GHK-Cu | Peptide Research Hub

At a Glance

GHK-Cu (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine:copper(II)) is a naturally occurring tripeptide that binds copper ions with high affinity. It was first identified in human plasma and decreases with age. GHK-Cu is widely used in cosmetic formulations and has been studied for wound healing, anti-aging, and hair growth applications.

Unlike most peptides on this site, GHK-Cu has a substantial history in topical cosmetic use.

⚠️ Research Context: While GHK-Cu is used in cosmetics, injectable forms are not FDA-approved for any indication. Most evidence comes from in vitro and small clinical studies.

Mechanism of Action

GHK-Cu’s effects are multifaceted:

Collagen & Matrix Remodeling

Stimulates collagen I and III synthesis
Promotes glycosaminoglycan production
Modulates matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) activity
Supports extracellular matrix integrity

Growth Factor Modulation

Upregulates VEGF and FGF
Promotes angiogenesis in wound beds
Enhances nerve growth factor production

Antioxidant Activity

Copper delivery supports superoxide dismutase (SOD)
May reduce oxidative stress markers
Protects cells from UV-induced damage

Gene Expression

Studies suggest regulation of 4,000+ genes
Anti-inflammatory gene activation
DNA repair pathway upregulation

Evidence Summary

Wound Healing (Human Studies)

Moderate Confidence RCT >10 Years

Several small clinical studies have examined GHK-Cu in wound healing:

Accelerated wound closure in post-surgical patients
Improved healing of diabetic ulcers in pilot studies
Enhanced re-epithelialization rates

Limitations: Small sample sizes (typically <50 patients); older studies; variable formulations.

Skin Aging (Cosmetic Studies)

Moderate Confidence RCT 3-10 Years

Topical GHK-Cu creams have shown:

Improved skin elasticity and firmness
Reduced fine lines and wrinkle depth
Enhanced skin density on ultrasound measurement
Comparable to vitamin C and retinoic acid in some metrics

Hair Growth

Low Confidence Observational 3-10 Years

In vitro and small human studies suggest:

Enlarged hair follicle size
Extended anagen (growth) phase
Used in some topical hair loss treatments

Safety & Unknowns

Topical Use

Generally well-tolerated in cosmetic products
Rare contact dermatitis reported
Copper allergies are uncommon but possible

Injectable/Systemic Use

Limited safety data: Most research is topical
Copper toxicity: Theoretical concern with excessive systemic use
Immunogenicity: Unknown for injectable formats

Regulatory Status

Region	Status
FDA	Cosmetic ingredient (topical); injectable not approved
EMA	Cosmetic ingredient
WADA	Not prohibited

Key Studies

Year	Type	Finding
1988	In vitro	Identified collagen-stimulating effects
1998	RCT	Improved wound healing post-surgery
2009	RCT	Facial anti-aging effects (topical cream)
2020	Review	Comprehensive gene expression analysis

Matrixyl (Palmitoyl Pentapeptide): Collagen-stimulating cosmetic peptide
BPC-157: Tissue repair peptide (different mechanism)
Retinoids: Vitamin A derivatives for skin aging

Changelog

Date	Change
2026-01-21	Initial dossier created