Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu)

Peptides

Supports skin repair, collagen production, and hair growth.

Part of Peptides amino acid
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Typical dose

Topical: 1-10 ppm in serums/creams applied 1-2 t...

Oral & topical Oral safety: very low Skin safety: harmless

About this supplement

Copper Tripeptide-1, also known as GHK-Cu, is a naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide complex consisting of the amino acids glycine, histidine, and lysine chelated with a copper ion (Cu²⁺). It is a bioactive signaling peptide found in human plasma, saliva, and urine, with levels declining significantly with age. GHK-Cu plays a crucial role in tissue repair, wound healing, and anti-inflammatory processes by modulating gene expression, promoting collagen and elastin synthesis, attracting immune cells, and acting as an antioxidant. In cosmetic and supplement applications, it is valued for its skin-rejuvenating, anti-aging, and hair growth-promoting properties.

How much to take

Typical amount
Topical: 1-10 ppm in serums/creams applied 1-2 times daily. Oral/Injectable: Less common; research doses vary widely (e.g., 1-10 mg daily).
Suggested range
Topical: 0.1-10 mg per 100g product (0.0001%-0.01%). Oral: Not well-established; research doses range from 1-50 mg daily.

Potential benefits

Benefits linked to this supplement form:

Skin Rejuvenation & Anti-Aging

Research strength: Strong

 Wound Healing & Tissue Repair

Research strength: Strong

 Anti-Inflammatory & Antioxidant

Research strength: Moderate

 Hair Growth Stimulation

Research strength: Moderate

Things to watch for

Possible side effects linked to this form:

Skin Irritation

How serious: Mild

 Copper Overload (Rare)

How serious: medium

Health goals

Needs and goals this form may help with:

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Broad term for short amino acid chains; function varies by specific sequence.
Peptides (unspecified)

Broad category; specific peptide identity required for precise benefits.
Peptides (unspecified)

Broad-spectrum peptide blend; source and sequence not specified.
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Technical details ▼

Chemical ID (CAS)

130120-57-9

Physical properties

Typically appears as a blue to blue-green powder or crystalline solid. Soluble in water and aqueous solutions. The copper ion gives it a characteristic blue color.

How it’s made

Produced synthetically via solid-phase peptide synthesis (SPPS) of the Gly-His-Lys tripeptide sequence, followed by chelation with copper (II) ions (e.g., copper chloride) under controlled pH conditions. The final product is purified, isolated, and lyophilized.