Skin & cosmetic · Peptide
GHK-Cu
Also known as Copper Peptide
A naturally occurring copper-binding peptide used topically for skin renewal.
Status as of 2026-07 · reclassification ≠ FDA approval · educational only, not medical advice.
The signal it sends
Signals skin cells to remodel collagen and elastin and supports wound repair.
Benefits & effects studied
- Improved firmness & texture
- Supports collagen
- Hair-follicle support interest
Research state
Decent topical evidence; widely used in cosmetics.
Dosing & pharmacokinetics
Applied topically once or twice daily in serums. Half-life: n/a (topical).
Dosing information is educational only. GHK-Cu decisions belong with a licensed clinician — Jevity does not recommend or supply dosing.
History & discovery
First described 1973 by Loren Pickart Origin: Discovered by biochemist Loren Pickart during his PhD at UC San Francisco, while investigating why young human plasma rejuvenated aged liver tissue; he isolated the active factor from the albumin fraction of blood and identified it as a copper-binding tripeptide..
Molecular structure
A tiny three-amino-acid peptide (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine) bound to a copper ion.
Frequently asked questions
Is GHK-Cu FDA-approved?
Cosmetic ingredient (topical); injectable not FDA-approved On Jevity's evidence scale, GHK-Cu is graded "Topical cosmetic". Reclassification for compounding is not the same as FDA approval.
What is GHK-Cu used for?
A naturally occurring copper-binding peptide used topically for skin renewal. Signals skin cells to remodel collagen and elastin and supports wound repair. Studied effects include: Improved firmness & texture; Supports collagen; Hair-follicle support interest. This is educational information, not a recommendation to use it.
Is GHK-Cu legal in the UAE?
UAE / DHA status: Available as a cosmetic (topical)
Is GHK-Cu banned in sport?
WADA status: Not prohibited (topical)
What is GHK-Cu's Jevity Score?
GHK-Cu has a Jevity Score of 58/100 — a proprietary composite of evidence strength (5/10), regulatory clarity (7/10) and supply verifiability (6/10). It reflects how established and legitimate the compound is, not a recommendation.
GHK-Cu is prescription-only or research-only. A licensed clinician must evaluate whether it's appropriate for you.
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Educational information only — not medical advice, a diagnosis, or a recommendation to use any substance or therapy. Regulatory status changes; verify current rules and any personal decision with a licensed clinician. Jevity is operated by Upcapital Global FZCO, Dubai, UAE.