Tissue research
GHK-Cu
Also known as Copper tripeptide-1
Not an approved medicine; used in cosmetic products
In simple words: A copper-carrying peptide found naturally in your blood, best known as a skin-care ingredient.
How it works
In lab studies it helps cells make collagen and elastin and switches on genes linked to tissue repair.
Targets: Extracellular matrix signalling (reported) · Class: Copper-binding tripeptide complex
Uses, latest studies & pairings
Typically used for
- Skin care: serums and creams for firmness, fine lines and repair (the best-supported use).
- Hair products for thinning hair.
- Injected versions are sold by clinics and online, but injection is unstudied and unapproved.
Commonly paired with
- In vendor blends with BPC-157 and TB-500 (GLOW) and with KPV (KLOW). The blends have never been studied.
- In skin care, often used with moisturizer and sunscreen. Some dermatologists suggest not applying it at the same time as strong acids or vitamin C serums.
Latest studies & news
- Jul 2026
The FDA's compounding advisory committee did not vote on GHK-Cu. Injectable GHK-Cu is on the list for a later meeting, expected by early 2027.
Source: Mintz: what the FDA advisory committee peptide votes do and don't mean (July 2026)
What the research shows
Human clinical evidence
Human- Small studies of creams and serums report improvements in skin firmness and fine lines; these are topical cosmetic studies, not injections.
Laboratory / in-vitro
In-vitro- Cell and tissue studies show increased collagen production and wound-healing activity.
Animal and lab results suggest what might happen; they don't prove an effect in people.
Safety & what to watch
- Topical use is generally well tolerated.
- Injectable use is not approved and has not been properly studied. Its blood-vessel-growth effect is a theoretical concern in people with cancer.
Amounts
No dose is given for unapproved substances. If you are considering it, discuss it with a licensed clinician who knows your history and bloodwork.
📦 My peptide supply kit
The supplies I use, in one Amazon list. Only use them for medicines your clinician prescribes. Never share or reuse needles, and put used ones in a sharps container.
Studies & references
Draft profile pending editorial review. Educational only, not medical advice. Never start, stop or change a medicine without your prescriber.