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GHK-Cu

Compoundable (Rx)

Anti-Aging Peptides · Skin & Longevity

GHK-Cu (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine copper complex) is a naturally occurring tripeptide-copper complex found in human plasma, saliva, and urine.

What is GHK-Cu?

GHK-Cu (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine copper complex) is a naturally occurring tripeptide-copper complex found in human plasma, saliva, and urine. It declines significantly with age and has been shown to promote skin remodeling, wound healing, hair growth, and tissue repair. It is used both as an injectable peptide and in topical skincare formulations.

Also known as: Copper Peptide, Copper Tripeptide-1, GHK-Copper

How Does GHK-Cu Work?

Activates genes involved in tissue remodeling, including collagen synthesis, glycosaminoglycan production, and growth factor expression. Modulates gene expression of over 4,000 human genes, generally shifting them toward a healthier, younger pattern. Chelates copper to sites of tissue damage and stimulates stem cell activity.

Molecular Formula: C14H23CuN6O4
Molecular Weight: 403.92 Da
Sequence: Gly-His-Lys:Cu

What is GHK-Cu Used For?

  • Anti-aging
  • Skin rejuvenation
  • Wound healing
  • Hair growth
  • Tissue repair

Potential Side Effects

  • Injection site irritation
  • Skin sensitivity (topical)
  • Mild stomach upset (rare)

Contraindications

  • Wilson's disease
  • Copper sensitivity
  • Pregnancy

FDA Legal Status

United States — FDA

Compoundable (Rx)

Category 1 (restored 2026)

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Head-to-head comparisons:

GHK-Cu vs Argireline

Frequently Asked Questions

Does GHK-Cu really work for anti-aging?
Research shows GHK-Cu stimulates collagen production, improves skin thickness and elasticity, and modulates thousands of genes toward a younger expression pattern. Human studies show visible improvements in skin texture, fine lines, and firmness within 8-12 weeks of topical use.
Is GHK-Cu better as an injection or topical?
Both forms are effective for different purposes. Topical GHK-Cu is well-studied for skin improvements (anti-aging, wound healing). Injectable GHK-Cu may provide more systemic anti-aging effects and is used for tissue repair beyond the skin.
What age should you start using GHK-Cu?
GHK-Cu levels in blood plasma drop from ~200ng/mL at age 20 to ~80ng/mL by age 60. Many practitioners recommend supplementation starting in the late 30s to 40s, when natural levels begin to decline significantly.

Quick Facts

Legal Status (USA)
Compoundable (Rx)
FDA Category
Category 1 (restored 2026)
Evidence Rating
BModerate Evidence (Some Human Data)
Class / Subclass
Anti-Aging Peptides / Skin & Longevity
Administration
subcutaneous, topical
Typical Dosage
1-2mg daily (injectable); 1-2% concentration (topical)
Half-Life
~2-4 hours
Year Discovered
1973

Sources

PubMed 24508075PubMed 25989472

Last updated: 2026-04-01

Sources & references

Primary sources used for the dosing, mechanism, side-effect, and regulatory claims on this page. Verify time-sensitive information (regulatory status, prescribing details) on the source before relying on it for medical decisions. See our disclaimer.

  1. PubMed PMID 24508075 — peer-reviewed primary literature on GHK-Cu.
  2. PubMed PMID 25989472 — peer-reviewed primary literature on GHK-Cu.
  3. FDA Federal Register — official notice record for FDA regulatory actions and Category 1 / 503A bulk-substance updates.