What is GHK-Cu?
GHK-Cu, or Copper Tripeptide-1, is a naturally occurring copper complex composed of three amino acids: glycine, histidine, and lysine. This peptide is known for its various health and cosmetic benefits.
In the healthcare realm, GHK-Cu is recognized for its wound-healing properties. It helps stimulate collagen production and has anti-inflammatory effects, which are crucial for healing.
In cosmetics, GHK-Cu is often used in anti-aging products. It boosts the production of collagen and elastin, which can improve skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of wrinkles. Additionally, it's used in hair growth products because it can potentially stimulate hair follicle growth.
GHK-Cu in Human Trials
GHK-Cu has been the subject of numerous human trials due to its potential health and cosmetic benefits.
Regenerative and Protective Actions: Clinical studies confirmed GHK-Cu's ability to improve the appearance of aging skin.
Anti-Aging Peptide: GHK and GHK-Cu have shown anti-inflammatory and tissue remodeling properties. Clinical research has shown positive results in relation to anti-aging.
Epigenetic Mechanisms: In a clinical trial, GHK-Cu was found to increase skin collagen density.
DNA Resetting: GHK has the potential to reset genes of diseased cells from patients with COPD or cancer to a healthier state.
Wound Healing and Tissue Regeneration: Early studies established that GHK stimulates wound healing and tissue regeneration and increases collagen, elastin, and glycosaminoglycans.
Skin Quality Improvement: Placebo-controlled clinical studies found GHK-Cu to improve skin quality in women around the age of 50.
Gene Expression: Research suggests that nearly all biological effects of GHK require the presence of copper 2+, which is chelated to the tripeptide.
Wound Healing (In Vivo Studies): GHK-Cu peptide has been used for wound healing and has produced satisfactory results.
Skin Collagen Density: Epigenetic mechanisms activated by GHK-Cu may increase skin collagen density, according to new research.
Cosmetic use of GHK-Cu – Facial Study
In a study, GHK-Cu was incorporated into a lipophilic nano-carrier to improve its delivery into the skin, overcoming the challenge of the skin's natural barrier. The researchers found that this formulation increased collagen and elastin production, two proteins that are key to maintaining skin's elasticity and firmness.
Furthermore, the study also observed a significant reduction in facial wrinkle parameters after consistently applying the GHK-Cu formulation. This suggests that GHK-Cu can effectively reduce visible signs of aging and improve overall skin quality.
Hair Growth Benefits
Hair Growth and Thickness: GHK-Cu is known to increase hair growth and thickness and enlarge hair follicle size.
Improving Hair Density and Reducing Shedding: Apart from promoting hair growth, GHK-Cu can also improve hair density and reduce shedding. It may also help improve scalp health and reduce oxidative stress.
Stimulating Blood Flow: Copper peptides, including GHK-Cu, can stimulate blood flow to all the affected areas of the scalp. Good blood flow is crucial as it provides nutrients that stimulate hair growth.
Micro-Level Circulation Improvement: GHK-Cu can improve circulation at the micro-level, allowing follicles to continue growing hair normally.
Repairing Proteins and Increasing Collagen and Elastin Production: GHK-Cu helps with hair growth by repairing proteins and increasing collagen and elastin production in your scalp.
Sources:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6073405/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8789089/
https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3425/7/2/20
https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acsomega.9b00655
https://practicaldermatology.com/news/epigenetic-mechanisms-activated-by-ghk-cu-increase-skin-collagen-density
https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Zimei-Wu/publication/312416949_Effects_of_GHK-Cu_on_MMP_and_TIMP_Expression_Collagen_and_Elastin_Production_and_Facial_Wrinkle_Parameters/links/58db108caca272d80105512c/Effects-of-GHK-Cu-on-MMP-and-TIMP-Expression-Collagen-and-Elastin-Production-and-Facial-Wrinkle-Parameters.pdf