What is GHK-Cu?
GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring tripeptide (Glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine) with high affinity for copper(II). It has been studied for over four decades for its roles in wound healing, anti-fibrotic signaling, hair-follicle stimulation, and gene-expression modulation.
Mechanism of action
GHK-Cu modulates the expression of thousands of human genes related to tissue remodeling, inflammation, and antioxidant defenses. It also acts as a copper carrier, supporting collagen synthesis and lysyl oxidase activity.
Researched benefits
- Improved skin firmness and reduced wrinkle depth in clinical work
- Hair follicle stimulation and reduced hair loss
- Wound and ulcer healing
- Anti-inflammatory gene-expression changes
Researched dosage
Most research protocols use 1000–2000 mcg administered 1× per day via subcutaneous injection. GHK-Cu is most commonly studied topically. Injectable research protocols typically use 1–2 mg subcutaneously per administration.
A typical cycle runs 8 weeks on, then 4 weeks off before reassessment.
Use the calculator below to convert your target GHK-Cu dose into exact insulin-syringe units.
Reconstitution & storage
A standard 50 mg vial reconstituted with 5 mL of bacteriostatic water yields 10000 mcg/mL. Sensitive to light. Store lyophilized vials at 2–8°C in dark conditions; refrigerate reconstituted solution.
Side effects & considerations
- Injection-site irritation
- Skin sensitivity to copper in rare cases
- Mild flushing
GHK-Cu stacks
- Skin & Recovery — paired with BPC-157. Layered tissue and skin regeneration. Pair GHK-Cu (collagen + gene expression) with BPC-157 (angiogenesis + soft tissue) in regeneration-focused research.
Selected research
- GHK Peptide as a Natural Modulator of Multiple Cellular Pathways — BioMed Research International, 2015
- GHK-Cu effects on wound healing — FASEB Journal, 1988