What Is GHK-Cu?
GHK-Cu (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine copper) is a tripeptide-copper complex that occurs naturally in the human body. Blood plasma levels of GHK-Cu are roughly 200 ng/mL at age 20 and drop to approximately 80 ng/mL by age 60 — a 60% decline that correlates with the reduced regenerative capacity seen in aging. Research has linked GHK-Cu to the regulation of over 4,000 human genes, with particularly strong effects on genes governing collagen production, inflammation resolution, and tissue repair.
What GHK-Cu Does
- Collagen and elastin synthesis: Stimulates production of the structural proteins that give skin its firmness and elasticity
- Wound healing acceleration: Promotes angiogenesis, keratinocyte migration, and fibroblast activation at wound sites
- Anti-inflammatory gene modulation: Downregulates inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress pathways
- Hair follicle stimulation: Shown to extend the anagen (growth) phase of hair follicles and increase follicle size
- Nerve regeneration: Preclinical evidence for nerve cell protection and repair
- Fibrosis reduction: Research suggests potential benefits for lung and liver fibrosis
Much of the mechanism research is from in vitro and animal studies. Clinical human data is strongest for topical skin applications. Consult your physician for treatment decisions.
Who Uses GHK-Cu?
- Adults seeking evidence-based skin rejuvenation beyond cosmetic-grade products
- Patients dealing with poor wound healing or scar formation post-surgery
- Those experiencing hair thinning or early-stage androgenic alopecia
- Longevity-focused patients incorporating GHK-Cu into broader anti-aging protocols
- Patients with skin conditions like acne scarring, sun damage, or age spots
Administration
Topical (Serum / Cream)
The most common form for skin rejuvenation and hair applications. Applied directly to the face, scalp, or affected area. Pharmaceutical-grade compounded concentrations are significantly higher than over-the-counter skincare products. Requires prescription.
Subcutaneous Injection
Used for systemic anti-aging, tissue repair, and wound healing protocols. Provides systemic bioavailability beyond what topical application achieves. Typical dose: 1–2mg per injection, 3–5x per week, as directed by your physician.
What to Expect
Results vary by application:
- Skin: Improved texture and reduced fine lines at 4–8 weeks; more significant rejuvenation at 12+ weeks
- Hair: Reduced shedding at 4–6 weeks; new growth evidence at 12–24 weeks
- Wound/scar: Accelerated healing timelines; reduced scar hypertrophy
- Systemic anti-aging: Subtle — energy, recovery, and inflammatory markers over several months
Side effects are rare. Some patients experience mild skin redness with topical application that resolves within days as skin adapts. Injectable GHK-Cu is generally very well tolerated.
Cost in Tennessee
Compounded GHK-Cu serum or injectable runs $100–250/month depending on formulation, concentration, and quantity. Injectable protocols are typically at the higher end of that range. See our full cost guide.