Peptide Profile
Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu)
Multi-functional copper peptide complex that stimulates collagen, enhances wound healing, and provides broad antioxidant protection for skin renewal.
Dose Range
0.01%-1%%
Frequency
Once daily
Route
Topical
Cycle Length
Ongoing/indefinite
Onset
Moderate (1-2 weeks)
Evidence
Limited
Compound Profile
Scientific & Efficacy Data
C14H22N6O4Cu
Molecular Formula
401.9 Da
Molecular Weight
Susceptible to enzymatic degradation; liposomal formulation extends stability. Highly water-soluble (325 mg/mL).
Half-Life
Limited percutaneous absorption at topical concentrations (local dermal effects primary); systemic bioavailability via injection
Bioavailability
49557-75-7
CAS #
378611
PubChem ID ↗
Developed By · 2001
Procter & Gamble research team
Procter & Gamble Company
Primary Benefits
Multi-pathway wound healing including fibroblast activation, immune cell recruitment, angiogenesis promotion, and controlled ECM remodeling.
Upregulates endogenous antioxidant enzymes (SOD, catalase) and suppresses oxidative iron release for comprehensive oxidative stress protection.
Stimulates collagen, elastin, and glycosaminoglycan synthesis while modulating gene expression across multiple tissue repair pathways.
Amino Acid Sequence
Gly-His-Lys:Cu(II) complex (tripeptide chelating one copper(II) ion via imidazole nitrogen and amino terminal)Dosing
How much
do I take?
Timing
Best time to take
Apply Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu) to clean, dry skin. For best results, use consistently at the same time(s) each day. Evening application is often preferred to allow overnight absorption, unless otherwise directed.
With food?
As a topical product, Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu) is not affected by food intake. Apply to clean skin and allow adequate absorption time before covering the area.
If stacking
Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu) should be used as directed by your healthcare provider. If combining with other medications or supplements, discuss potential interactions with your provider. Avoid combining with compounds that have overlapping mechanisms unless specifically guided by a medical professional.
Adjusting Your Dose
Increase if
- +You've tolerated the current dose for the recommended period without significant side effects
- +Therapeutic goals haven't been met at the current dose level
- +Your healthcare provider recommends dose escalation based on your response
- +Lab work or clinical assessments support a higher dose
Decrease if
- -Side effects are bothersome or impacting daily life despite management strategies
- -You experience any signs of an adverse reaction
- -Lab results indicate the need for dose reduction
- -Your healthcare provider recommends a lower dose based on your response
Signs of right dose
- ✓Therapeutic goals being met with minimal side effects
- ✓Stable and consistent response to treatment
- ✓Lab values or clinical markers trending in the right direction
- ✓Good tolerance with manageable or absent side effects
Dosing Calculator
Calculate Your Exact Dose
Step 1: Peptide Weight
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Suitability
Is this
right for me?
Best For
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.
Consider Alternatives If
Who Should Avoid
Do not use if
- ×Wilson's disease (genetic copper metabolism disorder)
- ×Known hypersensitivity to copper compounds or GHK-Cu
- ×Active skin infections at the application site
- ×Severe hepatic impairment (reduced copper clearance capacity)
Use with caution if
- !You are taking other medications—discuss potential interactions with your healthcare provider
- !You have a history of liver or kidney disease
- !You are elderly or have multiple medical conditions
- !You are planning surgery in the near future—inform your surgeon about Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu) use
- !You have any chronic health conditions that require regular monitoring
Administration
How do I
use it?
Reconstitution
What you need
- •Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu) in its prescribed form
- •Clean, dry storage container
- •Measuring device if applicable (oral syringe, measuring cup)
- •Calendar or reminder app for dosing schedule
Injection
Route
Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu) is administered Topical—no injection required
Best sites
- •Not applicable—this is not an injectable formulation
Technique
- 1.Follow the specific administration instructions for your Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu) formulation
- 2.Take or apply as directed by your healthcare provider
- 3.Store properly between uses according to package instructions
Storage
Signs of degradation
Sample Daily Schedule
Safety
Is it
safe?
Safety Profile
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.
Evidence comes from in vitro cosmetic safety studies, animal skin irritation models showing good tolerability, and decades of cosmetic industry use in topical formulations without reported serious adverse events. No human pharmacokinetics, systemic absorption studies, or clinical efficacy trials exist. The safety profile is inferred primarily from its use as a cosmetic ingredient rather than from formal human studies.
Common Side Effects
Experienced by some users
Mild Tingling or Warmth
Common initial sensation upon topical application, particularly on sensitive skin. Typically resolves within minutes.
Management: Normal response to copper peptide. If persistent, dilute product or reduce application frequency.
Transient Redness
Temporary redness at application site, more common at higher concentrations or on reactive skin types.
Management: Start with lower concentration. Patch test before full-face application. Reduce if redness persists beyond 30 minutes.
Skin Dryness or Peeling
Mild dryness during initial adjustment period, particularly in those with dry skin types.
Management: Follow copper peptide application with a hydrating moisturizer. Ensure adequate overall skin hydration.
Less Common
- •Injection Site Reactions
- •Allergic Contact Dermatitis
These typically resolve with continued use or dose adjustment.
Stop and Seek Help If
- ×Severe or worsening side effects that don't improve with dose adjustment or supportive care
- ×Signs of an allergic reaction—rash, hives, swelling, or difficulty breathing
- ×Your healthcare provider recommends discontinuation based on your clinical response
- ×Development of any new medical condition that may be contraindicated with Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu)
- ×Pregnancy or planning to become pregnant (unless specifically approved for use during pregnancy)
- ×Abnormal lab results or clinical markers that suggest adverse effects
Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu) should only be started, adjusted, or discontinued under medical supervision. This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Never stop a prescribed treatment without consulting your healthcare provider first, as abrupt discontinuation may have consequences.
Interactions
With other peptides
- ✓May be used together under medical guidance.
- ✓May be used together under medical guidance.
- ✓May be used together under medical guidance.
With medications
- !Vitamin C (in same application) - Use with caution—discuss with your healthcare provider.
- !Strong AHAs/BHAs at Low pH - Use with caution—discuss with your healthcare provider.
- !High-Dose Zinc Supplements (systemic) - Use with caution—discuss with your healthcare provider.
With supplements
- ✓Multivitamins - Generally safe to take alongside Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu). Space doses apart if taking oral formulations to ensure optimal absorption.
- ✓Electrolyte supplements - Helpful if experiencing any GI side effects that could lead to dehydration. Safe to combine.
Effectiveness
Does it
work?
Evidence Level
Limited human trials
What to Expect
Weeks 1-4
What you might notice
- •Cellular activation begins
- •Fibroblasts increase collagen and GAG production
- •Antioxidant enzyme upregulation initiated
- •Early improvements in skin texture and hydration
What's normal
- •Full integration of Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu) into physiological systems is established
- •Long-term Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu) response remains personalized to your physiology
- •Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu) tolerance is well-maintained with consistent dosing
What's next
- →Maintain your established Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu) protocol for sustained benefits
- →Continue periodic monitoring to confirm Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu) efficacy
- →Review comprehensive Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu) response with your provider
Weeks 4-12
What you might notice
- •Visible improvements in skin firmness, elasticity, and fine line reduction
- •Wound and scar remodeling progresses
- •Hair follicle stimulation becomes apparent
- •Antioxidant enzyme levels reach enhanced steady state
What's normal
- •Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu) is now achieving steady-state pharmacokinetics
- •Measurable changes aligned with Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu)'s mechanism may appear
- •Initial adjustment effects typically resolve by this point
What's next
- →Maintain Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu) dosing exactly as established
- →Track progress toward intended outcomes in detail
- →Review lab work or biomarker changes with your healthcare team
Weeks 12-24+
What you might notice
- •Comprehensive skin rejuvenation with measurable improvements in collagen density, elasticity, and wrinkle depth
- •Continued ECM remodeling and scar maturation
- •Hair growth improvements become more pronounced with ongoing use
What's normal
- •Full therapeutic effects of Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu) are well-characterized at this point
- •Maintenance of Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu)'s therapeutic effects is typical
- •Tolerance patterns with Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu) are generally stable over months
What's next
- →Comprehensive assessment of Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu) efficacy should be conducted
- →Discuss long-term continuation, cycling, or protocol modifications
- →Continue regular monitoring of relevant biomarkers or symptoms
Signs It's Working
Treatment Response
- ✓Improvement in the primary symptoms or condition being treated
- ✓Positive changes in relevant lab values or clinical markers
- ✓Consistent, stable response to Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu) over time
- ✓Reduction in symptom frequency or severity
General Well-being
- ✓Improved energy levels and daily functioning
- ✓Better quality of life related to the treated condition
- ✓Manageable or absent side effects indicating good tolerance
- ✓Positive feedback from healthcare provider during check-ups
Not Seeing Results?
Common reasons
- •Not at therapeutic dose yet—initial doses are for building tolerance, not maximum effect
- •Insufficient time at target dose—most compounds need several weeks to show full benefits
- •Inconsistent dosing schedule—regular, consistent use is crucial for optimal results
- •Individual variation in response—genetics, metabolism, and other factors affect outcomes
- •Underlying conditions or medications interfering with absorption or effectiveness
- •Improper storage leading to degraded product—always verify proper storage conditions
Key Research
"The human tripeptide GHK-Cu in prevention of oxidative stress and degenerative conditions of aging"
Research investigators, 2020
Finding: This review highlighted GHK-Cu's antioxidant activity through superoxide dismutase upregulation and demonstrated neuroprotective properties that prevent age-associated degeneration. The peptide activates multiple protective pathways simultaneously.
View Study"Regenerative and protective actions of the GHK-Cu peptide in the light of new gene data"
Research investigators, 2020
Finding: Genetic analysis revealed GHK stimulates collagen, elastin, and glycosaminoglycan synthesis while regulating multiple repair and anti-inflammatory pathways—essentially reprogramming cells toward a younger state. Over 4,000 human genes are regulated by this single peptide.
View Study"The human tri-peptide GHK and tissue remodeling"
Research investigators, 2020
Finding: GHK-Cu demonstrated comprehensive tissue remodeling effects: it tightens loose skin, improves elasticity by up to 30%, reduces fine lines and wrinkles, and reverses photodamage. The peptide accelerates wound healing across skin, hair, and even bone tissue.
View Study"Liposomes as carriers of GHK-Cu tripeptide for cosmetic application"
Research investigators, 2020
Finding: Liposomal delivery of GHK-Cu showed 48.9% elastase inhibition, protecting skin elastin from degradation. Stable liposomes with 100 nm size improved peptide penetration while maintaining efficacy.
View Study"Effect of GHK and GHK-Cu on TGF-β secretion in normal human dermal fibroblasts"
Research investigators, 2020
Finding: In human fibroblasts, GHK-Cu at 1 nM concentration reduced excessive TGF-β1 secretion—preventing hypertrophic scarring during wound healing. This dose-dependent effect balances repair without causing fibrosis.
View StudyFrequently Asked Questions