GHK-CU 50/100mg

GHK-CU 50/100mg
£25.00

(NOT FOR HUMAN CONSUMPTION RESEARCH USE ONLY) 

GHK-Cu

(glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine copper) is a naturally occurring copper complex first discovered in human plasma in 1973. It is widely recognized for its potent regenerative, anti-inflammatory, and anti-aging properties. 

 

Core Functions and Mechanism

GHK-Cu acts as a signaling molecule that modulates the expression of over 4,000 human genes, resetting them to a more youthful state. 

  • Collagen & Elastin Stimulation: It significantly boosts the production of collagen, elastin, and glycosaminoglycans, which are essential for skin firmness and elasticity.
  • Wound Healing: It accelerates tissue repair by stimulating cell migration and new blood vessel formation (angiogenesis) while suppressing inflammatory cytokines like TNF-alpha.
  • Antioxidant Action: It stabilizes copper ions to deliver them non-toxically into cells, enhancing the activity of antioxidant enzymes like superoxide dismutase (SOD).
  • Hair Follicle Support: Research suggests it can enlarge hair follicles and extend the growth (anagen) phase of hair, potentially performing similarly to minoxidil. 

 

Biological Decline

GHK-Cu levels naturally decline significantly with age. 

  • Age 20: Approximately 200 ng/mL in human plasma.
  • Age 60: Drops to roughly 80 ng/mL.
    This decline is a primary factor in why wound healing slows and skin quality decreases as people age.     

 

Applications and Availability

  • Topical Skincare: Widely used in over-the-counter creams, serums, and masks (often listed as "Copper Tripeptide-1") to reduce wrinkles, fine lines, and hyperpigmentation.
  • Injectable Research: Available as a lyophilized powder for subcutaneous injection, typically used in laboratory or clinical research settings.
  • Oral Supplements: Emerging in liposomal forms to improve systemic bioavailability, though oral GHK-Cu is not currently FDA-approved as a dietary supplement. 

 

Safety and Regulatory Status

  • FDA Status: GHK-Cu is generally not FDA-approved for systemic use or as a dietary supplement. Injectable versions are often classified for "research purposes only".
  • Side Effects: Topical use is generally well-tolerated but may cause mild redness, itching, or irritation in sensitive individuals. Systemic use through injections may cause mild site reactions.
  • Caution: High doses of oral GHK-Cu may carry a theoretical risk of copper toxicity, which can lead to gastrointestinal issues or organ damage.