GHK-Cu
Also known as Copper peptide
A natural copper-carrying peptide found in your blood. Widely used in skin creams.
Quick facts
- Status
- Not an approved medicine
- Evidence
- Limited (cosmetic studies, topical use)
- Taken as
- On the skin (creams, serums); also sold for injection
- Common sizes
- 50 mg, 100 mg
- Category
- Skin & hair
How it works
It helps skin make collagen and supports wound healing.
What people use it for
- Skin firmness and wrinkles (creams)
- Hair growth (topical)
- Wound healing
What the research shows
- Lab and cosmetic studies support use on the skin.
- Injecting it has not been studied properly.
Side effects & risks
- On the skin: irritation
- Injected: unknown safety, and too much copper can be harmful
Is it legal?
Permitted as a cosmetic ingredient for topical use. Injectable products are not approved as medicines.
Storage & safe handling
- Use as directed on the cosmetic product.
- Patch-test on a small area of skin first.
- Products meant for the skin are not made for injection.
- If injected, use sterile equipment — this is not an approved use.
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Sources: EU Cosmetics Regulation (EC) 1223/2009; cosmetic studies.
Last updated 12 October 2026. Information — not medical advice. PepTimer does not replace a doctor. Many peptides are not approved medicines in the EU, UK or US. Talk to a qualified healthcare provider before starting, changing or stopping any treatment.
Last updated 12 October 2026. Information — not medical advice. PepTimer does not replace a doctor. Many peptides are not approved medicines in the EU, UK or US. Talk to a qualified healthcare provider before starting, changing or stopping any treatment.