Peptides Academy
GHK-Cu (Copper Tripeptide-1)
Cosmetic-Grade
GHK-Cu is a tripeptide of glycine-histidine-lysine complexed to a copper(II) ion. Originally isolated from human plasma, it is one of the most studied peptides in cosmetic dermatology. Gene-expression microarray work has documented GHK-Cu-driven modulation of thousands of human genes, including suppression of fibrotic TGF-β pathways, upregulation of antioxidant defense, and coordinated stimulation of collagen, elastin, and glycosaminoglycan synthesis in fibroblasts. In topical skincare formulations (typically 0.05–0.2% free-base equivalent) GHK-Cu has demonstrated improvement in fine lines, skin firmness, photoaging damage, and wound re-epithelialization. It is also used in hair-growth formulations based on data showing enlargement of hair follicles and prolongation of the anagen phase. Unlike systemic peptides, GHK-Cu is primarily used topically and has a well-established cosmetic safety profile.
Source references
Specifications
| Dose Range | 0.05–0.2% in cosmetic formulations |
| Origin / Manufacturer | Synthetic (identical to endogenous) |
| Regulatory Status | INCI-listed |
| Active Components | Copper Tripeptide-1 |
| Storage | Topical formulations: store below 25°C, avoid sunlight |
| Form Factor | Serum, cream, hair treatment, or lyophilized powder |
Frequently Asked Questions
Sources & References
Every clinical claim on this page traces to a primary peer-reviewed source.
- 1Pickart L, Margolina A. Regenerative and Protective Actions of the GHK-Cu Peptide in the Light of the New Gene Data. International Journal of Molecular Sciences. 2018;19(7):1987. doi:10.3390/ijms19071987 PMID:29986520
- 2Pickart L. The human tri-peptide GHK and tissue remodeling. Journal of Biomaterials Science, Polymer Edition. 2008;19(8):969-88. doi:10.1163/156856208784909435 PMID:18644225
- 3Hong Y, Downey T, Eu KW, Koh PK, Cheah PY. A 'metastasis-prone' signature for early-stage mismatch-repair proficient sporadic colorectal cancer patients and its implications for possible therapeutics. Clinical & Experimental Metastasis. 2010;27(2):83-90. doi:10.1007/s10585-010-9305-4 PMID:20143136
- 4Leyden J, Stephens T, Finkey MB, Barkovic S. Skin care benefits of copper peptide containing facial cream. Annual American Academy of Dermatology Meeting. 2002.
Reviewed by
Clinical Research Review Board
Pharmacology & Endocrinology Review
All clinical claims cross-checked against primary sources. Read our editorial policy →
Consumer products featuring GHK-Cu (Copper Tripeptide-1)
All skincare →Finished serums, creams, and treatments that contain GHK-Cu (Copper Tripeptide-1). Links go to retailers; we may earn a commission.
Protini Polypeptide Cream
Drunk Elephant
Signal-peptide moisturizing cream combining pygmy waterlily stem cell extract with nine signal peptides and amino acid complexes.
$68-78
Liquid Peptides
Medik8
Medik8's flagship multi-peptide serum with Argireline, copper peptides, and a signal-peptide complex in a lightweight fluid.
$70-90
Copper Amino Isolate Serum 3:1 (CAIS2)
NIOD
Second-generation pure copper peptide concentrate from Deciem's premium skincare line — the most concentrated GHK-Cu serum in the commercial market.
$50-70
Peptide 21 Wrinkle Resist Serum
Peter Thomas Roth
Peptide-forward anti-aging serum featuring 21 peptides and neuropeptides alongside squalane and hyaluronic acid, positioned as a premium Argireline-plus alternative.
$90-105
Copper Peptide Serum
The INKEY List
Single-peptide copper serum with GHK-Cu at 2% plus hyaluronic acid, positioned as an entry-level copper peptide option.
$16-20
Buffet + Copper Peptides 1%
The Ordinary
Multi-peptide serum combining Matrixyl 3000, Argireline, SYN-AKE, Relistase, and 1% Copper Peptides (GHK-Cu) in a single formulation.
$28-32
Multi-Peptide Serum for Hair Density
The Ordinary
Scalp-applied peptide serum combining REDENSYL, PROCAPIL, CAPIXYL, and BAICAPIL peptide complexes, targeting hair follicle activity and density.
$16-20
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