Healing & Skin
GHK
Glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine · GHK without copper
What it is
GHK is the same tripeptide as GHK-Cu, but without the bound copper ion. Some users prefer non-copper GHK to avoid the zinc-imbalance issues that can come from chronic copper supplementation, while still getting some of the gene-modulation effects. Less common than the copper-bound form.
How it works
GHK alone has gene-modulating effects but lacks copper's catalytic role in collagen synthesis. The copper-bound form (GHK-Cu) is significantly more potent for skin and tissue repair. Plain GHK acquires copper from the body's own stores in vivo, but at a slower, more variable rate.
Benefits
- Avoids excess copper accumulation
- Mild collagen support
- Anti-inflammatory effects
- Less risk of "copper uglies" from over-supplementation
Timeline
- Week 4–8
- Subtle skin and inflammation improvements (slower than GHK-Cu).
- Month 3+
- Cumulative collagen effects.
Dosing & titration
SubQ dose1–3 mg per week, split across doses
Topical0.05–1% concentration in serum form
When to titrate upMost users get better results from GHK-Cu (with cofactor zinc) than higher doses of plain GHK.
Side effects & risks
- Generally well tolerated
- Mild injection site reactions
- Slower acting than GHK-Cu
Niche use case. Most clinical evidence is for GHK-Cu, not plain GHK. Consider GHK-Cu first unless copper-balance is a specific concern.
Typical price
$60–$120/moFrom a 503A compounding pharmacy.
Studies
- Pickart L. The Human Tripeptide GHK and Tissue Remodeling — Original review covering both forms. PubMedJournal of Biomaterials Science, 2008
- See also: GHK-Cu literature — PubMed searchLive PubMed search
Educational reference only. Not medical advice.