GHK-Cu
Copper Tripeptide-1
Regenerative copper peptide, well-evidenced
GHK-Cu is a small peptide (glycyl-histidyl-lysyl) bonded to a copper ion. It occurs naturally in human plasma at decreasing concentrations with age. In topical use it has been studied since the 1970s for wound healing, hair regrowth, and skin regeneration applications.
GHK-Cu has two formulation challenges that limit its commercial use. First, it requires opaque, airless packaging — the copper-peptide bond is photosensitive, and exposure to light degrades the active. Second, it is incompatible with high-strength vitamin C, retinol, and AHA/BHA acids in the same formulation.
We use it at 0.05% in the neck concentrate, in a Quadpack Regula airless system that is fully opaque and air-tight. The product is formulated without competing ingredients that would degrade it.
The science
GHK-Cu has unusually well-documented biological activity for a cosmetic peptide. Pickart and Margolina (2018) reviewed several decades of research showing effects on collagen synthesis, antioxidant enzyme activity, and gene expression related to tissue remodelling. A 2007 *International Journal of Cosmetic Science* trial demonstrated visible improvements in skin elasticity, wrinkle depth, and pigmentation at 0.05% concentration over 12 weeks.
