Supplement Scholar
Skin & Anti-Aging

GHK-Cu

Research compound. This is not a dietary supplement. Unless it is identified as an approved prescription drug, it is not approved by the FDA for human use. This page summarizes published research for education only; we do not sell it or link to sellers.

GHK-Cu. A naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide studied for skin remodeling, hair growth, and wound healing.

How it works. Modulates expression of genes involved in collagen, elastin, and antioxidant production; delivers copper to enzymes that build skin matrix.

What the research supports. 3 graded claims. Strongest: Improved skin firmness and texture with topical use (preclinical).

Hormonal impact. Effects on Cortisol (skin), TGF-β, DHT (scalp), Systemic endocrine axes.

Side effects and interactions. 1 medication interaction listed. Serious: Excess copper exposure if dosed too aggressively.

Stacking. Pairs well with Vitamin C serum, Hyaluronic acid. Avoid combining with Wilson's disease.

Common forms. Available as Topical serum or cream, Subcutaneous injection, Scalp lotion.

Community. Experiences from people who have tried GHK-Cu. Anecdotes are not medical advice.

GHK-Cu. A naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide studied for skin remodeling, hair growth, and wound healing.

3-residue chainC14H21CuN6O4- · 400.90 g/mol

What it is

GHK is a small tripeptide (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine) that binds copper ions; the complex influences gene expression in skin and connective tissue.

Also called

Copper Tripeptide-1

How it works

Modulates expression of genes involved in collagen, elastin, and antioxidant production; delivers copper to enzymes that build skin matrix.

Pathways

  • Collagen and elastin synthesis
  • Antioxidant gene expression
  • Hair follicle proliferation
  • DNA repair gene upregulation

Effects

  • ↑Collagen and elastin production increases
  • +Hair follicle activity supports
  • ↓Visible signs of photoaging decreases

What the research supports

Improved skin firmness and texture with topical usepreclinical
May support hair density when applied to the scalppreclinical
Faster post-procedure (laser/microneedling) recoverypreclinical

Strong: consistent results across large trials or meta-analyses. Moderate: several trials, mostly positive. Limited: small or mixed studies. Preclinical: animal or cell research only.

Hormonal impact

↓Cortisol (skin)decreases
~TGF-βmodulates
↓DHT (scalp)decreases
=Systemic endocrine axesstabilizes

Side effects & interactions

Common side effects

  • Mild redness at application site

Serious

  • Excess copper exposure if dosed too aggressively

Medication interactions

Retinoidsminor

Combine cautiously — can amplify irritation.

Check any supplement–medication combination with your pharmacist before starting.

Combines with

Pairs well

  • Vitamin C serumComplementary collagen synthesis support.
  • Hyaluronic acidLayering supports hydration and barrier function.

Avoid combining

  • Wilson's diseaseCopper accumulation is contraindicated.

Common forms

  • Topical serum or cream
  • Subcutaneous injection
  • Scalp lotion

Discussion

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