Copper-binding tripeptide
GHK-Cu
Copper-binding tripeptide for connective tissue, skin, and hair-follicle research.
- Half-life~30 minutes plasma
- Dose range1 to 3 mg subcutaneous, 2 to 5 times weekly · 8 to 12 week cycle
- Reconstituted stability28 days, 2–8 °C
- VerificationCOA included
Mechanism
How it works.
Modulates copper-dependent enzymes. Promotes fibroblast activity, collagen synthesis, and antioxidant pathway activation. Active in hair-follicle stem cell research.
Research
What the research shows.
Five decades of cosmetic-chemistry research. Skin texture, fine lines, and wound healing are the strongest evidence areas. Hair-follicle research is preliminary but consistent.
GHK-Cu (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine bound to copper) was first characterised by Loren Pickart in 1973. The copper-bound form is the active species. The compound has the deepest cosmetic-chemistry research base of any small peptide, with five decades of skin and connective-tissue work behind it.
Modern research has expanded the activity profile to hair-follicle stem cells, antioxidant pathway modulation, and broader connective-tissue support. Topical and subcutaneous routes both have research support; the cosmetic-chemistry literature is heaviest on topical use.
Contraindications
When not to use.
Wilson disease (copper-handling disorder). Sensitivity to copper. Pregnancy without clinical oversight.
Optimal pairings
Stacks well with.
Information is educational, derived from published research. Not medical advice. All compounds sold for research use only. Bloodwork and a clinical consultation should precede any new protocol.