GHK-Cu
Also known as: Copper Peptide, GHK-Copper, Glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine-Cu
GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide (Glycyl-Histidyl-Lysine) found in human plasma, saliva, and urine. Levels decline significantly with age — from ~200 ng/mL at age 20 to ~80 ng/mL by age 60. It is renowned for its skin rejuvenation, hair growth, and wound healing properties, and has been shown to activate over 4,000 genes related to repair and regeneration.
Research Use Only
Pricing
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Credit card accepted · For research & educational use only — not for human consumption.
Half-Life
~0.5–1 hour (but biological effects last much longer)
Common Dose
1.5–2 mg per day (~10–12 units on a U-100 syringe)
Route
Subcutaneous injection (rotate sites — belly
Frequency
Once daily — many do daily for consistent skin/collagen effects
Mechanism of Action
GHK-Cu shuttles copper into cells, where it acts as a cofactor for enzymes involved in collagen synthesis, antioxidant defense (SOD), and DNA repair. It activates 4,000+ genes related to tissue remodeling, wound healing, antioxidant defense, anti-inflammatory pathways, and stem cell function. It also reduces inflammatory cytokines and stimulates dermal fibroblasts to produce collagen, elastin, and glycosaminoglycans.
Reported Benefits
- ✦Skin rejuvenation, smoothness, and elasticity
- ✦Hair growth and reduced hair loss
- ✦Wound healing and scar reduction
- ✦Strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects
- ✦Stimulates collagen and elastin production
- ✦Anti-aging gene expression
- ✦Potential neuroprotective and cognitive benefits
- ✦Bone and cartilage support
Side Effects
- !Injection site stinging, redness, or itching (very common — histamine response)
- !Mild dizziness (transient)
- !Skin discoloration at injection site (temporary)
Dosage Protocol
Notes
Available in 50 mg and 100 mg vials. 50 mg vial reconstituted with 3 mL bac water → ~16.67 mg/mL: 1 unit = 0.167 mg (10–12 units daily ≈ 1.67–2 mg). 100 mg vial with 3 mL bac water → ~33.3 mg/mL: 1 unit = 0.333 mg (5–6 units daily ≈ 1.67–2 mg). GHK-Cu commonly causes temporary stinging, redness, or itching at the injection site — inject slowly and rotate sites. Cycle 4–8 weeks (some go 6–12 weeks for visible skin changes), then 2–4 weeks off.
Research Status
Extensive research over 40+ years, especially in dermatology and wound healing.
Contraindications
- ✕Wilson's disease (copper accumulation disorder)
- ✕Active malignancy (theoretical concern)
- ✕Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- ✕Known copper or peptide hypersensitivity
Storage
Lyophilized: refrigerate. Reconstituted: refrigerate, use within 30 days. Protect from light.
Legal Status
Research chemical (injectable). Topical forms widely available in cosmetics.
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