Peptide library · Skin & longevity
GHK-Cu
Copper peptide
Cosmetic ingredient1973the year this copper binding peptide was first identified in human plasma
What it is
A three amino acid peptide (glycine, histidine, lysine) that binds copper. A skincare staple for decades.
Why researchers are interested
- Lab and animal studies on collagen production and wound repair.
- Gene expression research suggests it influences many repair pathways.
- Widely used in topical serums and creams.
Good to know
- Large independent human trials are limited.
- FDA compounding review scheduled for Feb 2027.
Evidence level: 2 of 5
Sources
Pickart and Margolina, Int J Mol Sci 2018
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Educational content only. Not medical advice. Last reviewed 2026-10-17.