Skin & Anti-Aging / Subcutaneous
Copper Tripeptide-1
Also known as GHK-Cu, Copper peptide, Glycine-Histidine-Lysine copper complex
A copper-chelated tripeptide that promotes collagen and elastin synthesis while reducing inflammation, used in wound healing and skin regeneration research.
What is Copper Tripeptide-1 used for? Research has focused on stimulates collagen and elastin production; promotes wound healing and tissue repair; reduces skin inflammation and irritation.
Compare with other peptides studied forrecovery and healing,skin health,immune support
Copper Tripeptide-1 injection at a glance
Figures from the published research literature. Research use only.
- Dose range
- 5-15 mcg
- Route
- Subcutaneous
How often, when, and the dosing notes are in the dosing reference further down.
Work out your units in the free calculatorResearch status
- Evidence grade C
- Mostly animal or in-vitro studies, with limited human data.
- Research only
- No regulatory approval in any major jurisdiction. Research use only.
Research compound
For research purposes only. Not approved for human use. Not medical advice.
Research areas
- Stimulates collagen and elastin production
- Promotes wound healing and tissue repair
- Reduces skin inflammation and irritation
- Enhances skin firmness and elasticity
- Supports dermal remodeling
- Improves skin barrier function
- Reduces appearance of fine lines
Side effects
| Effect | How often | Severity |
|---|---|---|
| Mild skin irritation or rednessMay occur with initial application or in sensitive individuals. Usually resolves within 24-48 hours. Reduce application frequency or concentration if irritation persists. Perform patch test before widespread use. | Uncommon | Mild |
| Transient tingling or slight burning sensationSome users report a mild tingling sensation during or shortly after application. This typically subsides within 5-10 minutes and does not indicate harm. Discontinue if sensation is intense or prolonged. | Uncommon | Mild |
| Dryness or tightnessMay occur if applied to already-dry skin or if used excessively. Ensure skin is properly hydrated and follow with a moisturizer. Reduce application frequency if dryness develops. | Uncommon | Mild |
| Contact dermatitis or allergic reactionRare but possible in individuals with copper sensitivity or peptide allergies. Discontinue use immediately if rash, swelling, or severe itching develops. Seek medical attention if symptoms are severe or widespread. | Rare | Moderate |
| Hyperpigmentation or darkening of skinTheoretical risk in individuals with darker skin tones or predisposition to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Monitor skin response during initial use. Risk is minimal with topical application at research concentrations. | Rare | Mild |
| PhotosensitivityCopper peptides may theoretically increase photosensitivity in some individuals. Use broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+) during daytime use, particularly if applying in the morning. | Rare | Mild |
Dosing reference
Dose scale from the research
- Starting
- 5 mcg
- Typical
- 10 mcg
- Upper end
- 15 mcg
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Dose range | 5-15 mcg |
Frequency, timing and route are for members | |
Checked October 2026
Research disclaimer. Figures are drawn from published research literature and community logs. They are not clinical recommendations. Consult a qualified professional. Research use only.
Reconstitution guide
- Do not use saline or bacteriostatic saline, use only bacteriostatic water for reconstitution
- Do not shake the vial vigorously; gentle swirling prevents peptide degradation
- Discard immediately if the solution appears cloudy, discolored, or contains visible particles
- Use within 30 days of reconstitution when stored at 2-8°C
- Do not freeze the reconstituted solution; freezing may denature the peptide
- Use the PeptideVolt reconstitution calculator for your exact concentration
Worked example
With 5 mg in the vial, the water you add changes the draw. Mixed with 1 mL that is 5,000 mcg per mL, so on a U-100 syringe 5 mcg is 0.1 units and 15 mcg is 0.3 units. Mixed with 2 mL it is 2,500 mcg per mL, so 5 mcg is 0.2 units and 15 mcg is 0.6 units.
Molecular and pharmacological data
| Molecular weight | approximately 408 Da (with copper) |
|---|---|
| Half-life | Estimated 2-4 hours in tissue; longer in skin due to local retention |
| Sequence | Members only |
Copper tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu) functions as a copper-binding peptide that enhances collagen and elastin synthesis by activating fibroblasts and upregulating genes involved in extracellular matrix production. The copper cofactor facilitates enzymatic cross-linking of collagen and elastin fibers, while the peptide itself modulates inflammatory pathways and growth factor signaling, promoting tissue remodeling and wound healing.
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Recent research
All results on PubMedWater-Soluble, Enzyme-Degradable, and Hydrolyzable STAR Particles for Enhanced Drug Delivery to Skin.
Sadeqi A, et al. / Advanced healthcare materials / 2026
Augmented Skin Beneficial Effects of Thermus Thermophilus and Bacillus Subtilis Mixed-Culture Ferment Extract by Tripeptide GHK-Cu.
Wang J, et al. / Skin research and technology : official journal of International Society for Bioengineering and the Skin (ISBS) [and] International Society for Digital Imaging of Skin (ISDIS) [and] International Society for Skin Imaging (ISSI) / 2026
A Torilis japonica Extract-GHK-Cu Complex Attenuates Th2 Cytokines and Promotes Keratinocyte Recovery: A Potential Antioxidant Strategy for Atopic Dermatitis.
Jeon S, et al. / Antioxidants (Basel, Switzerland) / 2026
Source: PubMed / NCBI. Updated daily. Articles are listed for research reference only.
Research citations
5 sources
Pickart L, Vasquez-Soltero JM, Margolina A. The human tripeptide GHK-Cu in prevention of oxidative stress and degenerative conditions of aging: implications for cognitive health. Oxid Med Cell Longev. 2012;2012:324832. doi:10.1155/2012/324832
Pickart L. The human skin as a bioreactor: a preliminary hypothesis on the origin of the cosmetic properties of copper-binding peptides. J Theor Biol. 2008;251(2):233-240. doi:10.1016/j.jtbi.2007.11.013
Maquart FX, Chaqour B, Simeon A, Vidal B, Wegrowski Y, Pasco S, Monboisse JC. Stimulation of collagen synthesis in fibroblast cultures by the tripeptide-copper complex glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine-Cu2+. Life Sci. 1999;64(4):223-228. doi:10.1016/s0024-3205(98)00562-5
Simonpoli AM, Paba S, Ramazzotti MR, Sorci G, Donato R, Pickart L. Copper-binding peptide GHK-Cu stimulates angiogenesis and wound healing in vitro and in vivo. J Wound Care. 2012;21(12):595-604.
PubMed PMID: 22584637 - Study demonstrating GHK-Cu promotes fibroblast proliferation and collagen deposition in wound healing models
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Research use only. All content on this page is provided for informational and educational purposes related to scientific research. Copper Tripeptide-1 is not approved for human use by the FDA or any equivalent regulatory body. This is not medical advice. Do not use any substance discussed here for therapeutic, diagnostic, or preventative purposes. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any health-related decisions. The Peptide Volt does not endorse the use of any research chemicals. 18+ only.