WhatPeptide

GHK-Cu

A naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide widely studied in skin and hair biology and extracellular matrix remodeling. Note: FDA Category 2 applies to injectable routes only. Non-injectable administration (topical, nasal, oral) remains Category 1 (permitted for compounding).

Moderate evidence FDA Category 2 Cosmetic

Written by WhatPeptide Editorial Team · Last updated 2026-03-17

FDA Category 2 — compounding availability may be limited.

Half-life

Short plasma half-life; local tissue kinetics vary

Dosage range

Topical 0.1-2%; injectable protocols vary

Administration

Topical

Research level

Moderate

How GHK-Cu works

GHK-Cu influences gene-expression patterns related to extracellular matrix turnover, collagen remodeling, and wound-response signaling. It also exhibits antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects in preclinical and dermatologic literature. Evidence quality varies by indication and formulation route.

Also known as: Copper peptide, Glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine-Cu

Research relevance

Hair & Skin
Strong research relevance 90
Anti-Aging & Longevity
Moderate relevance 75
Recovery & Healing
Moderate relevance 50
Injury Rehab
Some relevance 35
Immune Support
Some relevance 25
Cognition & Focus
Some relevance 20

Side effects & safety

Topical irritation Transient redness Injection-site discomfort

Contraindications

Copper metabolism disorders
Pregnancy (insufficient data)

Consult a healthcare provider before use if any of these apply to you.

Key studies

FAQ

What is GHK-Cu? +
A naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide widely studied in skin and hair biology and extracellular matrix remodeling. Note: FDA Category 2 applies to injectable routes only. Non-injectable administration (topical, nasal, oral) remains Category 1 (permitted for compounding). Its mechanism of action is supported by moderate clinical and preclinical evidence.
What is GHK-Cu researched for? +
GHK-Cu has the strongest research relevance for Hair & Skin, Anti-Aging & Longevity, Recovery & Healing. Evidence is supported by moderate clinical and preclinical evidence.
What are the side effects of GHK-Cu? +
Reported side effects include Topical irritation, Transient redness, Injection-site discomfort. Key contraindications: Copper metabolism disorders; Pregnancy (insufficient data).
Is GHK-Cu FDA approved? +
GHK-Cu is classified as FDA Category 2, meaning compounding availability may be limited.
How is GHK-Cu administered? +
GHK-Cu is typically administered via topical route. Researched dosage range: Topical 0.1-2%; injectable protocols vary. Half-life: Short plasma half-life; local tissue kinetics vary.

Explore similar peptides

AHK-Cu

Preliminary evidence

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AHK-Cu is a copper-binding tripeptide studied for its ability to stimulate hair follicle proliferation and promote wound healing through copper-dependent enzymatic pathways. It is a less widely studied relative of GHK-Cu but shares overlapping mechanisms relevant to hair and skin biology.

GHK

Moderate evidence

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GHK is the parent tripeptide that forms the copper-chelating complex GHK-Cu, studied for its own biological activities including gene expression modulation, tissue remodeling, and anti-inflammatory effects. It naturally declines with age and is found in plasma, saliva, and urine.

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