Home / Encyclopedia / Copper Tripeptide-1
Peptide

Copper Tripeptide-1

Bioactive copper complex of three amino acids (glycine-histidine-lysine) — one of the most researched peptides in dermatology. Stimulates collagen and elastin synthesis, accelerates wound healing, and has a powerful anti-fibrotic effect. Original name: GHK-Cu.

copper peptidestimulates collagenskin healinganti-aging
✓ Safe
Comedogenic Rating
0/5
Irritation Potential
0/5

What is it?

GHK-Cu = tripeptide Glycine-Histidine-Lysine + copper ion Cu²⁺. Molecular weight ~340 Da (of the complex). Naturally synthesized in the body: controls tissue regeneration processes. Mechanisms of action: 1) Activates genes for the synthesis of collagen types I, III, and VI; 2) Stimulates the synthesis of glycosaminoglycans (hyaluronan, heparan sulfate); 3) Activates antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT); 4) Inhibits TGF-β1 → anti-fibrotic action (prevents scarring); 5) Activates the growth of capillaries and nerves. In cosmetics: INCI = Copper Tripeptide-1. A concentration of 1–5 ppm is already active.

Anti-aging serums and creams for mature skin, products for recovery after peels and laser procedures, products for strengthening and thickening the skin, hair growth serums.

Key Benefits

✦
Stimulation of collagen and elastin synthesis
GHK-Cu is one of the strongest stimulators of collagen synthesis among topical ingredients. Activates genes COL1A1, COL1A2, COL3A1 in fibroblasts. Clinical studies: after 12 weeks of use — increased skin density, reduced wrinkle depth, improved elasticity. Compared to retinol: comparable effectiveness without irritation. Synergy with vitamin C (ascorbic acid — cofactor for pro-collagen hydroxylation).
◈
Skin healing and barrier restoration
GHK-Cu ─ originally studied as a "wound healing factor." Mechanism: recruits stem cells to the site of damage, activates capillary growth (angiogenesis), stimulates matrix synthesis. In cosmetics: accelerates recovery after procedures (chemical peels, microneedling, laser), reduces redness, strengthens the barrier. Effective for post-acne and hyperpigmentation.
✧
Antioxidant protection and anti-fibrotic action
Copper in GHK-Cu activates superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase — key antioxidant enzymes. Anti-fibrotic effect: inhibits TGF-β1, which is responsible for excessive scarring → with regular use, reduces skin stiffness. Geroprotective action: GHK affects over 31 genes related to aging — unique pleiotropic activity among cosmetic peptides.

Suitable for

mature skinskin after proceduresthin and sagging skin

Main Actions

✓ stimulation of collagen and elastin synthesis✓ healing and restoration of the skin✓ antioxidant protection
GHK-Cu: stability and pH

GHK-Cu is unstable at pH <4 (decomposition of the complex) and in the presence of strong oxidizers (vitamin C in an unstabilized form). Optimal pH of the formula: 5.5–7. Incompatibility: do not mix in the same formula with ascorbic acid (L-AA, pH <3.5) — the copper complex is lost. Can alternate: GHK-Cu in the morning, vitamin C in the evening. Synergy: retinol, peptides, hyaluronic acid.

CategoryPeptides

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Copper Tripeptide-1 do for skin?
Anti-aging serums and creams for mature skin, products for recovery after peels and laser procedures, products for strengthening and thickening the skin, hair growth serums.
Who should use Copper Tripeptide-1?
Copper Tripeptide-1 is suitable for: mature skin, skin after procedures, thin and sagging skin.
Are there any warnings about Copper Tripeptide-1?
GHK-Cu is unstable at pH <4 (decomposition of the complex) and in the presence of strong oxidizers (vitamin C in an unstabilized form). Optimal pH of the formula: 5.5–7. Incompatibility: do not mix in the same formula with ascorbic acid (L-AA, pH <3.5) — the copper complex is los

Check if this ingredient works for your skin — analyze your full product formula for free.

Analyze your product