GHK-Cu
Also known as: Copper Peptide, GHK-Copper, Glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine copper
Tripeptide-copper complex that stimulates collagen synthesis, wound healing, and skin regeneration.
Benefits
7
Conditions
6
Evidence
Multiple in vitro and animal studies, limited human clinical trials+ studies
Source
Naturally occurring tripeptide, synthesized for therapeutic use
Gabriel Brain Score
Moderate
Overview
Tripeptide-copper complex that stimulates collagen synthesis, wound healing, and skin regeneration.
Mechanism of Action
Binds and delivers copper(II) ions to cells for enzymatic processes, activates fibroblasts to produce type I/III collagen and elastin, stimulates MMPs and TIMPs for matrix remodeling, reduces inflammation via cytokine modulation, blocks ferritin iron release to prevent oxidative damage.
Key Benefits
- ✓Increases collagen and elastin production
- ✓Accelerates wound healing
- ✓Reduces wrinkles and fine lines
- ✓Improves skin firmness and elasticity
- ✓Promotes hair follicle growth
- ✓Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects
- ✓Skin penetration for deep tissue repair
Clinical Applications
Dosing Guidelines
Topical cream/serum
Subcutaneous injection
* Dosing should be individualized. Always consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner.
Research & Evidence
Multiple in vitro and animal studies, limited human clinical trials
Well-established mechanisms for collagen synthesis and wound healing in preclinical models. Human cosmetic studies show improvements in skin texture and firmness.
Safety Information
Potential Side Effects
- •Mild skin irritation (topical)
- •Blue/green discoloration at injection sites
- •Headache
Contraindications
- Wilson's disease
- Copper allergy
- Pregnancy
Interactions
- ⚠Avoid with other copper-containing supplements
Quick Facts
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