What it is
GHK-Cu is a copper-binding tripeptide studied for skin remodeling, wound healing, and hair-related applications. Topical use is the main practical setting; subcutaneous use is much less established.
Evidence boundary
Investigational with human-facing review material. Keep the interpretation cautious and cosmetic-focused.
Trial evidence
- PMID 42578445 — Peptide Supplements and Their Therapeutic Applications in Sports Medicine.
- PMID 42123471 — Therapeutic Peptides in Aesthetic, Metabolic and Endocrine Conditions: Effects, Safety, Clinical Applications, and Future Perspectives.
- PMID 41476424 — Injectable Peptide Therapy: A Primer for Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Physicians.
Preparation and measurement
Reconstitution: 50 mg vial + 3 mL BAC = 16.67 mg/mL.
Concentration matches.
Reference schedule
| Phase | Dose | Draw / measure | Frequency | Weekly total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Weeks 1–4 (titration) | 1 mg | 6 U (0.06 mL) | 5 days/week (sub-Q) or 3×/week alternative | 3 mg/week |
| Weeks 5–8 | 1.5 mg | 9 U (0.09 mL) | 5 days/week (sub-Q) or 3×/week alternative | 4.5 mg/week |
| Weeks 9–12+ (target) | 2 mg | 12 U (0.12 mL) | 5 days/week (sub-Q) or 3×/week alternative | 6 mg/week |
Weeks 1–4 (titration)
- Dose
- 1 mg
- Draw / measure
- 6 U (0.06 mL)
- Frequency
- 5 days/week (sub-Q) or 3×/week alternative
- Weekly total
- 3 mg/week
Weeks 5–8
- Dose
- 1.5 mg
- Draw / measure
- 9 U (0.09 mL)
- Frequency
- 5 days/week (sub-Q) or 3×/week alternative
- Weekly total
- 4.5 mg/week
Weeks 9–12+ (target)
- Dose
- 2 mg
- Draw / measure
- 12 U (0.12 mL)
- Frequency
- 5 days/week (sub-Q) or 3×/week alternative
- Weekly total
- 6 mg/week
Weekly totals apply only during the active phase.
Titration rules
- Light (1 mg/day): Skin-focused protocol. Sub-Q daily.
- Standard (2 mg/day): Common research dose. Sub-Q daily.
- Higher (3 mg/day): Wound healing or aggressive remodeling protocols.
- Cycle: Continuous daily use is common. Some protocols cycle 12 weeks on, 4 weeks off.
Cycle length and breaks
Some protocols cycle 12 weeks on, 4 weeks off.
What to monitor
- Skin texture and wound response
- Fine lines or firmness if used topically
- Hair/scalp response if that is the goal
- Injection-site irritation
- Redness or itch from topical use
Practical rules
- Use sun protection.
- Keep the skin routine simple.
- Rotate sites if dosing sub-Q.
- Do not oversell the gene-level claims.
Research coverage
Related reporting from Compound Chronicle, which tracks the peer-reviewed literature on GHK-Cu.
- GHK-Cu: Human Evidence vs. Preclinical Claims Aug 16, 2026
GHK-Cu is among the most widely discussed copper peptides. The interesting question is which of its effects are backed by human evidence and which remain preclinical.
Related protocols
BPC-157 Peptide Protocol & DosingTB-500 (Thymosin Beta-4) Protocol & DosingGLOW Peptide Dosage Chart & Blend ProtocolCartalax Peptide Protocol & DosingAHK-Cu Peptide Protocol & DosingArgireline Peptide Protocol & Dosing Supply & lot verification
Availability and batch-linked COA records for GHK-Cu Peptide Protocol & Dosing are kept with the current product listing.
View availability & COA → Verification notes