Protocol
Longevity and Anti-Aging
GHK-Cu Copper Peptide Protocol [2026]
Systemic and topical GHK-Cu research for wound healing, collagen synthesis, skin regeneration, and anti-inflammatory activity.
Compounds
GHK-Cu
Dose: 1 mg
Freq: Once daily
Recon: 50mg + 10mL BAC
Conc: 5 mg/mL
Draw: 20 units (U-100)
Calculate GHK-Cu dose
Protocol Phases
Loading Phase
Weeks 1 to 4
1 mg subcutaneous once daily. Some protocols use 2 mg/day. SubQ in abdomen or near target tissue.
Maintenance
Weeks 5 to 12
0.5 to 1 mg every other day. Reassess at 12 weeks.
FAQ
What is GHK-Cu?
GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring copper peptide tripeptide (Gly-His-Lys bound to copper). It is found in human plasma and declines with age. Research shows it stimulates collagen and glycosaminoglycan synthesis, promotes wound healing, reduces inflammation, and activates SPARC and other skin matrix proteins.
Can GHK-Cu be used topically and systemically at the same time?
Yes. Many research protocols combine systemic SubQ dosing with topical GHK-Cu solutions or serums applied to skin or wound areas. The mechanisms complement each other: systemic delivery reaches deep tissues while topical application concentrates effect at the surface.
How does GHK-Cu compare to BPC-157 for wound healing?
BPC-157 primarily works through nitric oxide signaling and is stronger for internal tissue and tendon healing. GHK-Cu targets collagen synthesis and skin matrix directly. For surface wounds and skin aging research, GHK-Cu is the primary choice. For internal tissue and tendon repair, BPC-157 is more studied. They stack well together.
Does GHK-Cu cause any pigmentation?
No. GHK-Cu should not be confused with Melanotan or other melanocortin peptides. GHK-Cu does not stimulate melanin production. It does improve skin tone through collagen and elastin synthesis, but this is structural improvement, not pigmentation change.
Research Notes
- GHK-Cu is copper-chelated. It has a distinct blue-green color in solution. This is normal.
- Store lyophilized at room temperature. Refrigerate once reconstituted.
- Topical concentration of 1 to 2% is common in research serums.
Related Protocols
For research use only. Not medical advice.