GHK-Cu: How It Works, What It's Studied For & Safety
GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide present in human plasma, studied for collagen signaling, wound healing, and skin-quality applications. Clinicians consider it for skin tone, fine-line, and post-procedure recovery research. It is not FDA-approved as a finished drug product and is dispensed by Wells Pharmacy Network only after a licensed clinician evaluates intake, history, and labs.
Also known as: Copper Tripeptide-1, Glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine copper(II)
How does GHK-Cu work?
GHK is a copper-affinity tripeptide that levels in plasma decline with age. The GHK-Cu complex is studied for upregulation of metalloproteinases involved in skin remodeling, modulation of antioxidant gene expression, and stimulation of dermal fibroblasts to produce collagen and elastin.
What is GHK-Cu studied for?
- Skin tone, fine-line, and post-procedure recovery research
- Hair-follicle support in scalp-applied protocols
- Wound-healing support in clinical research
How is GHK-Cu taken?
Most commonly applied as a topical cream or serum at clinician-directed cadence. Some compounded protocols use a subcutaneous injectable preparation.
Is GHK-Cu FDA-approved? Is it safe?
Not FDA-approved for the prevention, treatment, or cure of any condition. Used inside research-informed, clinician-directed protocols only. Topical preparations are well-tolerated in published research; copper sensitivity is rare but possible. Compounded prescription-only preparations are dispensed by Wells Pharmacy Network. Eligibility is decided by a licensed clinician based on intake and labs, not by checkout. Compounded products on this site are not FDA-approved and are not generic equivalents of any branded medication.
In the Regen Therapy catalog
This compound does not currently appear in an active Regen Therapy protocol. Browse the full catalog for adjacent options.
What does the research say about GHK-Cu?
Multiple peer-reviewed papers describe GHK-Cu's effects on dermal fibroblasts and gene expression in skin. No FDA-approved drug status.
Citations & further reading
Considering GHK-Cu as part of a protocol?
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