GHK
Glycyl-L-Histidyl-L-Lysine
The copper-free tripeptide for tissue remodelling
GHK is the base tripeptide (without copper) that signals tissue remodelling. While GHK-Cu gets more attention, GHK alone has significant biological activity.
Admin routes
Topical, Subcutaneous
Popularity
Medium
Side effects
Generally mild
AU vendors
0 rated
✓Key benefits
📈What to expect
Increased skin hydration (topical); systemic signalling begins
Improved wound healing; collagen synthesis increase
Visible skin improvements; gene expression modulation
Cumulative anti-aging and tissue remodelling benefits
Based on community reports and published research. Individual results vary significantly.
💊Dosing protocols
Skin rejuvenation (topical)
Serum with 1–2% GHK
Twice daily
12+ weeks
Systemic (subcutaneous)
100–200 mcg
Once daily
4–8 week cycles
Dosing information is sourced from published research and community protocols. This is not a recommendation. Consult a healthcare professional.
Research status|50+ years of research - well-characterised
Overview
GHK (Glycyl-L-Histidyl-L-Lysine) is the base tripeptide from which GHK-Cu derives. While most attention goes to the copper-bound form, GHK alone has been shown to have biological activity - particularly in gene expression modulation, tissue remodelling signalling, and wound healing promotion. In the body, GHK readily binds available copper ions, so the distinction between GHK and GHK-Cu is partly contextual.
⚙️How it works
Serves as a signalling peptide that modulates gene expression - affecting over 4,000 genes involved in tissue repair, inflammation, and ageing. GHK attracts copper ions in vivo, forming the GHK-Cu complex. Even without pre-bound copper, it influences fibroblast activity, collagen synthesis, and immune cell recruitment to wound sites.
⚡Side effects
📅Research history
GHK tripeptide identified by Dr. Loren Pickart
Wound healing and tissue remodelling properties characterised
Broad gene expression studies reveal 4,000+ gene modulation
Review of GHK as cellular modulator published
Available in both topical formulations and injectable form
GHK vs GHK-Cu
The practical difference is small. GHK will chelate available copper in the body, forming GHK-Cu. Pre-bound GHK-Cu ensures copper is delivered with the peptide. For topical use, GHK-Cu is preferred as skin may have limited free copper. For systemic use, GHK alone is often sufficient as copper is readily available in circulation.
References
- [1]Pickart L, et al. 'GHK peptide as a natural modulator of multiple cellular pathways in skin regeneration.' BioMed Research International, 2015.
- [2]Pickart L. 'The human tripeptide GHK-Cu in prevention of oxidative stress and degenerative conditions of aging.' Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity, 2012.
Frequently asked questions
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Open CalculatorDisclaimer: This guide is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice. The dosing protocols listed are sourced from published research and community reports and do not constitute a recommendation. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any peptide. Australian regulations classify many peptides as Schedule 4 (prescription-only) substances. Check current TGA guidelines before purchasing.