Peptide Comparison
Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu)vsGHK-Cu
Multi-functional copper peptide complex that stimulates collagen, enhances wound healing, and provides broad antioxidant protection for skin renewal.
A naturally occurring copper peptide that acts like a master switch for your body's repair systems—boosting collagen production, accelerating wound healing, and helping your skin rebuild itself from the inside out.
At a Glance
Quick
comparison
Dose Range
Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu)
0.01%–1% %
GHK-Cu
1–3 mg
Frequency
Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu)
Once daily
GHK-Cu
Once daily
Administration
Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu)
Topical
GHK-Cu
Subcutaneous injection
Cycle Length
Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu)
Ongoing/indefinite
GHK-Cu
8-12 weeks
Onset Speed
Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu)
Moderate (1-2 weeks)
GHK-Cu
Moderate (1-2 weeks)
Evidence Level
Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu)
Limited human trials
GHK-Cu
Strong preclinical (extensive animal studies)
Efficacy
Benefit
ratings
Wound Healing
Antioxidant Defense
Skin Rejuvenation
Tissue Regeneration
Technical Data
Compound
specifications
Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu)
Molecular Formula
C14H22N6O4Cu
Molecular Weight
401.9 Da
Half-Life
Susceptible to enzymatic degradation; liposomal formulation extends stability. Highly water-soluble (325 mg/mL).
Bioavailability
Limited percutaneous absorption at topical concentrations (local dermal effects primary); systemic bioavailability via injection
CAS Number
49557-75-7
GHK-Cu
Molecular Formula
C14H23N6O4Cu
Molecular Weight
403.93 g/mol
Half-Life
Approximately 1 hour (plasma)
Bioavailability
High when injected subcutaneously; variable topically depending on formulation
CAS Number
49557-75-7
Protocols
Dosing
tiers
Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu)
GHK-Cu
Applications
Best
suited for
Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu)
Individuals seeking comprehensive skin rejuvenation with antioxidant protection
Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu) is particularly well-suited for individuals focused on individuals seeking comprehensive skin rejuvenation with antioxidant protection. Research and clinical experience suggest meaningful benefits in this area when used as part of a comprehensive treatment approach.
Those with wounds, scars, or post-procedural skin requiring accelerated healing
Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu) is particularly well-suited for individuals focused on those with wounds, scars, or post-procedural skin requiring accelerated healing. Research and clinical experience suggest meaningful benefits in this area when used as part of a comprehensive treatment approach.
People experiencing hair thinning who want to support follicle health
Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu) is particularly well-suited for individuals focused on people experiencing hair thinning who want to support follicle health. Research and clinical experience suggest meaningful benefits in this area when used as part of a comprehensive treatment approach.
Individuals looking for multi-pathway anti-aging through a single active ingredient
Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu) is particularly well-suited for individuals focused on individuals looking for multi-pathway anti-aging through a single active ingredient. Research and clinical experience suggest meaningful benefits in this area when used as part of a comprehensive treatment approach.
GHK-Cu
Anti-Aging Warriors
If fine lines, sagging skin, and lost elasticity are your enemies, GHK-Cu is your secret weapon. It ramps up collagen and elastin production—the two proteins responsible for keeping your skin firm and youthful. Studies show it can tighten loose skin and improve elasticity better than many popular skincare ingredients.
Wound Healing Champions
Whether you're recovering from surgery, dealing with stubborn wounds, or healing from a cosmetic procedure, GHK-Cu accelerates the entire repair process. It attracts immune cells, builds new blood vessels, and stimulates the growth factors your body needs to rebuild tissue faster and better.
Scar Reducers
GHK-Cu doesn't just heal wounds—it helps remodel scar tissue. By regulating how your body lays down collagen during healing, it can help scars become flatter, softer, and more like surrounding normal skin. It even reduces the TGF-beta signals that lead to thick, raised scars.
Hair Growth Seekers
Research shows GHK-Cu can enlarge hair follicles and activate the Wnt/beta-catenin pathway—the signaling system that tells hair follicles to grow. If you're noticing thinning hair or increased shedding, this peptide may help stimulate thicker, healthier growth over time.
Safety Profile
Side
effects
Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu)
Common
- Mild Tingling or Warmth
- Transient Redness
- Skin Dryness or Peeling
Uncommon
- Injection Site Reactions
- Allergic Contact Dermatitis
Serious
- Copper Accumulation (Theoretical with Injection)
- Copper Toxicity from Excessive Accumulation
GHK-Cu
Common
- Injection site redness
- Skin tingling (topical use)
- Minor bruising
- Mild swelling at injection site
Uncommon
- Mild headache
- Temporary skin purging (topical)
Serious
- Allergic reaction
Research Status
Safety
& evidence
Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu)
Evidence Level
Limited human trials
FDA Status
Research compound
Safety Overview
Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu) is not FDA-approved and lacks human clinical safety data, though cosmetic use in topical formulations is generally recognized as safe based on its composition. The tripeptide-copper complex has been shown to be non-toxic in in vitro cell studies and animal models at cosmetic concentrations (< 200 ppm). However, systemic absorption and safety at higher concentrations or with chronic use remain untested in humans. Copper accumulation in tissues is theoretically possible with repeated systemic use, and effects on copper metabolism have never been characterized. No human Phase 1 studies or formal toxicology assessments have been conducted.
Contraindications
- xWilson's disease (genetic copper metabolism disorder)
- xKnown hypersensitivity to copper compounds or GHK-Cu
- xActive skin infections at the application site
- xSevere hepatic impairment (reduced copper clearance capacity)
GHK-Cu
Evidence Level
Strong preclinical (extensive animal studies)
FDA Status
Research compound
Safety Overview
GHK-Cu has an excellent safety profile backed by decades of research since its discovery in the 1970s. It's a naturally occurring peptide found in your blood, saliva, and urine—your body already knows it well. Concentrations naturally decline with age (from about 200 ng/mL at age 20 to 80 ng/mL by age 60), which is part of why supplementation makes sense. Most side effects are mild and injection-related. The copper component is well-tolerated at recommended doses but should be monitored in long-term use.
Contraindications
- xWilson's disease or copper metabolism disorders
- xKnown allergy to copper or peptide components
- xActive cancer or history of cancer
- xPregnancy or breastfeeding
- xChildren and adolescents
Decision Guide
Which is
right for you?
Choose Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu) if...
- Individuals seeking comprehensive skin rejuvenation with antioxidant protection
- Those with wounds, scars, or post-procedural skin requiring accelerated healing
- People experiencing hair thinning who want to support follicle health
- Individuals looking for multi-pathway anti-aging through a single active ingredient
Choose GHK-Cu if...
- Skin rejuvenation and anti-aging
- Wound and injury recovery
- Scar reduction
- Hair growth support