GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring tripeptide that binds copper ions. First identified in human plasma in the 1970s, levels decline with age. It has been studied for roles in wound healing, skin regeneration, hair growth, and systemic protective effects. It is not FDAapproved as a drug.
How It Is Used in Research Settings
- Topically applied in creams, serums, and microneedling solutions for cosmetic research.
- Injected intradermally or subcutaneously in mesotherapy studies for skin tightening or hair growth.
- Explored in systemic models for antioxidant and regenerative potential.
- Used in preclinical studies for fibrosis modulation and gene expression regulation.
Proposed Uses (Research Areas)
- Skin and cosmetic research (elasticity, wrinkles, scars).
- Hair follicle stimulation and hair loss research.
- Wound and burn healing models.
- Systemic regeneration studies (lung, nervous system, anti-inflammatory pathways).
How It Is Dosed in Research Settings
- Topical: 0.1%–0.5% creams/serums; up to 1%–2% for microneedling and hair regrowth; applied once or twice daily for 8–12 weeks.
- Injectable / Mesotherapy: 2–10 mg per session intradermally or subcutaneously, weekly or biweekly for 4–8 weeks; total 50–200 mg per cycle.
- Systemic (experimental): 2–5 mg daily subcutaneous injection for 10–20 days in wound-healing studies.
Important Considerations
- Regulatory status: Not FDA-approved as a therapeutic drug; used in cosmetic and research contexts.
- Evidence base: Mix of small clinical trials, animal studies, and lab data; large-scale human trials are limited.
- Safety: Generally safe topically; injection protocols require clinical oversight; purity and sourcing are concerns.
Disclaimer
This material is provided for educational purposes only and summarizes published research on GHK-Cu. It is not medical advice. GHK-Cu is experimental, not FDA-approved, and should not be viewed as a therapy for medical use.
This peptide is for research use only.
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