GHK-Cu
ALSO SOLD AS Copper peptide
Last reviewed 2026-10-30
Our read Opinion
Topical cosmetic evidence and experimental tissue-repair findings do not validate systemic use. FDA lists injectable GHK-Cu among withdrawn nominations with unresolved safety concerns.
- Type
- Cosmetic / supplement
- Regulatory status
- Cosmetic ingredient; not FDA-approved as a drug
- Compounding status
- Off Category 2, review pending
- FDA-approved indications
- None
- Evidence level
- Small/early human studies
- Routes studied
- Topical, Injection
- WADA
- Verify
- Developer
- Loren Pickart (discovery)
Claims made by researchers, companies and users. Inclusion does not mean the claim is verified.
- —Claimed to support skin and hair
A copper-binding tripeptide investigated for extracellular-matrix remodeling, collagen production and wound-repair signaling. Much of the broad regenerative mechanism literature is preclinical.
GHK-Cu is used in topical cosmetic products; this is not FDA drug approval. No FDA-approved injectable or therapeutic indication was identified, and FDA flags injectable-route safety uncertainties.
Statuses change; check the linked primary source.
Momentum Opinion
Rising
1 news items in last 30 days
Topical cosmetic findings deserve a different evidentiary label from injectable anti-aging claims. A familiar skincare ingredient is not automatically a safe systemic therapy.
FDA.gov
The agency posted a revised list of bulk drug substances and their compounding categories.
Hair density and growth plus skin firmness.
Skin quality, collagen, hair, and faster healing after procedures.
Whole-body repair: injury healing plus gut lining support, skin and hair quality, and lower inflammation.
Information only. Not medical advice. Listing a compound is not an endorsement or a recommendation to obtain or use it. Ratings and "Our Take" are editorial opinion. Full disclaimer.