A naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide whose plasma level declines with age. Extensively studied in skin biology for remodeling, and in topical cosmetic formulations.
Mechanism under study
GHK-Cu is studied for stimulating collagen and glycosaminoglycan synthesis, modulating the expression of a broad set of human genes, and supporting wound remodeling and antioxidant activity.
Research-reported dosing
Topical cosmetic formulations commonly use 0.05–2%. Reconstituted research protocols commonly reference 1–2 mg per subcutaneous injection, daily or every other day in 4–8 week cycles (the solution appears faintly blue-green). Copper load is a research consideration, and human injectable dosing is not formally established.
Based on a standard 50 mg vial: with 2 mL bacteriostatic water = 25,000 mcg/mL (25 mg/mL); 1 unit ≈ 250 mcg.
A 1 mg dose ≈ 4 units (250 mcg per unit).
Open this mix in the calculator →Source research-grade GHK-Cu ↗Dosing figures describe how this compound appears in the research literature and research-community references. They are not a recommendation for human use.
GHK-Cu FAQ
What is GHK-Cu?
A naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide whose plasma level declines with age. Extensively studied in skin biology for remodeling, and in topical cosmetic formulations.
What is the half-life of GHK-Cu?
Short systemically; most human evidence is topical rather than injectable.
What is the research-reported dosing for GHK-Cu?
Topical cosmetic formulations commonly use 0.05–2%. Reconstituted research protocols commonly reference 1–2 mg per subcutaneous injection, daily or every other day in 4–8 week cycles (the solution appears faintly blue-green). Copper load is a research consideration, and human injectable dosing is not formally established.
How is GHK-Cu reconstituted?
Based on a standard 50 mg vial: with 2 mL bacteriostatic water = 25,000 mcg/mL (25 mg/mL); 1 unit ≈ 250 mcg.
Is GHK-Cu FDA-approved?
No — GHK-Cu is not FDA-approved and is sold for laboratory research use only.
References
Guides featuring GHK-Cu
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