How it works
Delivers copper into cells and resets gene expression toward a younger profile, upregulating collagen, elastin and glycosaminoglycan synthesis while activating antioxidant defences and hair-follicle enlargement.
Structure: Tripeptide (Gly-His-Lys) with copper(II)
Reported benefits
- Increased collagen and elastin production
- Improved skin firmness and reduced fine lines
- Hair-follicle stimulation
- Accelerated wound healing
Practical considerations
- Topical formulations are the safest starting point
- Do not combine directly with vitamin C or strong acids in the same layer
- Injectable use can cause significant flushing and irritation
Side effects and risks
- Skin irritation or redness
- Copper accumulation with excessive systemic use
- Injection-site swelling
GHK-Cu dosing overview
Topical 1–3% serum daily; injectable protocols vary widely
| Context | Amount | Frequency | Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| Topical skincare | 1–3% serum | Once or twice daily | Topical |
| Scalp / hair use | 1–2% solution | Daily | Topical |
| Injectable protocols | Highly variable | Variable | Subcutaneous (unapproved) |
This describes doses reported in published literature and community protocols. It is not a recommendation, and it is not a substitute for clinical supervision.
GHK-Cu FAQ
What does GHK-Cu do for skin?
It is a copper-binding tripeptide that stimulates collagen and elastin synthesis and modulates wound-repair gene expression. Topical human studies show measurable improvements in firmness and fine lines.
Can you use GHK-Cu with vitamin C or acids?
Common practice is to separate them. Low pH and strong antioxidants can destabilise the copper complex, so they are usually applied at different times of day.
Is injectable GHK-Cu safe?
It is unapproved and much less studied than topical use. Injecting a copper complex carries risks that topical application does not; the evidence base does not support it.
Research references
- Pickart & Margolina, 2018 — GHK-Cu regenerative and protective actions