GHK-Cu

GHK-Cu, also called Copper Peptide GHK-Cu, is a small, naturally occurring tripeptide composed of three amino acids: glycine, histidine, and lysine, bound to a copper ion. It is most notable for its wound healing, anti-aging, and regenerative properties. Here's a detailed breakdown:

Structure and Function.

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• Molecular structure: Glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine-Cu²⁺. The copper ion is essential for its biological activity.

• Natural occurrence: Found in plasma, saliva, and urine. Its levels tend to decline with age, which is thought to contribute to slower tissue repair and aging skin.

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Mechanism of Action-

GHK-Cu influences multiple cellular pathways:

1. Tissue Repair: It promotes the synthesis of collagen, elastin, and glycosaminoglycans, which are crucial for skin elasticity, firmness, and healing.

2. Anti-inflammatory: Modulates inflammation, reducing excessive inflammatory responses in damaged tissue.

3. Angiogenesis: Stimulates the formation of new blood vessels, improving nutrient delivery and tissue regeneration.

4. Antioxidant effects: Reduces oxidative stress and helps protect cells from free radical damage.

5. Gene regulation: Can activate and suppress specific genes related to tissue repair, inflammation, and aging. Research shows it can influence over 4,000 human genes, including those involved in wound healing, cell proliferation, and DNA repair.

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Clinical and Cosmetic Applications

• Skin and aesthetics: Commonly used in anti-aging creams and serums to reduce fine lines, wrinkles, sagging skin, and hyperpigmentation.

• Hair regrowth: Studies indicate it can stimulate hair follicle growth, potentially helping with androgenic alopecia.

• Wound healing: Topical or injectable forms accelerate healing of ulcers, burns, and post-surgical wounds.

• Medical research: Investigated for lung repair, liver regeneration, and anti-cancer potential due to its cellular repair effects.

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Forms and Administration

• Topical creams and serums: Most common for cosmetic use, generally 0.1–0.5% concentration.

• Injectables: Used in research or clinical settings for wound healing or tissue regeneration.

• Stability: Sensitive to light and oxidation; often formulated with stabilizers to preserve activity.

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Safety Profile

• Generally well-tolerated with minimal adverse effects when used topically.

• Rarely, mild irritation or redness may occur.

• Long-term systemic effects are still under investigation, though naturally occurring levels in humans suggest low toxicity.

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In summary, GHK-Cu is a versatile peptide with strong evidence for skin rejuvenation, tissue repair, and anti-inflammatory benefits, making it one of the most widely studied and applied peptides in cosmetic and regenerative medicine.

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1. Topical Use (Skin, Hair, Anti-Aging)

• Concentration: 0.1% to 0.5% GHK-Cu is standard in creams or serums.

• Application: Apply once or twice daily to clean skin. Focus on areas with wrinkles, sagging, or hair thinning.

• Duration: Visible results can take 4–12 weeks depending on skin condition and formulation.

• Note: Peptide stability is sensitive to light and air, so store products in dark, airtight containers.

 

2. Injectable Use (Wound Healing, Research, Tissue Regeneration)

• Typical concentration: 2–5 mg per mL, depending on the intended tissue site.

• Volume: Small localized injections, often 0.5–1 mL per site.

• Frequency: Every 1–3 days in clinical research; some protocols use weekly injections for skin rejuvenation.

• Note: Injectable use should be overseen by a healthcare professional experienced with peptide therapy.

 

3. Hair Regrowth

• Topical sprays or microneedling solutions use 0.2–0.5% GHK-Cu.

• Applied 2–3 times per week to the scalp; studies suggest improved follicle activity over several months.

 

Key Safety Points

• Avoid high systemic doses; topical or localized use is safest.