Derived · maturity-1.0Human efficacy is unproven unless an approved label or completed published efficacy program says otherwise. Counts reflect indexed literature volume/kind — never a verdict on effect.
Literature maturity
emerging 34/100
PubMed hits
160
CT.gov trials
2
Strong-human apps
0
Sample papers
8
Sample articles by era
- pre-20182
- 2018-20203
- 2021-20231
- 2024-20262
Application grades (curated)
- Human-grade apps1
- Animal / in-vitro0
- Mechanistic0
Does literature support studied applications?
Grades reflect cited literature posture — not a treatment recommendation. Community notes are never efficacy evidence.
| Application | Cited evidence | Grade | Community |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skin remodeling / wound biology | Copper-binding tripeptide studied for dermal remodeling; mix of cosmetic clinical and preclinical data. | Limited human | Community reports vary; not evidence of efficacy. |
Pharmacology
Mechanism of action
- •Copper chelation enabling cuproenzyme activity; upregulates collagen I, III, elastin, and glycosaminoglycans; activates TGF-β and VEGF pathways; reduces oxidative stress via SOD and catalase induction
- •Primary target framing: Copper-dependent enzymes, TGF-β receptor, ECM proteins
Half-life
~30 minutes (plasma)
Identity & chemistry
- PubChem
- CID 139035031
- Formula
- C14H21CuN6O4-
- Molar mass
- 400.9 Da
- InChIKey
- LREZPQNYQZAPJC-ACMTZBLWSA-L
Identity cross-checked with PubChem where available. Compass HTML used only as a bootstrap checklist — not republished as product copy.
Storage & stability
- Lyophilized
- 2–8°C (injectable); lyophilized typical shelf 12–24 months
- Reconstituted
- 2–8°C (injectable); in-use window often 14–30 days (product-dependent)
- Tell-tale degradation
- !Cloudiness, clumping, or particles after mixing
- !Discoloration versus the expected clear/colorless (or labeled) solution
- !Failed or incomplete reconstitution of lyophilized cake
Educational estimates. Prefer product labeling and peptide shelf-life tool.
Lab handling posture
Research / educational handling notes only. Not a substitute for an SDS.
- •Use PPE appropriate for peptide powder/solution handling
- •Avoid inhalation of lyophilized powder; handle spills per institutional policy
- •Do not present research materials as medicines
Sample indexed literature
- Regenerative and Protective Actions of the GHK-Cu Peptide in the Light of the New Gene Data.
International journal of molecular sciences · 2018 · PMID 29986520
- The potential of GHK as an anti-aging peptide.
Aging pathobiology and therapeutics · 2020 · PMID 35083444
- GHK Peptide as a Natural Modulator of Multiple Cellular Pathways in Skin Regeneration.
BioMed research international · 2015 · PMID 26236730
- Topically applied GHK as an anti-wrinkle peptide: Advantages, problems and prospective.
BioImpacts : BI · 2025 · PMID 39963574
- The human tri-peptide GHK and tissue remodeling.
Journal of biomaterials science. Polymer edition · 2008 · PMID 18644225
- Copper peptide activated cascade catalysis for glucose regulation and hypoxia reversing in infected diabetic wound healing.
Materials today. Bio · 2026 · PMID 42404628
Research Indications
Supports collagen synthesis and skin barrier function
Research shows potential for reducing fine lines and improving skin texture
May accelerate cutaneous wound healing
Research Protocols
These are commonly discussed research protocols — not medical advice. Consult a healthcare provider before use.
| Goal | Dose | Frequency | Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Dose | Low dose | Per protocol | Varies |
| Standard Dose | Titrated | Per protocol | Varies |
Peptide & Drug Interactions
Always consult your healthcare provider before combining with other compounds. Use our Interaction Checker for reference.
How to Apply
- 1
Ensure hands and work area are clean before handling any peptide product
- 2
Topical GHK-Cu products are typically pre-formulated — follow product instructions
- 3
Apply a thin layer to clean, dry skin in the target area
- 4
Store as directed on packaging, typically at room temperature away from direct sunlight
- 5
Avoid applying to broken or irritated skin unless directed by a provider
What to Expect
Week 1–2
Initial effects and adaptation period. Monitor for any adverse reactions.
Week 2–4
Primary effects begin to manifest. Adjust dosing as recommended by your provider.
Week 4–8
Main therapeutic effects should be established. Assess progress with your provider.
Week 8+
Evaluate results and determine continuation, cycling, or dose adjustments.
Side Effects & Safety
- Injection site reactions (redness, bruising, mild pain)
- Potential for allergic reaction — discontinue if rash or hives occur
- Individual reactions vary — start at the lowest dose and monitor carefully
- Consult your healthcare provider before use and report any unusual symptoms
FDA Status & Regulatory Info
GHK-Cu (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine copper) is a naturally occurring tripeptide found in human plasma, saliva, and urine with a high affinity for copper ions. Widely used in dermatology, it has demonstrated the ability to stimulate collagen and elastin synthesis, promote wound healing, activate antioxidant enzymes, and reduce inflammatory skin damage. Commercially available OTC in cosmetic serums, creams, and injectable formulations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Research References
External links for education only. We do not control third-party content.
Community-reported data
The information below reflects self-reported experiences from PeptIQ app users. It is not clinical evidence and should not replace professional medical advice.
Community Intelligence
What 120 users report
Overall experience
From check-in ratings — separate from side effects logged below. Side effects are logged separately from overall experience. A favorable check-in can still include nausea, fatigue, or injection-site reactions.
Favorable 3% · Mixed 97% · Unfavorable overall 0%
Most reported benefits
Benefits users selected when logging a favorable or mixed check-in.
Most logged side effects
Side effects are logged separately from overall experience. A favorable check-in can still include nausea, fatigue, or injection-site reactions.
Self-reported dose per injection
Median bucket: 2–3 mg · Most common: 2–3 mg
Reports span 0 to ≥ 5 mg (open-ended top bucket)
Anonymized self-reports from PeptIQ users — not prescribing guidance. Buckets group similar logged amounts; open-ended top buckets mean “at least” that dose.
Commonly stacked with
How repeat users are trending
Among repeat reporters, 89% said they felt similar to their last entry, 11% more positive, and 0% more negative.
Overall, repeat reporters leaned more positive than their previous entry.
Median gap between entries: 46 days · Based on 45 repeat reporters
Share Your Experience
Rate GHK-Cu in the PeptIQ app and help the community make informed decisions.
Educational information only
This page is for educational reference. It is not medical or legal advice. PeptIQ does not sell peptides or list vendors. Consult the FDA and a licensed healthcare professional for current regulations and individualized guidance.