GHK-Cu
In clinical studies of topical use, wrinkle depth decreased and skin elasticity improved.
What it does in the body
Findings, each with its evidence level — animal data kept visibly apart from what's unproven in humans.
In clinical studies of topical use, wrinkle depth decreased and skin elasticity improved.
PROVEN IN HUMANSBoosts collagen production in lab and animal models and acts as an antioxidant.
ANIMAL MODELS ONLYDelivers copper and activates growth factors that are linked to faster skin healing.
MECHANISM ONLYAlmost all the evidence comes from topical (cream) use; there is little human data on injected, systemic use.
UNPROVEN IN HUMANSMechanism of action
What GHK-Cu does in the body — step by step.
GHK-Cu (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine with a copper(II) complex) is a naturally occurring tripeptide detected in human plasma, saliva and urine.
It binds copper ions and transports them into tissue.
In vitro and in preclinical models, effects on collagen synthesis, antioxidant enzyme activity and the expression of growth factors (including VEGF, FGF) have been described.
Research status
How far along is the evidence?
Known risks
Without human data, safety statements are limited. What is known:
Cited studies
Chronological — links lead to the source.
Frequently asked questions
What is GHK-Cu?+
GHK-Cu (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine with a copper(II) complex) is a naturally occurring tripeptide detected in human plasma, saliva and urine.
What type of peptide is GHK-Cu?+
GHK-Cu belongs to the Copper peptide class.
What is GHK-Cu used for?+
In research, GHK-Cu has primarily been investigated in the context of: Skin & hair, Anti-aging, Recovery. These are research findings (evidence: early clinical studies), not proven benefits in humans and not a usage recommendation.
Is GHK-Cu legal in Germany?+
The regulatory status of GHK-Cu in Germany is not clearly classified.
Is GHK-Cu FDA-approved / legal in the US?+
The FDA status of GHK-Cu is not clearly classified.
Is GHK-Cu legal in Canada?+
The regulatory status of GHK-Cu in Canada is not clearly classified.
Where can I buy GHK-Cu?+
Peptica sells nothing and names no sources. GHK-Cu is "unclassified" in Germany; obtaining unapproved substances outside clinical studies is illegal and carries quality and safety risks.
What is the dosage of GHK-Cu?+
Peptica publishes no dosing. There are no approved dosing guidelines for GHK-Cu; figures circulating online stem from animal studies or anecdote, not from validated human protocols. This is not medical advice.
Is GHK-Cu banned in sport (WADA)?+
GHK-Cu is currently not on the WADA Prohibited List.
What are the known risks of GHK-Cu?+
Documented risks include: Topical use: generally well tolerated; contact-allergic reactions described in isolated cases; Copper accumulation theoretically possible with systemic (non-cosmetic) use. This is not a complete safety assessment and not medical advice — see the risks section for the full list.
How well researched is GHK-Cu?+
The evidence is classified as “early clinical studies”. 3 studies are cited on this page.
What is the molecular weight of GHK-Cu?+
GHK-Cu has a molar mass of about 400.9 Da.
Which peptides are related to GHK-Cu?+
Closely related entries: LL-37, SNAP-8, AHK-Cu. A direct side-by-side comparison is available via the compare function.
Dossier
Legal · Structure · Sources.
GHK-Cu (Copper Tripeptide-1) is approved as a cosmetic ingredient in the EU and is freely available in cosmetics. It is not approved as a medicine. Cosmetic use is legal; systemic or injectable use as an unapproved medicine is not legal. No WADA ban, no DmMV relevance. This entry refers to topical cosmetic applications.
Legal status varies by country and can change. This is not legal advice.
Methodology: Peptica compiles publicly available studies and regulatory information and assigns each statement an evidence level. Not medical advice. No warranty.