GHK-Cu

GHK-Cu is the tripeptide glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine complexed with copper. It occurs naturally in human plasma, where its concentration declines with age, and it has a strong affinity for copper ions.

It is one of the best-characterized copper peptides in the research literature and is a common cosmetic ingredient.

It is widely known in skincare and anti-aging communities for its reputed ability to promote collagen production, skin rejuvenation, and wound healing.

GHK-Cu (copper peptide) is popular in skin-health and anti-aging circles for its purported role in stimulating collagen and elastin synthesis, and researchers are investigating its effects on skin firmness, wrinkle reduction, and tissue remodeling.

Enthusiasts anecdotally associate it with improved wound healing, hair-follicle support, and antioxidant activity, and preclinical studies have explored its reputed regenerative and anti-inflammatory properties.

These represent areas of active cosmetic and preclinical research plus community interest, not clinically established human outcomes.

Research has examined GHK-Cu for its role in copper transport and in modulating gene expression associated with tissue remodeling and the extracellular matrix. Studies have looked at effects on collagen and related structural proteins in laboratory models.

Published work has investigated GHK-Cu in skin, wound-model, and hair-follicle research, as well as broader gene-expression profiling. Much of the interest centers on its copper-binding chemistry.

GHK-Cu ships lyophilized (with its characteristic blue color from the copper complex) and is stored at -20°C, protected from light. Reconstituted with sterile or bacteriostatic water, it is held at 4°C short-term or aliquoted at -80°C.