GHK-Cu
aka Copper Peptide · Copper Tripeptide-1
GHK-Cu in brief
GHK-Cu (Copper Peptide) is a naturally occurring copper complex of glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine with roles in wound healing and tissue remodeling. Amino Axiom rates its evidence base strong, drawing on 64 PubMed results (28 human studies) and 2 registered trials listed below. Its reported half-life is 30-60 minutes. It is filed under Healing & Recovery in the Amino Axiom compound index.
Research data
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Long-form breakdowns
6 videosShort-form clips
3 clipsFull Research Data
Overview
GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring copper complex of the tripeptide glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine. Found in human plasma, it has been shown to have various effects on gene expression related to tissue repair, remodeling, and anti-inflammatory processes. It is used in cosmetic and wound healing applications.
PubMed results: 64 · Human studies: 28 · Animal studies: 38
Dosing Ranges
Ranges reflect protocols studied in published research and animal-model extrapolation. Presented for research purposes only, not a recommendation or instruction for human use.
Based on topical and limited systemic studies
- Topical — standard range 0.5-2% solution, Once or twice daily
Half-Life
30-60 minutes (low confidence)
Observed Benefits
- Wound healing (Human clinical data): Demonstrated effects on wound healing and tissue remodeling
Side Effects
- Local skin irritation or mild erythema — Mild, Uncommon. Topical and wound-research applications of GHK-Cu have occasionally been associated with mild local irritation or transient erythema; systemic adverse rates in published literature are generally low
- Copper-related sensitivity (rare theoretical) — Mild, Rare. As a copper–tripeptide complex, research contexts note theoretical sensitivity in individuals with copper intolerance, though documented serious reactions in cosmetic and wound-healing literature remain uncommon
Contraindications
- Wilson disease or disorders of copper overload (Theoretical / Preclinical): Because GHK-Cu delivers bioavailable copper in complexed form, research frameworks typically exclude populations with impaired copper handling or established copper overload disorders
- Known hypersensitivity to copper peptide complexes (Clinical): Documented allergy or hypersensitivity to copper peptide formulations is a standard exclusion in cosmetic and dermatologic research protocols
Storage
Lyophilized (powder): Refrigerated (2-8°C), Up to 24 months. Light sensitive: yes, store dark
Reconstituted (solution): Refrigerated (2-8°C), 4-6 weeks. Solvent: Bacteriostatic water
Clinical Trials
- NCT07437586 — Topical GHK-Cu Gel for Acute Skin Wound Healing (PHASE2), status: RECRUITING. Indications: Acute Standardized Cutaneous Wounds (Punch-biopsy Wounds)
- NCT05932732 — Trial Assessing the Impact on Facial Skin Quality, Hydration, and Skin Barrier of Three (3) Hydrafacial Treatments in Adults of All Skin Types. (PHASE4), status: COMPLETED. Indications: Cutis Laxa Facialis, Xeroderma
Amino Acid Sequence
Gly-His-Lys-Cu