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GHK-Cu: the complete guide

GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide with well-studied effects on collagen synthesis, wound healing, and hair follicle stimulation. Widely used topically; injectable use is research-only.

Written by Peptide Protocol Editorial Medically reviewed per our review process Last reviewed
ClassCopper-binding tripeptide
Half-lifeApproximately 0.5–1 hour systemically
Typical dose1–3 mg per injection; topical concentrations vary
CategorySkin / connective tissue
Research useSkin health, hair follicle research, connective tissue
FDA statusUsed in cosmetic formulations (topical). Not FDA approved as an injectable drug.

How GHK-Cu works

GHK-Cu delivers copper ions intracellularly and modulates gene expression related to tissue remodeling, anti-inflammation, and antioxidant defense.

Typical GHK-Cu dosage

Commonly reported research ranges: 1–3 mg per injection; topical concentrations vary.

Dose should always be individualized. Factors that influence it include bodyweight, research goal, tolerance, and specific compound batch. The information below is educational, not a prescription.

How to reconstitute GHK-Cu

A widely used reconstitution for a 50 mg vial is 5 ml of bacteriostatic water. With a typical 2000 mcg dose this works out to the unit count shown in the calculator below.

Open the GHK-Cu reconstitution calculator →

Pre-filled with the common 50 mg + 5 ml ratio. Adjust for your own vial.

Half-life and administration frequency

Approximately 0.5–1 hour systemically.

This half-life informs how often GHK-Cu is typically dosed. Shorter half-lives usually mean more frequent dosing to maintain plasma levels; longer half-lives allow daily, weekly, or less-frequent administration depending on the compound.

Reported side effects

This list reflects effects reported in available literature or user logs. It is not exhaustive. Adverse reactions should be discussed with a qualified clinician.

Common GHK-Cu stacks

Full editorial stack guides featuring GHK-Cu:

BPC-157 + GHK-Cu

Post-surgical scars, skin quality, hair density, low-grade chronic inflammation.

SkinConnective tissue

Storage and handling

Lyophilized refrigerated. Reconstituted: refrigerated, use within 28 days.

FDA and regulatory status

Used in cosmetic formulations (topical). Not FDA approved as an injectable drug.

GHK-Cu clinical trials and evidence

For clinical-trial and primary-literature context, start with the sources below. We prioritize official drug labels, ClinicalTrials.gov records, and PubMed-indexed literature when available.

Track your GHK-Cu protocol on iPhone

Peptide Protocol logs every dose, calculates reconstitution for you, and keeps your full protocol on one calm screen.

See the app →

Frequently asked questions

What is GHK-Cu?

GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide with well-studied effects on collagen synthesis, wound healing, and hair follicle stimulation. Widely used topically; injectable use is research-only.

How does GHK-Cu work?

GHK-Cu delivers copper ions intracellularly and modulates gene expression related to tissue remodeling, anti-inflammation, and antioxidant defense.

What is a typical GHK-Cu dose?

Commonly reported ranges are 1–3 mg per injection; topical concentrations vary. This is research information, not a recommendation — dosing should be individualized under clinical guidance.

What is the half-life of GHK-Cu?

Approximately 0.5–1 hour systemically. This influences how often it is administered.

How do you reconstitute GHK-Cu?

A common approach is to add 5 ml of bacteriostatic water to a 50 mg vial. Use the reconstitution calculator for exact unit counts.

What are the side effects of GHK-Cu?

Rare topical sensitivity; Injection-site irritation (injectable research).

Is GHK-Cu FDA approved?

Used in cosmetic formulations (topical). Not FDA approved as an injectable drug.

Are there clinical trials for GHK-Cu?

Registered or published clinical-trial sources for GHK-Cu are listed in the references section below. Evidence depth varies widely by compound, so check the cited trial registries and primary literature before relying on any claim.

References

  1. GHK-Cu literature (PubMed) — National Library of Medicine. Primary studies on GHK-Cu activity in skin, wound healing, and gene-expression
  2. Pickart & Margolina — The human tri-peptide GHK and tissue remodeling — PubMed. Reviews from the research group that characterized GHK biology
  3. GHK-Cu clinical trial records — ClinicalTrials.gov. Registered human studies, mostly topical cosmeceutical applications

Sources listed above were used to verify the claims on this page. See our editorial policy for how we source information.

Educational use only. Peptide Protocol is an informational tool. Nothing on this page constitutes medical advice. Many peptides are prescription-only or restricted in your jurisdiction. Always consult a licensed healthcare professional before injecting any compound.