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
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✓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
Related peptides
Need to calculate your dose?
Use our free reconstitution calculator to work out syringe units for GHK.
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.