Peptide Library / Skin & Longevity
GHK-Cu
Also known as: Copper peptide, GHK-copper complex
A naturally occurring copper-binding peptide studied for skin quality, hair, wound healing, and tissue remodeling — the cosmetic-longevity workhorse.
| Typical research dose | 1–2 mg daily (injectable) or topical application |
|---|---|
| Frequency | Daily, often 5 days on / 2 off |
| Route | Subcutaneous injection or topical |
| Cycle length | 4–8 weeks |
Figures reflect protocols commonly reported in the research community — not a prescription or a recommendation.
What it is
GHK-Cu is a three-amino-acid peptide bound to a copper ion. It occurs naturally in human plasma, saliva, and urine — and its levels fall sharply with age (roughly 60% lower by age 60 than at 20), which is why it attracts so much longevity and skin-aging research.
What the research looks at
- Skin remodeling — the best-supported area: increased collagen and elastin production, improved skin density and firmness in topical human studies.
- Wound healing — accelerated closure and reduced scarring in animal and some human wound models.
- Hair — follicle stimulation research (copper peptides appear in commercial hair products for this reason).
- Gene expression — in-vitro work shows GHK resetting expression of a large number of genes toward a "younger" profile; interpret with appropriate caution.
How protocols are commonly structured
Injectable research protocols typically run 1–2 mg per day subcutaneously, often on a 5-days-on / 2-off rhythm, for 4–8 weeks. Topical use (creams/serums) is the route with actual human cosmetic data. Injection-site skin benefit is a commonly reported motivation for choosing injectable over topical.
GHK-Cu also appears in multi-compound blend vials alongside repair peptides (e.g. GHK-Cu + BPC-157 + TB-500 combinations marketed for skin-plus-recovery) — the Skin & Longevity stack covers how those are used.
Reconstitution & storage
Lyophilized powder with a distinctive blue tint (the copper). Reconstitute with bacteriostatic water (calculator); refrigerate after mixing. The blue color is normal and expected — a colorless GHK-Cu solution is a red flag.
Research protocols, not a prescription — talk to a physician before touching anything.