GHK-Cu
Copper Peptide GHK-Cu
A copper peptide studied for skin aging and wound repair
GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring copper peptide found in human plasma, saliva, and urine. It was first identified in 1973 and has since been studied mainly for skin aging and wound healing. Human evidence is limited to small topical cream studies, and as of October 2026, injected GHK-Cu has no human trials.
Read the research profile for mechanisms, citations, and safety context before comparing vendors. View the GHK-Cu research profile.
Key Benefits
Mechanism of Action
GHK-Cu binds copper ions and is thought to deliver them to tissues. Cell-line gene data analyzed by its discoverer's group suggest it changes the activity of about 31% of human genes, particularly those involved in tissue remodeling, antioxidant defense, and inflammation control. In cell and animal studies, the peptide stimulates collagen and elastin synthesis and promotes angiogenesis. Small topical studies in women reported more skin collagen, but the gene data haven't been tested in people.
Dosing Guidelines
Typical Dose
1-2 mg
Frequency
Daily
Duration
8-12 weeks
Note: Topical creams are the only form tested in people. The 1-2 mg daily subcutaneous amount and 8-12 week duration come from user reports, not trials. For research purposes: as of October 2026, there's no human evidence that injection beats topical use.
Research & Studies
Explore how GHK-Cu works at the cellular level, including receptor binding and signal transduction pathways.
Read Full ResearchGHK-Cu's role in tissue regeneration and how it compares to other recovery peptides for healing applications.
Read Full ResearchWhere GHK-Cu fits in the landscape of peptides, from growth hormone secretagogues to recovery compounds.
Read Full ResearchGeneral peptide safety, including monitoring and potential interactions, with context for GHK-Cu.
Read Full ResearchPotential Side Effects
Reported side effects may include:
- - Injection-site burning or stinging (user reports)
- - Temporary skin redness (topical use)
- - Nausea or headache (occasional user reports)
- - Rare allergic reactions to copper
- - Slight metallic taste (uncommon; vendor lists)
This information is for research purposes only. Always consult with a healthcare professional.
Popular Stacking Options
GHK-Cu + BPC-157
A common user pairing for skin and injury recovery; both are studied for tissue repair, mostly in animals. The combination hasn't been tested.
Shop this stackGHK-Cu + TB-500
Paired by users for tissue repair. TB-500 has no human data, and the combination hasn't been studied.
Shop this stackGHK-Cu + Epithalon
Paired by users for anti-aging. Epithalon's telomere data come from cell culture, and the pairing hasn't been studied.
Shop this stackFrequently Asked Questions
Is GHK-Cu better injected or applied topically?
As of October 2026, only topical GHK-Cu has been tested in people, in small cream studies. Injection has animal data but no human trials, and users who inject often report burning. FDA lists non-injectable GHK-Cu in 503A Category 1 (under evaluation for compounding); injectable GHK-Cu awaits an advisory committee review planned by February 2027.
How long until I see skin improvements from GHK-Cu?
Published topical trials measured fewer fine lines and thicker skin after 12 weeks of cream use (one facial study had 71 women). Vendors and users often claim texture changes within 2-4 weeks; the trials we reviewed didn't report that.
Can GHK-Cu help with hair loss?
Reviews by its discoverer's group report increased hair growth and larger follicles, mostly in lab research. We didn't find a controlled human trial on hair loss.
Is GHK-Cu safe for all skin types?
Being natural doesn't by itself make it safe. Topical use can cause temporary redness. Individuals with copper sensitivity should exercise caution. A patch test is recommended for topical use, and anyone considering it should talk to a healthcare professional.
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