Compound profile
GHK-Cu
Also known as Copper peptide, Copper tripeptide-1
Last reviewed October 2026
Educational only. A summary of published research, not medical advice or a recommendation. No doses are listed.
Quick take
A naturally occurring copper-binding peptide (glycine–histidine–lysine) found in human blood plasma.
- Class
- Tissue-repair peptides
- Status
- Not approved
- Evidence
- Early or small human studies
- Half-life
- Not well documented
Mechanism fingerprint
What it acts on, and how. Each chip links to that pathway on the map.
- Binds copper
- Collagen (studied)
Studied for effects on collagen production, wound healing and skin remodeling. Levels in the body decline with age.
What makes it different
Occurs naturally in human plasma and carries copper; studied mostly for skin, collagen and wound healing.
Compare side by side
Mechanism & pathways
- NoteBinds copper
-
Studied link
Collagen production
Collagen is the main structural protein of skin, tendons and connective tissue.
Evidence overview
Early or small human studies
Lab studies plus small studies of products applied to the skin. Injected use has not been studied in rigorous human trials.
A breakdown into human, animal and cell studies hasn't been added for this compound yet.
Why it's used
Used in skin and hair products for claimed firming, wound-healing and anti-aging effects.
Side effects & risks
Reported side effects
- Topical use: occasional skin irritation
Risks and warnings
- Safety of injected use is not established
- Products sold as “research use only” are not quality-controlled medicines; purity, sterility and labeled amount are not verified.
FAQ
Short answers taken from this profile.
What is GHK-Cu?
A naturally occurring copper-binding peptide (glycine–histidine–lysine) found in human blood plasma.
How does GHK-Cu work?
Studied for effects on collagen production, wound healing and skin remodeling. Levels in the body decline with age.
What receptors or pathways does GHK-Cu act on?
collagen production (studied link). Links marked “studied” or “proposed” come from early research and aren't confirmed in people.
How is GHK-Cu different from similar compounds?
Occurs naturally in human plasma and carries copper; studied mostly for skin, collagen and wound healing.
Is GHK-Cu approved?
Not approved as a drug. Widely used in topical skin and hair cosmetics.
What has GHK-Cu been studied for?
Used in skin and hair products for claimed firming, wound-healing and anti-aging effects.
How strong is the evidence?
Early or small human studies. Lab studies plus small studies of products applied to the skin. Injected use has not been studied in rigorous human trials.
What are the main risks?
Safety of injected use is not established. Products sold as “research use only” are not quality-controlled medicines; purity, sterility and labeled amount are not verified.
Sources
- Pickart L, Margolina A. Regenerative and protective actions of the GHK-Cu peptide in the light of the new gene data. Int J Mol Sci 2018.