Copper-Peptide GHK-Cu: A Skin-Repair Promise with Caution
GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring copper peptide (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine bound to copper) that the body makes but which declines with age; it’s found in some topicals, hair products and experimental supplements, and is being explored for skin firming, elasticity, wound healing and possibly hair growth and brain health. While topical use appears generally safe and may offer retinoid-like benefits with less irritation, evidence is early and mostly preclinical; injectable or oral forms lack solid human data and can raise safety concerns. Many products aren’t FDA-approved for anti-aging, and copper dosing must be careful to avoid toxicity, especially in people with copper metabolism issues—consult a healthcare professional before use.