GHK-Cu

Compound: GHK-Cu (copper tripeptide-1)
Full name: Glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine copper(II)
Amount: 50 mg per vial
Form: Freeze-dried (lyophilised) powder
Purity: 99.86%, independent HPLC analysis
Molecular weight: approx. 404 g/mol
CAS number: 49557-75-7
Reconstitute with: Bacteriostatic water (not included)
Batch / expiry: AR-001, exp. 09/2028

The powder is light blue. That's normal: it comes from the copper in the molecule.

GHK-Cu is a copper-binding peptide found naturally in human plasma, first identified in 1973. It's one of the most studied compounds in skin and tissue-repair research, with over 40 years of published work. Natural levels decline with age, falling by around 60% between age 20 and 60.

Areas studied

Collagen and skin structure. Human studies of skin-applied GHK-Cu reported increased collagen production and improved firmness and density.

Wound and tissue repair. Decades of laboratory and animal research on wound healing and tissue remodelling.

Hair follicles. Early data suggests effects on follicle size and hair growth.

Inflammation and oxidative stress. Reductions reported, mainly in animal studies.

Evidence in brief: The strongest human results come from skin-applied use. Research on other routes is newer and limited.

For the full profile, including study summaries, see the GHK-Cu page in Apex Academy.

Sold for laboratory research only. Not approved to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any condition.

Before reconstitution
Store the sealed vial in the fridge at 2–8 °C, away from light. For longer storage, keep it in the freezer.

Reconstitution
GHK-Cu is typically reconstituted with bacteriostatic water. Adding 3 mL gives a concentration of approx. 16.67 mg/mL. Run the water slowly down the inside wall of the vial, then swirl gently until dissolved. Don't shake it.

After reconstitution
Keep upright in the fridge at 2–8 °C, away from light, and use within 28 days. Never freeze once mixed.

Quality check
A good vial holds a light blue powder that dissolves into a clear, light blue solution. Discard it if the solution turns green, brown or cloudy, shows particles, or is older than 28 days after mixing.