GHK‑Cu (often written “GHK‑Cu” or “GHK‑Cu complex”) is a naturally occurring copper complex of the tripeptide glycyl‑L‑histidyl‑L‑lysine (GHK). It’s best known for skin repair, wound healing, and cosmetic anti‑aging applications, with emerging—though uneven—evidence for hair health. Below you’ll find what it is, how it works, what the research actually shows, and practical next steps.

Note on naming: You’ll see “GHK‑Cu,” “copper tripeptide‑1” (the cosmetic INCI name), and “prezatide copper.” We’ll use GHK‑Cu consistently.

Fast Answer / Executive Summary (40–60 words)

GHK‑Cu is a small, human tripeptide bound to copper(II) that acts as a copper carrier and pro‑repair signal in skin and connective tissue. Discovered in 1973, it supports collagen/glycosaminoglycan synthesis, controls matrix turnover (MMPs/TIMPs), and modulates inflammatory signaling, with human data in wound care and cosmetic skin rejuvenation, and preclinical support for hair. (PMC, PubMed)

Core Concepts & Key Entities

What is GHK‑Cu (definition)?
GHK‑Cu is a copper(II) complex of the tripeptide GHK that’s naturally present in plasma, saliva, and urine and declines with age. Typical plasma levels are ~200 ng/mL at ~20 years and ~80 ng/mL by ~60 years. Loren Pickart first isolated it from human plasma in 1973. (PMC, Wikipedia)

Why does “Cu” (copper) matter?
Copper is a cofactor for cuproenzymes (e.g., lysyl oxidase, SOD1) that drive cross‑linking of collagen/elastin and antioxidant defenses. GHK binds copper with high affinity—similar to albumin—enabling safe delivery and signaling at nanomolar concentrations. (PMC)

Mechanisms, in one line each (answer‑first):

  • Stimulates new matrix. GHK‑Cu increases collagen and glycosaminoglycans (e.g., dermatan/chondroitin sulfate) and upregulates decorin, a small proteoglycan that organizes collagen fibrils. (PubMed, PMC)
  • Balances remodeling. It modulates metalloproteinases (MMP‑2) and tissue inhibitors (TIMPs) to promote healthy turnover—clearing old matrix and laying down new. (ScienceDirect, Walsh Medical Media)
  • Quiets excessive inflammation. Copper peptide complexes lower IL‑6 output from dermal fibroblasts under TNF‑α stimulation and have been reported to reduce TGF‑β signaling in vitro. (PMC, Wiley Online Library)
  • Signals repair genes. Analyses show broad gene‑expression modulation toward pro‑repair programs (e.g., COPD lung fibroblasts shifting from destruction to remodeling). (PMC)
  • Pairs well with HA. GHK‑Cu + hyaluronic acid can synergistically increase collagens I/IV/VII in skin models. (Wiley Online Library)

Where the evidence is strongest vs. emerging

  • Stronger (human data exists): Chronic wound care (e.g., diabetic ulcers), post‑procedure skin healing, cosmetic skin rejuvenation (texture/wrinkles). (Wiley Online Library, Liebert Publications)
  • Emerging (preclinical or small/ex vivo): Hair (e.g., AHK‑Cu analog in human hair follicles ex vivo), systems biology/gene programs (in silico + in vitro). (PubMed, PMC)

Bottom line: GHK‑Cu is best framed as a skin/wound repair signal and a copper chaperone with credible human data in wound care and cosmetic rejuvenation; hair benefits are promising but rely more on analog peptides and preclinical work. (Wiley Online Library, Liebert Publications, PubMed)

Step‑by‑Step: How to Work With GHK‑Cu (form selection, quality, and practical math)

Quick orientation: GHK‑Cu is used in two broad ways—(1) topical/cosmetic formulas (serums, creams; INCI: copper tripeptide‑1), and (2) research‑grade powders/vials used to prepare solutions for lab or formulation work. The guidance below is educational only and not medical advice.

Step 1 — Pick your use case and form

  1. Cosmetic skin support (most common): Choose a topical serum/cream listing “Copper Tripeptide‑1” high enough in the INCI deck to matter, optionally paired with hyaluronic acid (HA) for hydration/synergy. (Wiley Online Library)
  2. Post‑procedure skin care (under clinician guidance): Evidence shows topical copper tripeptide complexes can support CO₂‑laser resurfacing recovery (randomized split‑face human data). (Liebert Publications)
  3. Chronic wound context (clinical setting only): A multicenter, randomized, evaluator‑blinded trial reported faster closure of diabetic foot ulcers using GHK‑Cu gel adjunctively. Clinical application belongs with clinicians. (Wiley Online Library)
  4. Hair/scalp cosmetics: Expect softer evidence (ex vivo + small studies; often AHK‑Cu, an analog). Consider GHK‑Cu as a scalp health adjunct, not a finasteride/minoxidil replacement. (PubMed)

Step 2 — Source with documentation

  • Ask for a COA (purity, identity) and ideally HPLC and mass spec data for research‑grade materials.
  • For lab supply, vetted sellers include options like GHK‑Cu 50 mg and GHK‑Cu (various sizes) at PureLabPeptides (for research use where permitted).
  • For ready‑made cosmetics, buy from reputable brands disclosing percentage or mg/mL and full INCI lists.

Step 3 — Do the concentration math correctly (formulators & researchers)

Rule of thumb: % w/v = (mg/mL) ÷ 10. So 10 mg/mL = 1.0% w/v; 1 mg/mL = 0.1% w/v.

  • Example A (simple stock): Dissolve 50 mg GHK‑Cu into 10 mL solvent → 5 mg/mL = 0.5% w/v.
  • Example B (lighter serum): Dissolve 50 mg into 50 mL → 1 mg/mL = 0.1% w/v.
  • Solvents: For topical prototypes, formulators often start with distilled water + glycerin/HA + buffer (pH ~6–7) to improve feel/stability.
  • Color check: GHK‑Cu solutions are typically blue due to the Cu(II) complex.

Prefer cool temperatures, avoid heavy metal contamination, and store airtight, protected from light per supplier guidance.

Step 4 — Patch test, then ramp

  • Patch test first on a small area for 24–48 hours.
  • Ramp frequency (e.g., every other night → nightly) to minimize irritation, especially if combining with retinoids/acids.

Step 5 — Stack smartly (compatibility)

  • Pairs well with HA; consider GHK‑Cu + HA serums for barrier support and collagen IV synergy. (Wiley Online Library)
  • With retinoids or vitamin C: Many users rotate (AM vs PM or alternate nights) to limit irritation; data on strict incompatibilities are limited—go by skin tolerance.
  • With minoxidil (scalp): Fine to separate by time (e.g., minoxidil AM, peptide PM) to reduce potential interaction irritation.

Step 6 — Track outcomes like a pro

  • Skin: photograph in consistent lighting monthly; watch fine lines, texture, blotchiness.
  • Scalp: use part‑line photos or a dermatoscope; track shedding and density (count hairs in a marked 1 cm² patch).
  • Stop if irritated beyond mild, transient tingling.

Step 7 — Need dosage math for specific vial sizes?

Compliance note: This article is for education. It is not medical advice and does not prescribe any use. Clinical wound care and post‑procedure protocols belong to licensed professionals.

Comparison & Alternatives

Answer‑first: GHK‑Cu is strongest for skin repair/rejuvenation; for hair, evidence favors standard‑of‑care (minoxidil ± finasteride) with copper peptides as adjuncts. The table below puts GHK‑Cu next to common alternatives and a hair‑focused analog.

Modality Primary mechanism Best for Evidence (human) Typical form Irritation risk
GHK‑Cu (copper tripeptide‑1) Collagen/GAG synthesis; MMP/TIMP balance; anti‑inflammatory; copper delivery; pro‑repair gene programs Skin rejuvenation (texture/fine lines), post‑procedure support; adjunctive wound care in clinical settings RCT in diabetic foot ulcers; split‑face post‑laser trial; cosmetic trials/reviews Serum/cream; research gel/powder Low‑mod
AHK‑Cu (analog) Signals dermal papilla activity; anti‑apoptotic effects ex vivo Hair/scalp cosmetics Ex vivo human follicles; limited clinical Scalp serums Low‑mod
Minoxidil Vasodilation; prolongs anagen Pattern hair loss Robust (many RCTs) Topical foam/liquid Low‑mod
Retinoids (tretinoin/retinal/retinol) ↑ cell turnover; collagen I/III synthesis Photoaging Strong (esp. Rx) Cream/serum Mod‑high
Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) Antioxidant; collagen cofactor Brightening, pigment, photoaging adjunct Moderate Serum Low‑mod

Notes & sources: GHK‑Cu wound/skin data (Mulder et al., Miller et al.; reviews); AHK‑Cu hair ex vivo (Pyo et al.); GHK‑Cu mechanisms (Simeon/Maquart; Pickart reviews). (Wiley Online Library, Liebert Publications, PubMed, PMC)

Templates / Checklist / Example

Copy‑ready checklist: “GHK‑Cu Buyer & Formulator Guide”

  • Verify purity: Request a COA with ID tests (HPLC/MS); avoid unknown‑grade sellers.
  • Confirm identity: Look for INCI “Copper Tripeptide‑1” on cosmetic labels; for powders, confirm GHK‑Cu specification.
  • Pick the right vehicle: Serum/cream with HA for dry or post‑procedure skin; light serum for oily skin/scalp. (Wiley Online Library)
  • Mind concentration: Use the % w/v = (mg/mL)/10 rule; prototype conservative and patch test.
  • Check color & stability: Blue tint is normal; store cool, dark, airtight per supplier.
  • Stack safely: Separate actives (retinoids/acids) by time if sensitive; pair with SPF daily.
  • Track results: Monthly photos, consistent lighting; log irritation and improvements.
  • Know the limits: Hair evidence is early; keep expectations realistic and continue proven therapies. (PubMed)
  • Clinical settings only: Ulcer/wound use belongs to licensed clinicians following protocols. (Wiley Online Library)
  • Respect regulations: Research‑grade peptides are not drugs/cosmetics unless labeled and registered as such.

FAQs (Answer‑first, 40–80 words each)

1) What is GHK‑Cu?
GHK‑Cu is a copper complex of the tripeptide glycyl‑L‑histidyl‑L‑lysine that naturally occurs in humans and declines with age. It signals tissue repair, boosts collagen and glycosaminoglycans, modulates matrix‑remodeling enzymes, and tempers inflammatory signaling—key reasons it appears in skin rejuvenation and wound‑care contexts. (PMC, PubMed)

2) How does GHK‑Cu help skin?
GHK‑Cu supports skin by increasing collagen/dermatan/chondroitin sulfate, upregulating decorin, and balancing MMPs/TIMPs, which improves matrix quality while avoiding over‑scar formation. Human trials also show benefits in chronic wound closure and post‑laser healing under clinician protocols. (PMC, PubMed, Wiley Online Library, Liebert Publications)

3) Does GHK‑Cu regrow hair?
Evidence for hair is preliminary. A related analog, AHK‑Cu, has ex vivo data showing hair follicle elongation and dermal papilla proliferation in human samples; real‑world scalp outcomes are mixed and far less proven than minoxidil/finasteride. Consider copper peptides an adjunct for scalp health, not a replacement. (PubMed)

4) Is GHK‑Cu safe?
Topical GHK‑Cu is generally well‑tolerated in cosmetic and clinical studies, and the peptide binds copper tightly (limiting free‑copper reactivity). As with any active, patch test and discontinue if irritation occurs; clinical wound use should be supervised by professionals. (PMC, Liebert Publications)

5) What’s the difference between GHK and GHK‑Cu?
GHK is the peptide; GHK‑Cu is the peptide bound to copper(II). Most biological effects appear to require the copper complex (or are stronger with it), likely due to the copper‑delivery and signaling roles central to repair pathways. (PMC)

6) Can I combine GHK‑Cu with retinoids or vitamin C?
Yes, but pace yourself. There’s no strong evidence of chemical incompatibility; staggering applications (AM vs PM or alternating nights) reduces irritation risk while letting you observe each active’s effect. Pair with HA for hydration and daily SPF for best results. (Wiley Online Library)

Evidence Highlights (what moves the needle)

  • Discovery & decline with age: Isolated from plasma in 1973; ~200 ng/mL (young adults) → ~80 ng/mL (older adults). Takeaway: endogenous signal that wanes with age. (Wikipedia, PMC)
  • Wound‑healing RCT (diabetic foot): GHK‑Cu gel improved median closure (98.5% vs 60.8%) and rate of healing vs. vehicle, adjunct to standard care. Takeaway: clinician‑directed use has human data. (Wiley Online Library)
  • Post‑laser clinical data: Randomized split‑face trials show improved healing and appearance after CO₂ laser resurfacing with topical copper tripeptide complexes. Takeaway: supports post‑procedure care. (Liebert Publications)
  • Mechanistic bedrock: In vivo and cell studies demonstrate collagen/GAG synthesis, decorin upregulation, and MMP/TIMP modulation. Takeaway: matches the clinical effects observed. (PMC, PubMed, ScienceDirect)
  • Gene‑expression program: Analyses suggest broad pro‑repair gene shifts (e.g., COPD cell models). Takeaway: plausible systems‑level mechanism but still translational. (PMC)

Information‑Gain Corner: The “3R” Mental Model for GHK‑Cu

Use this to sanity‑check product claims and protocols:

  1. Repair (acute): Look for human data (e.g., clinical wound or post‑procedure trials). Expect time‑bound protocols under professional oversight. (Wiley Online Library, Liebert Publications)
  2. Remodel (cosmetic): Expect gradual changes in texture, fine lines, tone via collagen/GAG/Decorin pathways and inflammation moderation—track progress monthly. (PMC)
  3. Re‑equip (cofactor): Remember GHK‑Cu’s copper‑chaperone role; aim for consistency over megadoses, and pair with HA for barrier support. (PMC, Wiley Online Library)

Next Steps

If you’re formulating or researching:

If you’re a skincare user:

  • Choose a reputable copper tripeptide‑1 serum (ideally with HA), patch test, and track results monthly.
  • For procedures or chronic wounds, work with a clinician—that’s where the strongest human data lives.

Takeaway: GHK‑Cu is a credible skin‑repair signal with human data in wound care and post‑procedure settings and growing cosmetic support; hair claims are promising but early—use it as an adjunct, not a replacement. (Wiley Online Library, Liebert Publications, PubMed)