GHK-Cu
Also known as: Copper Peptide, GHK-Copper, Glycyl-L-Histidyl-L-Lysine-Copper
GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring copper complex that plays multiple roles in wound healing, skin regeneration, and anti-aging. It can be used both topically and systemically. Copper peptides stimulate collagen and elastin production.
Beginner Basics
Plain-English guide to GHK-Cu
What it does
GHK-Cu is a natural copper compound that tells your body to make more collagen and elastin (the proteins that keep skin firm and elastic). Researchers use it to improve skin healing, reduce signs of aging, and stimulate hair growth.
Typical dose
For injection: 1-3 mg per dose, 2-3 times per week under the skin. For topical: apply a 1-3% solution daily to clean skin.
When to inject
Injectable timing is flexible-pick a consistent schedule that works for you. Topical can be applied anytime to clean skin, usually morning or night.
Storage
Keep injectable powder in the refrigerator. Once mixed with liquid, refrigerate it. Topical cream stays stable at room temperature.
First-timer tip
Start with the lower end of the dose range (1 mg injections or 1% topical) to see how your body responds before increasing.
On This Page
Research Status
Well-researched, used in cosmetic products
For research purposes only. Not approved for human use. Not medical advice.
Research Areas
Side Effects
Typically resolves within 24-48 hours. Related to injection trauma rather than peptide toxicity. Can be minimized with proper injection technique and site rotation.
May occur at injection site or systemically. Usually transient and resolves within hours. May indicate local inflammatory response or histamine release.
Swelling typically subsides within 24-72 hours. Can be managed with ice application for 10 minutes post-injection.
May occur due to vasodilation from peptide signaling. Typically mild and temporary, lasting minutes to hours.
Rare systemic effect, possibly related to rapid signaling cascade activation. Usually resolves within hours.
Could manifest as rash, urticaria, or localized edema in sensitive individuals. Discontinue use and seek medical attention if occurs.
May occur with topical application in individuals with sensitive skin. Reduce frequency or discontinue if irritation develops.
Theoretical risk with chronic high-dose systemic use. Copper is essential at physiological levels but toxic at excessive levels. Not typically a concern with recommended dosing protocols. Monitor for signs of copper toxicity (neurological symptoms, liver dysfunction) with extended use.
Possible with improper injection technique or repeated injections at identical sites. Preventable with proper site rotation. Peptide itself is not lipotoxic when properly administered.
GHK-Cu promotes hair follicle growth; may stimulate growth in unexpected areas with systemic use. Effects typically reverse upon discontinuation.
Dosing Reference
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Dose range | 1-3 mg (injectable) or 1-3% (topical) |
Frequency, timing and route - members only | |
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 | approximately 404 Da |
| Half-life | Estimated 1-2 hours for free peptide; longer when complexed with copper and in tissue distribution |
| Sequence | Members only |
GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring copper-peptide complex that functions as a signaling molecule and antioxidant to stimulate collagen synthesis, enhance elastin production, and promote tissue remodeling. It works by activating growth factor pathways and improving wound healing through multiple cellular mechanisms including angiogenesis (blood vessel formation) and dermal remodeling.
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Recent Research
Safety and Efficacy of Approved and Unapproved Peptide Therapies for Musculoskeletal Injuries and Athletic Performance.
An injectable hydroxyapatite microsphere filler loaded with GHK-Cu tripeptide for anti-Inflammatory and antioxidant.
Exploring the beneficial effects of GHK-Cu on an experimental model of colitis and the underlying mechanisms.
Source: PubMed / NCBI. Updated daily. Articles are listed for research reference only.
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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-Cu 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.