Educational information only. Not medical advice. Talk to a qualified healthcare professional before using any compound. Disclaimer

Skin & Hair

GHK-Cu

Also known as Copper peptide, Copper tripeptide-1, Gly-His-Lys-Cu

Moderate human evidenceCosmetic or supplement

Price range: €64 through €100

Discussed for: Collagen, wound healing, hair growth.

FIG. 2 ยท Amino-acid sequence of GHK-Cu (3 residues)
  1. G
  2. H
  3. K
  • Hydrophobic
  • Polar
  • Positive charge
  • Negative charge
  • Glycine / proline
Effect strengthHow hard it acts on the body4/10
Proof levelHow well that is shown in humans5/10
Risk levelHow much can go wrong2/10

Editorial 1 to 10 estimates from published research, not measured values. How to read these

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01 / Identity

What it is

GHK-Cu is a natural tripeptide + copper. Main reported uses: collagen, wound healing, hair growth. Current status: cosmetic ingredient (topical); injection not approved.

Molecule type
Natural tripeptide + copper
How it is taken
Topical cream/serum, injection
Other names
Copper peptide, Copper tripeptide-1, Gly-His-Lys-Cu

Route only. This library does not publish doses or protocols.

02 / Mechanism

How it is thought to work

Boosts collagen and elastin, wound repair, hair follicle activity

03 / Potential benefits

What people use it for

Collagen, wound healing, hair growth

Moderate human evidence

Some human trials exist, but they are smaller, shorter or mixed.

Listed uses are what people use it for, not proven outcomes.

04 / Known risks

Side effects and risks

Skin irritation; injection can cause pain and copper excess

Risk level 2 of 10

Lower risk score: reported side effects are mostly mild. Low risk is not no risk, especially for unregulated products.

Unknown long-term effects count as a risk, not as a clean record.

05 / Regulatory

Regulatory status

Status
Cosmetic or supplement
Details
Cosmetic ingredient (topical); injection not approved
Sport (WADA)
Not listed

Status reflects information up to mid-2026 and changes over time. Check current sources.

06 / Evidence quality

How good is the evidence?

Moderate (topical) / Limited (injection)

How we grade evidence

07 / Notes and sources

Notes and sources

  • Talk to a pharmacist or doctor before combining supplements with medicines.
  • Source: Peptide Reference Table, an editorial review of published research up to mid-2026. Scores are 1 to 10 editorial estimates, not measured values. Regulatory and WADA status change over time.

Educational information only. Not medical advice. Talk to a qualified healthcare professional before using any compound.