GHK-Cu
The copper peptide
Copper-Binding Peptide
Evidence Level: Moderate Evidence
Some human data, strong animal studies, plausible mechanism
Regulatory Status: Available as cosmetic ingredient. Injectable forms are research chemicals.
GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring peptide in your body—it's found in blood plasma, saliva, and urine. Discovered in the 1970s, it binds to copper and has remarkable effects on tissue repair, collagen production, and gene expression. It's popular both as a topical skincare ingredient and as an injectable peptide in the biohacking community.
How It Works
Collagen & elastin: Stimulates production of the proteins that keep skin firm and elastic.
Anti-inflammatory: Reduces chronic inflammation associated with aging.
Antioxidant: Helps protect against oxidative damage.
Wound healing: Attracts immune cells and stimulates tissue repair.
Gene expression: Affects over 4,000 genes, generally "resetting" cells toward a younger state.
Levels of GHK-Cu decline significantly with age—you have about 60% less at age 60 than at age 20.
Potential Benefits
- Topical: Proven to reduce wrinkles and improve skin elasticity
- Stimulates collagen and elastin production
- May promote hair growth and thickening
- Anti-inflammatory effects on skin
- Accelerates wound healing
- Available as topical (low risk) and injectable (higher risk, stronger effects)
Risks & Considerations
- Topical: Generally very safe, occasional irritation
- Injectable: Research chemical, not FDA approved
- Copper toxicity possible with excessive systemic use
- May need to monitor copper/zinc balance
- Quality varies widely between sources
- Injectable long-term effects unknown
Dosing Information
GHK-Cu is used both topically (creams/serums) and via injection. Topical is well-established; injectable is experimental.
- •Topical: 1-3% concentration, 1-2x daily
- •Injectable (research): 1-2mg subcutaneous, several times per week
- •Topical is the safe, proven approach
- •Injectable should only be considered by those accepting research-grade risk
- •Some use microneedling to enhance topical penetration
Practical Tips
- 1For skincare, look for products with at least 1% GHK-Cu
- 2Can be combined with retinol (alternate nights) for anti-aging
- 3Results take 8-12 weeks to become visible
- 4For hair, apply to scalp with microneedling for best absorption
- 5If injecting, rotate sites and monitor for skin changes
- 6Copper competes with zinc—consider zinc supplementation if using systemically
Key Research
Facial study (2009)
Journal of Aging Science
GHK-Cu cream significantly reduced wrinkles and improved skin density vs placebo.
Gene expression study
FASEB Journal
GHK-Cu was found to affect 32% of human genes, generally shifting expression toward a younger pattern.
Related Goals
Related Treatments
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before starting any treatment. Evidence levels and regulatory status can change—this content was last updated November 2024.