
What is GHK-Cu?
- GHK-Cu is a peptide the skin makes naturally that is involved in tissue repair and regeneration3
- Levels naturally decline with age, impacting skin repair, firmness, and collagen production1 2
- Replenishing GHK-Cu has shown to help improve the appearance of fine lines, skin density, texture, and overall tone1 4
- Available in two clinical grade formulation strengths, a 0.5% cream for those starting out and 3% cream for those seeking enhanced results. Many people begin at 0.5% and step up to 3% as their skin adapts. Your provider will help match the strength to your goals and tolerance.
GHK-CU BENEFITS
Regenerative Skin Support
- Supports local renewal and regeneration within the epidermis and dermis1
- Supports collagen production, hydration, regeneration, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects1 3 4
- May help reinforce skin barrier integrity and improve resilience over time6
- A gentler alternative to retinoids and resurfacing treatments
- Apply topically 5x weekly for a simple, consistent routine that takes under a minute
- Compounded by US-licensed pharmacies
GHK-Cu has not been approved by the FDA for these uses.


The Science of GHK-Cu
Clinically studied and naturally occurring: GHK-Cu has become one of the most talked-about peptides in skin care, tracked by dermatologists alongside the broader skin longevity conversation. GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring peptide that declines with age.1 It binds to skin cell receptors to enhance gene expression related to repair and renewal, reducing the activity of enzymes that degrade skin structural proteins with age, and helping restore the skin’s natural regeneration processes.3
Supports skin repair and resilience: GHK-Cu’s antioxidant activity may help protect against oxidative stress from UV and environmental exposure, helping reduce photodamage and discoloration.5 7 It may also support collagen and elastin production, improve firmness and texture, and reduce inflammation that drives chronic skin conditions over time.4
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- Lower-strength formulation for those new to GHK-Cu
- 100% online medical assessment
- Free shipping, unlimited provider messaging and ongoing support
- Compounded GHK-Cu 0.5% cream from US-licensed pharmacy
- Pause or cancel anytime
CODE 30OFFGHKCU: $30 for first month and FREE medical evaluation ($129/month after)
- Maximum-strength formulation for those seeking enhanced results
- 100% online medical assessment
- Free shipping, unlimited provider messaging and ongoing support
- Compounded GHK-Cu 3% cream from US-licensed pharmacy
- Pause or cancel anytime
CODE 30OFFGHKCU: $30 for first month and FREE medical evaluation ($179/month after)
GHK-Cu Cream is not available in AR.
You will be automatically billed & sent refills based on your plan
You can pause or cancel at any time before your next shipment
The FDA has not approved or reviewed GHK-Cu for safety, efficacy, quality, or for any use, including the AgelessRx compounded product
Prescription products require an online evaluation with a licensed medical professional who will determine if a prescription is appropriate. See below for important safety information. Benefits outlined on AgelessRx.com are based on 3rd party studies. Medication is offered as a subscription service which you can cancel at any time. Actual product packaging may appear differently than shown.
FAQs
What is GHK-Cu Cream?
GHK-Cu (Copper Tripeptide-1) is a naturally occurring peptide found in the body that supports skin repair and renewal processes, including collagen production and overall skin quality.4 Levels of GHK-Cu naturally decline with age.1 While GHK-Cu is not FDA-approved to treat medical conditions, it is commonly used in cosmetic dermatology for skin appearance and rejuvenation.2
How does GHK-Cu Cream work?
GHK-Cu Cream works locally within the skin layers (epidermis and dermis).1 Research suggests it may help support collagen and elastin production, promote tissue repair and remodeling, help regulate inflammatory signaling in the skin, support skin barrier integrity, and provide antioxidant activity within the skin.5 7 This treatment is intended for external skin use only.
What benefits can I expect from GHK-Cu Cream?
Individual results vary, and benefits are not guaranteed. With consistent use, some users may notice benefits such as improved skin firmness and elasticity, reduction in the appearance of fine lines, improved skin texture and tone, support for recovery from environmental stressors, and enhanced overall skin appearance.3
What is the difference between 3% and 0.5% GHK-Cu?
Both strengths use the same peptide; the difference is intensity, and the right one depends on your skin and your goals.
The 0.5% cream is our gentle, everyday starting point. It is ideal if you are new to copper peptides or have sensitive or reactive skin, and it suits delicate areas like the face and around the eyes. It builds results gradually with a low chance of irritation.
The 3% cream is our higher-intensity option. It is formulated for skin that is already comfortable with active ingredients, for tougher or thicker-skinned areas, and for more advanced goals like firmness and deeper-set texture, delivering more peptide per application for those who want to push results further. Many people begin at 0.5% and step up to 3% as their skin adapts. Your provider will help match the strength to your goals and tolerance.
Important safety information and common side effects
Side effects
The most common side effects of GHK-Cu Cream include:
- Mild redness
- Temporary tingling or warmth
- Dryness
- Mild irritation or sensitivity
These side effects are typically mild and often go away on their own within a week or two.
For a full list of side effects, please review Healthline’s Copper Peptide resources.
Potential drug interactions
GHK-Cu Cream has no known major drug interactions due to systemic absorption. However, certain skincare products may increase irritation when used together:
- Retinoids (Tretinoin, Adapalene)
May increase skin sensitivity. - Exfoliating acids (AHA/BHA products)
May cause irritation when layered together. - Benzoyl peroxide
May increase dryness or irritation.
Other important safety information
GHK-Cu Cream is intended for external use only. Do not use GHK-Cu Cream if you are allergic to copper peptides or any peptide components, or if you have an active skin infection, active inflammatory dermatologic condition, or open wounds.
Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes. If accidental contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water.
Do not use GHK-Cu Cream if you have an active cancer, or if you have had cancer within the last two years.
Do not use GHK-Cu Cream if you have significant heart dysfunction (ejection fraction <50% or NYHA Class 3 or greater).
Do not use GHK-Cu Cream if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant or breastfeed. If you become pregnant during treatment, discontinue immediately and consult your OB.
Though rare, allergic reactions to GHK-Cu Cream are still possible. If you notice any shortness of breath or swelling around your face, tongue, or throat after using GHK-Cu Cream, stop use and contact emergency services right away.
As with any prescription medication, the dose prescribed is for you and you alone. Do not, under any circumstances, allow anyone else to use your GHK-Cu Cream.
Show me the science.
All our claims are backed by science, and we’ve got the receipts.
| 1. A review highlighting GHK-cu decline with age and the broad biological actions of GHK-Cu in stimulating multiple protective effects to support overall skin health and regeneration. | Int J Mol Sci, 2018 |
| 2. A review of peptides for skin health, inclujding GHK-Cu, demonstrating its ability to improve firmness, elasticity, and skin resilience in clinical studies. | Biomolecules. 2025 |
| 3. A review of GHK-Cu highlighting its role as a natural peptide supporting skin regeneration, wound healing, skin firmness, and elasticity. | Bio Res Int, 2015 |
| 4. A review highlighting GHK-Cu as effective and safe for reducing wrinkles through stimulating collagen and elastin production. | Journ Func Foods, 2021 |
| 5. A review summarizing the efficacy of GHK-Cu for protecting from environmental factors that accelerate skin aging. | Cosmetics, 2017 |
| 6. A comprehensive review demonstrating peptides, including GHK-Cu, improves skin barrier integrity and resilience. | Int Journ Cosm Sci, 2009 |
| 7. A review of GHK-Cu highlighting its role in enhancing wound healing, collagen production, and tissue regeneration, while demonstrating antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and gene-regulating effects that support skin health and cellular repair. | Cosmetics, 2015 |


