GHK-Cu
A copper-binding tripeptide found naturally in human plasma, studied for collagen production and skin repair.
The basics
GHK-Cu is a three-amino-acid peptide (glycine, histidine, lysine) bound to copper. It occurs naturally in your plasma, and reported levels fall with age. In cell and animal studies it stimulates collagen synthesis and wound healing, and it delivers copper, the cofactor for lysyl oxidase, the enzyme that cross-links collagen and elastin into tissue that can bear load.
We review the studies, the potential uses and benefits, and the open questions in our research post, What the Copper Peptide GHK-Cu Does for Skin Repair, and Where the Human Evidence Stops.
What the evidence looks like
Early. The human data are almost entirely topical, from cosmetic skin and wound-care studies. No randomized trial has tested injected GHK-Cu.
Why patients ask about it
- Skin quality, firmness, and elasticity
- Wound and scar healing
- Hair and connective tissue support
Good to know
- Compounded GHK-Cu is not FDA-approved.
- Injections can sting and leave temporary redness at the site.
- Not for people with Wilson disease or copper overload. Copper and zinc compete, so we consider the balance between them.
What the Copper Peptide GHK-Cu Does for Skin Repair, and Where the Human Evidence Stops
GHK-Cu is a copper-carrying tripeptide from human plasma that drives collagen production in cell culture and speeds wound healing in rats. The human evidence is almost entirely topical, and no randomized trial has tested the injection.
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