GHK
Also known as: Glycyl-L-Histidyl-L-Lysine, GHK without copper
GHK is a naturally occurring tripeptide with wound healing and anti-aging properties. Unlike GHK-Cu, it does not contain copper and may have different bioavailability.
Research Status
Research compound - used in cosmetics
For research purposes only. Not approved for human use. Not medical advice.
Research Areas
Side Effects
Redness, mild swelling, or bruising at the injection site typically resolve within 24-48 hours. Minimize by rotating sites, using proper injection technique, and allowing the solution to reach room temperature before injection.
May occur immediately after injection and usually resolves within minutes to hours. Not a sign of allergy unless accompanied by systemic symptoms.
Reported anecdotally in some users; may be related to hydration status or individual sensitivity. Ensure adequate water intake.
Transient vasodilation may occur in sensitive individuals. Typically resolves within 30 minutes.
Reported rarely; may be dose-dependent. Take with food if this occurs.
Although rare, peptide allergies are possible. Discontinue immediately and seek medical attention if you develop hives, difficulty breathing, or facial swelling. Individuals with known peptide allergies should avoid use.
Prolonged use at the same injection site can cause localised fat loss. Prevent by strictly rotating injection sites with each dose and spacing injections at least 1 inch apart.
Dosing Reference
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Dose range | 1-3 mg |
| Frequency | Daily |
| Timing | Any time |
| Route | Subcutaneous, Topical |
Can be used topically or systemically. Often compared to GHK-Cu.
Research disclaimer
Figures drawn from published research literature and community logs. 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
Molecular and Pharmacological Data
| Molecular weight | 346.4 Da |
| Half-life | Estimated 30 minutes to 1 hour in circulation (varies by route and individual metabolism) |
| Sequence | Gly-His-Lys |
GHK is a naturally occurring tripeptide (glycine-histidine-lysine) that promotes wound healing, collagen synthesis, and tissue remodeling through multiple signaling pathways. Unlike GHK-Cu (which contains copper), free GHK acts primarily through growth factor modulation and direct cellular signaling, with potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. It is thought to enhance skin barrier function and promote fibroblast activity, making it relevant for anti-aging and dermatological applications.
Growth Factor Signaling
GHK stimulates the production and activity of growth factors including TGF-β, FGF, and VEGF, which promote collagen deposition, angiogenesis, and tissue repair.
Fibroblast Activation
GHK directly activates dermal fibroblasts, increasing their proliferation and collagen (types I and III) synthesis, which supports skin elasticity and firmness.
Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Response
GHK reduces oxidative stress and inflammatory cytokine production, protecting skin cells from damage and supporting a healthier skin microenvironment.
Wound Healing and Remodeling
GHK accelerates the proliferative and remodeling phases of wound healing by promoting cell migration, differentiation, and extracellular matrix reorganization.
- GHK is a naturally occurring tripeptide found in human plasma, saliva, and other body fluids at concentrations that decline with age.
- Unlike GHK-Cu, free GHK does not chelate copper and may have different bioavailability and tissue distribution.
- GHK has been shown in vitro and in animal models to promote collagen synthesis, wound healing, and skin barrier repair.
- The peptide's effects are mediated through multiple receptors and signaling cascades, not a single target.
- Topical and systemic administration routes may have different efficacy profiles; topical application may achieve higher local skin concentrations.
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View all peptidesResearch Use Only. All content on this page is provided for informational and educational purposes related to scientific research. GHK 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.