GHK-Cu

Copper Peptide · Skin Regeneration & Anti-Aging Compound

Overview

Naturally occurring copper tripeptide found in human plasma, saliva, and urine. GHK-Cu affects 31.2% of human genes and declines significantly with age—from ~200 ng/ml at age 20 to ~80 ng/ml at age 60. Known for exceptional skin regeneration, wound healing, and anti-aging properties.

Penetrates skin layers, activates fibroblasts, stimulates collagen and elastin synthesis, promotes angiogenesis, and modulates inflammatory responses. The copper ion is essential for enzyme cofactor activity in tissue repair processes.

Increases type I and III collagen production by up to 70% in human dermal fibroblasts.

Stimulates elastin synthesis for improved skin elasticity and resilience.

Strengthens protective barrier and improves moisture retention.

Promotes hair follicle enlargement and extends anagen (growth) phase.

Mechanism

Increases type I and III collagen production by up to 70% in human dermal fibroblasts.

Research areas

Naturally occurring copper tripeptide found in human plasma, saliva, and urine. GHK-Cu affects 31.2% of human genes and declines significantly with age—from ~200 ng/ml at age 20 to ~80 ng/ml at age 60. Known for exceptional skin regeneration, wound healing, and anti-aging properties.
Penetrates skin layers, activates fibroblasts, stimulates collagen and elastin synthesis, promotes angiogenesis, and modulates inflammatory responses. The copper ion is essential for enzyme cofactor activity in tissue repair processes.
Increases type I and III collagen production by up to 70% in human dermal fibroblasts.
Stimulates elastin synthesis for improved skin elasticity and resilience.
Strengthens protective barrier and improves moisture retention.
Promotes hair follicle enlargement and extends anagen (growth) phase.
Improves scalp circulation and reduces inflammation.
Regulates inflammatory cytokine production.
Protects tissues from oxidative stress and damage.

Research notes

Mild skin irritation initially (usually resolves)
Increased photosensitivity
Severe skin irritation, burning, or persistent redness
Allergic reactions (rash, swelling, difficulty breathing)
Unusual skin discoloration or staining
Persistent metallic taste (injectable)
Worsening of skin condition after 4-6 weeks
Known copper sensitivity or Wilson's disease
Active skin infections at application site
Pregnancy or breastfeeding (injectable)
Topical GHK-Cu (0.5-2% creams/serums) is effective for skin applications with visible improvements in collagen, elastin, fine lines, and skin texture. Injectable forms (1-3mg SubQ) provide systemic benefits but lack FDA approval. For skin-focused anti-aging, topical is convenient and well-researched; for systemic effects, injection is more bioavailable.

AXIOM catalogue

GHK-Cu — research-use catalogue record with strengths and available batch details where listed.

References

FAQs

How much does GHK-Cu decline with age and why does that matter?

GHK-Cu levels drop dramatically from ~200 ng/ml at age 20 to ~80 ng/ml at age 60—a 60% decline. Since GHK-Cu affects 31.2% of human genes, this decline contributes significantly to aging phenotypes. Supplementation aims to restore youthful peptide levels and potentially reverse age-related gene expression changes.

Can I safely combine GHK-Cu topically with retinoids?

GHK-Cu can be combined with retinoids but may increase skin sensitivity and irritation, requiring careful introduction. Start with lower GHK-Cu concentrations (0.5%) and alternate retinoid use, or apply them on different days. Patch testing is essential before full-face combined use.

How long does it take to see visible skin improvements with GHK-Cu?

Timeline for topical GHK-Cu: improved hydration in weeks 1-2, reduction in fine lines by weeks 3-4, noticeable elasticity improvements by weeks 6-8, and peak anti-aging effects by weeks 8-12. Hair growth benefits take longer—typically 6-12 weeks for initial follicle stimulation effects.