GHK-Cu

Overview

What it is, in plain language

GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring tripeptide — glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine — bound to copper. It circulates in human plasma and declines significantly with age, which has positioned it as a focal point of skin, hair, and gene-expression research.

GHK-Cu is the structural pillar of the AEON aesthetic line. Where BPC-157 signals and TB-500 mobilises, GHK-Cu builds — driving the synthesis of the proteins that hold skin, hair, and connective tissue together.

Gene-expression studies report GHK-Cu modulates over 4,000 genes — broadly directing expression toward profiles associated with younger tissue.

Mechanism

How it works

Research has documented GHK-Cu's role in collagen, elastin, and glycosaminoglycan synthesis. Studies of human cell expression report that GHK-Cu modulates over 4,000 genes, broadly directing expression toward profiles associated with younger tissue. It also exhibits antioxidant activity and copper-delivery functions central to multiple repair enzymes.

Research findings

What the literature shows

Both topical and injectable studies report improvements in skin firmness, density, and clarity; hair-follicle size and pigmentation; and accelerated wound closure.

Gene-expression studies have shown sweeping modulatory effects that distinguish GHK-Cu from compounds with single-pathway activity — effects build gradually over weeks rather than acutely.

Cycle & Handling

Protocol reference

Common research-grade reference figures. Not medical advice — every protocol must be reviewed against the latest published literature and your study design.

Cycle guidance

Standard 4–8 weeks on, 2–4 weeks off. Extended 8–12 weeks for active skin remodelling or hair protocols. Annual ceiling: 3–4 cycles. Extended high-dose protocols (>12 weeks at 2 mg/day) warrant copper/ceruloplasmin checks. Effects build gradually — short cycles under-deliver. The 100 mg vial is the natural fit for extended protocols; the 50 mg vial covers standard 4-week cycles cleanly.

Reconstitution

50 mg vial: 2 mL BAC → 25 mg/mL. Draw 0.04 mL = 1 mg; 0.08 mL = 2 mg. 100 mg vial: 3 mL BAC → 33.3 mg/mL. Draw 0.03 mL = 1 mg; 0.06 mL = 2 mg.

Storage

Lyophilised vial: room temperature short-term, refrigerator long-term. Reconstituted: refrigerate; use within 28 days when reconstituted with bacteriostatic water. Protect from light.

FAQ