Research Only Healing & Recovery

GHK-Cu

also known as: Copper tripeptide-1, Cu-GHK, Glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine:copper(II), Prezatide copper acetate

A naturally occurring human tripeptide-copper complex with extensive topical cosmetic evidence and strong in-vitro data on collagen synthesis, angiogenesis, and anti-inflammatory signaling.

A glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine:copper(II) complex discovered in 1973 by Loren Pickart — plasma levels decline with age, and topical and injectable formulations have been studied extensively for skin regeneration, wound healing, and hair follicle signaling.

Mechanism of action

GHK-Cu upregulates expression of genes involved in tissue remodeling, collagen and glycosaminoglycan synthesis, and antioxidant defense. It modulates the expression of decorin, integrins, and fibroblast growth factors, and has been shown in genomic studies to reverse multiple age-related gene expression changes. The copper cofactor is essential for lysyl oxidase activity in collagen cross-linking.

Primary uses

  • Topical skin regeneration (cosmetic)
  • Wound healing research
  • Hair growth (topical formulations)
  • Community injectable use for skin quality and recovery

Typical dosing

1–2 mg daily (injectable, community) (subcutaneous (community); topical (cosmetic))

Community injectable dosing is not clinically validated. Cosmetic topical concentrations typically 0.05–5%.

Regulatory status

Not approved as an injectable drug. Widely used as an ingredient in cosmetic topical formulations (Copper Peptide skincare). No FDA-approved indication for subcutaneous use.

References

  1. [pubmed] 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;19:1987.
  2. [pubmed] Pickart L, et al. "The human tripeptide GHK and tissue remodeling." J Biomater Sci Polym Ed, 2008;19:969-988.
  3. [pubmed] Abdulghani AA, et al. "Effects of topical creams containing vitamin C, a copper-binding peptide cream and melatonin compared with tretinoin on the ultrastructure of normal skin." Dis Mon, 1998;44:1-22.

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TB-500

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AHK-Cu

A tripeptide copper complex studied primarily for hair follicle stimulation and anagen induction in cosmetic applications.

Matrixyl

A palmitoylated pentapeptide derived from a collagen-I breakdown fragment (KTTKS) — widely used in cosmetic topicals with clinical data supporting modest reductions in fine-line depth over 12 weeks.

Argireline

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Disclaimer

This entry is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Dosing information reflects published regulatory or research data and is not a recommendation. Many compounds described here are not approved for human use in the United States. Consult a licensed medical professional before considering any peptide therapy.