GHK-Cu
Also known as Copper Peptide GHK-Cu
GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide first identified in human plasma, where its levels are known to decline with age. It has been studied for decades for its apparent role in stimulating collagen and elastin synthesis, supporting wound healing, and promoting skin remodeling. Research spans both topical cosmetic applications and subcutaneous use in tissue-repair contexts. GHK-Cu is one of the more extensively studied peptides in dermatological and wound-care literature. Findings suggest broad tissue-remodeling activity beyond skin, including potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Reported benefits
- Studied for stimulating collagen and elastin synthesis
- Investigated for skin firmness and wrinkle appearance support
- Explored for wound healing acceleration
- Studied for antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity
- Reported in research for hair follicle stimulation
How it works
GHK-Cu is thought to activate copper-dependent enzymes involved in collagen and elastin cross-linking, supporting extracellular matrix remodeling. Research suggests it may also modulate gene expression related to tissue repair, antioxidant defense, and anti-inflammatory signaling. These combined actions are proposed to underlie its studied effects on skin firmness, wound closure, and hair follicle activity.
Dosing ranges
| Tier | Dose | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Low | 1 mg | once daily |
| Moderate | 2 mg | once daily |
| High | 3 mg | once daily |
Estimate your dose
Dose estimator
Educational estimate for GHK-Cu, scaled to body size. Not medical advice.
Read before using
This tool produces a rough, educational estimate by scaling commonly-published research ranges to lean body mass. It is not a prescription, medical advice, or a substitute for a licensed clinician. Most peptides use fixed dosing, not weight-based dosing. Individual needs vary. You are solely responsible for how you use this information.
Mixing & syringe units
Target dose follows the estimate above. Change it there, or edit it directly below.
Reconstitution calculator
How much water to add and how many insulin-syringe units to draw for GHK-Cu. Educational only.
Draw to this mark
40units
= 0.4 mL for a 2 mg dose
Concentration
5 mg/mL
Doses per vial
5
A U-100 syringe reads 100 units per mL. This is a reconstitution math helper only, not a prescription or dosing advice. Verify every calculation and consult a qualified healthcare provider.
Possible side effects
Stacking notes
Frequently paired with other healing peptides such as BPC-157 in skin- and wound-focused research protocols.
Common protocols
Common questions
What is GHK-Cu used for?
GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide first identified in human plasma, where its levels are known to decline with age. It has been studied for decades for its apparent role in stimulating collagen and elastin synthesis, supporting wound healing, and promoting skin remodeling. Research spans both topical cosmetic applications and subcutaneous use in tissue-repair contexts. GHK-Cu is one of the more extensively studied peptides in dermatological and wound-care literature. Findings suggest broad tissue-remodeling activity beyond skin, including potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Reported benefits include studied for stimulating collagen and elastin synthesis, investigated for skin firmness and wrinkle appearance support, explored for wound healing acceleration.
What is a typical GHK-Cu dose?
Reported ranges run 1-3 mg. A low protocol is 1 mg once daily, and a high protocol is 3 mg once daily. This is reference information, not a dosing recommendation.
What is the half life of GHK-Cu?
Short systemic half-life of approximately 30 minutes; topical formulations act locally over longer periods. That is what sets the dosing frequency, and it is why the timing guidance is evening.
How is GHK-Cu administered?
Subcutaneous: into fat, under the skin. Also widely used topically in cosmetic formulations for skin applications; subcutaneous injection is more common in systemic research contexts.
How long is a GHK-Cu cycle?
4-8 weeks on, followed by 2-4 weeks off. Topical use is often continuous, while subcutaneous protocols are commonly cycled.
What are the side effects of GHK-Cu?
Reported side effects include skin irritation with topical use, injection site reaction with subcutaneous use, temporary redness, rare allergic reaction related to copper. Evidence level for this compound is well studied.
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Educational use only, not medical advice. This profile is provided for research and educational purposes. GHK-Cu may be a research compound or a prescription medication; nothing here is intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Dosing figures reflect commonly-published research ranges, not a prescription. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before making any health decision. Read the full disclaimer →