Peptide Reference
GHK-Cu
Glycyl-L-Histidyl-L-Lysine Copper Complex
A naturally occurring copper peptide found in human plasma, saliva, and urine. Declines significantly with age. Known for tissue repair, skin regeneration, and anti-aging properties.
Status
research
Category
healing
Typical cost
$25-60/vial (50mg)
Mechanism
Modulates gene expression related to tissue repair, stimulates collagen and elastin production, enhances antioxidant defense, and promotes blood vessel growth. Copper ion enables cellular signaling for regeneration.
Potential benefits
- Improved skin elasticity
- Reduced wrinkles
- Enhanced wound healing
- Hair growth stimulation
- Tissue repair
- Anti-inflammatory effects
- DNA repair support
- Skin rejuvenation
- Wound healing
- Hair growth
- Anti-inflammatory
- Collagen synthesis
Reported side effects
- Skin irritation (topical)
- Headache (rare)
- Nausea (rare injectable)
- Metallic taste (rare)
- Blue skin at high doses
- Copper toxicity (rare)
- Injection site reactions
Common dosing references
subcutaneous
1-2mg · Daily
4-6 weeks
topical
2-5% serum · 1-2x daily
Ongoing
subcutaneous
1-2mg · Daily, 5 days/week
8-12 weeks
topical
0.5-2% cream/serum · 1-2x daily
Ongoing
Research notes
GHK-Cu and skin regeneration
2018
Demonstrated significant improvement in skin elasticity, density, and wrinkle reduction in clinical studies
GHK peptide as a natural modulator of gene expression
2014
Identified as a regulator of multiple genes involved in tissue repair and anti-aging pathways
GHK-Cu skin aging
2015
Improved skin elasticity, density, and wrinkle reduction in clinical studies
GHK-Cu gene regulation
2010
Regulates expression of ~4000 genes, resetting them to youthful patterns
Regulatory and sourcing notes
Cosmetic ingredient status. Available in skincare products. Injectable forms considered research compounds. FDA has not approved for therapeutic use.
Widely available as cosmetic ingredient. Injectable forms from research peptide suppliers. Ensure sterile preparation if using injectable.
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