Information only. Not medical advice, and not a recommendation to use any compound. We do not sell or supply any compound Speak to a doctor before any decision about your health Information only. Not medical advice, and not a recommendation to use any compound. We do not sell or supply any compound Speak to a doctor before any decision about your health Information only. Not medical advice, and not a recommendation to use any compound. We do not sell or supply any compound Speak to a doctor before any decision about your health
Genexis Health
Compounds
Dermal

GHK-Cu

Also known as Copper tripeptide-1 · Copper peptide

Phase 2 trials

Tested in humans for efficacy at a modest scale. Enough to show a signal and characterise short-term tolerability, not enough to establish safety or durability. Most compounds that reach this stage still fail.

Cosmetic ingredient Used in topical cosmetic formulations. Not a medicine and not regulated as one.
Illustration only. Not a photograph of a product, and not an offer of supply — Genexis Health does not sell or supply GHK-Cu.

What it is

A naturally occurring tripeptide that binds copper, first isolated from human plasma in the 1970s. Plasma levels decline with age, which is the observation most claims about it are built on. It is a cosmetic ingredient, not a medicine.

How it is thought to work

Acts as a copper carrier. In cell culture it influences collagen and glycosaminoglycan synthesis, modulates matrix metalloproteinases and their inhibitors, and affects genes involved in tissue remodelling.

What the studies found

  • Topical studies show measurable skin effects

    Small controlled studies of topical formulations have reported improvements in skin density, fine lines and photodamage over 12 weeks, some with biopsy-confirmed changes in collagen.

  • Extensive laboratory characterisation

    Its effect on fibroblasts and the extracellular matrix in vitro is well documented across many independent groups.

What the evidence does not show

  • Human studies are small, often industry-funded, and mostly assess topical application over short periods.
  • Laboratory effects on cells in culture are far better established than clinical benefit in people.
  • Claims extending beyond skin — hair growth, systemic anti-ageing, wound healing — rest largely on in-vitro work and mouse studies.

Reported risks and adverse effects

  • Topical use is generally well tolerated; irritation and contact dermatitis are the main reported effects.
  • Copper has systemic toxicity at sufficient exposure, and the safety of non-topical routes has not been characterised.
  • It is formulated and regulated as a cosmetic ingredient, which is a lower evidential bar than a medicine.

This is a summary of what has been reported in the literature, not a complete safety profile. For anything concerning your own health, speak to a doctor.

Regulatory status

A permitted cosmetic ingredient in the UK, EU and US, found in many commercial skincare products. Not a medicine and not licensed as one.