GHK-Cu

A naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide, studied most extensively in skin research, with additional preclinical data on other tissues.

GHK-Cu is a three-amino-acid tripeptide that occurs naturally in the body and stably binds a copper ion. It is studied mainly in cosmetic and dermatological research on collagen formation and skin renewal. Further, mostly preclinical research looks at possible effects on inflammatory processes and gene expression across various tissue models.

Facts

• CAS number: 89030-95-5
• Molecular weight: 402.92 g/mol
• Amino acids: 3
• Purity specification: ≥ 98 % (HPLC, commercial standard, blue powder)

Evidence

• A twelve-week application study in women with visible signs of skin aging described increased skin thickness, reduced wrinkle depth, and a biopsy-confirmed increase in skin cell activity under a GHK-Cu cream, compared with baseline. Finkley et al. 2005, in: Cosmeceuticals and Active Cosmetics: Drugs vs. Cosmetics
• A study in a mouse model of ulcerative colitis described GHK-Cu supporting intestinal barrier function via the SIRT1/STAT3 pathway and reducing inflammatory messengers. Mao et al. 2025, Frontiers in Pharmacology, PMID 40672369

Frequently asked questions

Is GHK-Cu approved in cosmetics?
In the United States, copper tripeptide-1 is listed as a cosmetic ingredient. The EU has no comparable standalone approval, though cosmetic products are widely sold.

Where is the strongest evidence for GHK-Cu?
The most robust human data come from topical skin studies. Systemic, injected use relies mostly on preclinical animal and cell models.

Is the copper in GHK-Cu a safety risk?
At typical cosmetic concentrations this is not described as a relevant risk. The literature considers copper deficiency more likely than overload.

Documented prices

List prices excluding shipping and discounts. Currency and product variants must be compared separately. Availability and delivered batch have not been verified.