The Renewer
Copper tripeptide-1 (Gly-His-Lys + copper)
GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring copper-binding peptide first identified in human plasma in 1973. Unlike most research peptides, it has a long history as a cosmetic skin-care ingredient, where it is well studied for skin appearance and wound healing.
GHK-Cu is legal and widely sold as a topical cosmetic ingredient. It is not FDA-approved as an injectable drug, so injectable 'research' versions are outside approved medical use.
GHK-Cu is a copper peptide researched for skin regeneration, collagen and elastin production, and wound healing — especially in topical applications.
It is one of the better-studied cosmetic peptides for skin firmness and wrinkle appearance in topical research, which is why it appears in many skin-care formulations. This is educational information based on published research — not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before considering any peptide.
GHK-Cu delivers copper into cells and is associated with stimulating collagen and elastin production, supporting wound repair, and modulating genes involved in tissue regeneration and antioxidant defense. Its declining levels with age are part of why it's studied in the context of skin aging.
GHK and GHK-Cu have decades of research, much of it from Pickart and colleagues, including topical studies on skin firmness, wrinkles, and wound healing. Topical/cosmetic use is comparatively well established; injectable 'research' use is far less studied in humans.
GHK-Cu is widely and legally available as a cosmetic skin-care ingredient. However, it is not FDA-approved as an injectable drug, and injectable 'research' products fall outside approved medical use.
Last updated: June 2026
See the full Peptide Legal Status TrackerEducational content only — not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before considering any peptide.