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GHK-Cu (Copper Peptide GHK-Cu (Glycyl-Histidyl-Lysine Copper))

Category: Skin & Anti-Aging. Status: Research compound.

A naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide that declines with age. Promotes collagen synthesis, wound healing, and has broad regenerative effects on skin, hair follicles, and tissues.

How it works

Copper delivery enhances antioxidant enzyme activity (SOD), stimulates collagen and glycosaminoglycan synthesis, promotes stem cell activation, and modulates gene expression.

Key facts

  • Molecular weight: 403.93 Da
  • Half-life: ~2-4 hours
  • Bioavailability: Topical: local; Injectable: ~90% subcutaneous
  • Storage: Topical: room temperature, protect from light. Injectable: 2-8°C reconstituted.

Dosing overview

  • Typical dose: 1-3 mg topical · 200-500 mcg injectable
  • Frequency: Daily (topical) · 3x/week (injectable)
  • Duration: 8-12 weeks
  • Route: Topical cream/serum or subcutaneous injection

Protocol notes

  • Skin/hair/anti-aging: a 1-3 mg/mL topical applied daily to clean skin is the most common route.
  • Systemic healing: 200-500 mcg subcutaneously ~3x weekly, often stacked with BPC-157/TB-500.

Reported benefits

  • Collagen and elastin synthesis
  • Wound healing acceleration
  • Skin tightening and remodeling
  • Hair follicle stimulation
  • Antioxidant protection

Possible side effects

  • Skin irritation (topical)
  • Injection site bruising
  • Temporary redness

Research

  • GHK-Cu gene expression modulation (2020): Identified modulation of 4,000+ genes involved in tissue repair, anti-inflammation, and anti-cancer pathways.
  • Copper peptides in skin rejuvenation (2019): Demonstrated significant improvement in skin laxity, clarity, and fine line reduction over 12 weeks.

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Research and educational reference only. Not medical advice.