Ingredient guide
Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu)
COPPER TRIPEPTIDE-1
In short
Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu) (also known as copper tripeptide-1) is a skincare active generally associated with firmness and elasticity, barrier support and skin texture and smoothness. It is backed by a moderate body of published research. It is often chosen for dry, sensitive and combination skin. MIRU describes it by what is visible on skin — never as a treatment or cure.
Reviewed against published evidence · editorially independent · no brand pays for placement
Works for
Firmness · Barrier · Texture
Skin type
Dry · Sensitive · Combination
Best used
Anytime
What it is
Naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide (Gly-His-Lys) that accumulates at wound sites. In skin care, acts as a pleiotropic repair signal: stimulates collagen I, III, VII synthesis; activates metalloproteinases for remodelling damaged ECM; promotes wound healing; antioxidant via superoxide dismutase upregulation. Multiple in-vitro and clinical studies at 0.05-2% show improvement in skin firmness, wrinkle depth and scar appearance. One of the most extensively studied peptide actives.
Where it sits
Serums sit after toner and before moisturiser — thinnest to thickest, water before oil.
- Cleanse
- Tone
- Copper Tripeptide-1
- Moisturise
- SPF
Also found as
Related
Where to find it
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Search the Lens for copper tripeptide-1 (ghk-cu)Common questions
What does Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu) do for skin?
Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu) is associated in published research with firmness and elasticity, barrier support and skin texture and smoothness. Naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide (Gly-His-Lys) that accumulates at wound sites. In skin care, acts as a pleiotropic repair signal: stimulates collagen I, III, VII synthesis; activates metalloproteinases for remodelling damaged ECM; promotes wound healing; antioxidant via superoxide dismutase upregulation. Multiple in-vitro and clinical studies at 0.05-2% show improvement in skin firmness, wrinkle depth and scar appearance. One of the most extensively studied peptide actives. MIRU frames ingredients by what is visible, not by medical claims.
When should I use Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu)?
Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu) is typically used morning or evening. Introduce any new active on its own first and add one product at a time so you can see how your skin responds.
Is Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu) suitable for my skin type?
Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu) is often chosen for dry, sensitive and combination skin. It is generally considered well tolerated — if your skin is reactive, patch-test first and watch for any irritation.
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Personal guidance only · For clinical concerns, see a dermatologist.