At MD Total Wellness, we offer physician-supervised peptide therapy with professional-grade peptides sourced from licensed compounding pharmacies.
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GHK-Cu — a copper peptide backed by decades of research — is a popular peptide, used for skin rejuvenation, hair growth, healing and recovery, and anti-aging.
GHK-Cu (Glycyl-L-Histidyl-L-Lysine Copper) is a copper-binding peptide found in human plasma, saliva, and urine that acts as a regenerative, anti-inflammatory, and anti-aging agent.
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GHK-Cu levels decline significantly with age — dropping by approximately 60% by age 60 — contributing to reduced skin elasticity, fine lines and wrinkles, hair thinning, and slower tissue repair. GHK-Cu therapy works by stimulating collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid production, and by activating hair follicles for improved growth, thickness, and strength.
GHK-Cu therapy provides a range of regenerative benefits, supported by scientific studies:
Increases production of collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid — helping reduce fine lines, smooth wrinkles, boost skin firmness, and improve hydration.
Promotes hair growth and thickness by increasing follicle size, reducing inflammation, and inhibiting 5-alpha reductase to reduce DHT. GHK-Cu works well as part of a comprehensive hair restoration program. At MDTW, we combine GHK-Cu with treatments like Alma TED, low-level laser therapy, and medications for optimal results. Learn more about our hair restoration program.
Accelerates tissue repair by increasing collagen production, promoting new blood vessel growth, and increasing stem cell activity.
Reduces inflammation and oxidative stress in tissues — potentially beneficial for inflammatory joint or gut conditions.
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Patients often report noticeable improvements in skin texture, hair density, and overall appearance within weeks of starting treatment.
Key scientific mechanisms:
GHK-Cu stimulates fibroblasts to increase production of collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid — crucial for skin firmness, elasticity, and tissue repair.
GHK-Cu binds copper and delivers it into cells, where it functions as a cofactor for enzymes that protect against oxidative damage and promote skin remodeling.
Copper influences over 4,000 genes, acting as an epigenetic modifier that reverses age-related gene expression — suppressing inflammatory genes and increasing expression of genes involved in tissue regeneration.
GHK-Cu promotes new blood vessel growth to increase nutrient delivery to damaged tissues, and enhances hair follicle health by stimulating dermal papilla cells.
Research on GHK-Cu spans decades, with studies highlighting its regenerative potential.
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A 2018 review in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences analyzed gene data showing GHK-Cu’s ability to reset genes to a healthier state, promoting anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, and tissue-remodeling actions.
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Clinical trials on skin have demonstrated improvements: In one study, GHK-Cu applied to photoaged skin for 12 weeks increased density and thickness while reducing laxity and wrinkles in 71 women. Another randomized trial showed a 31.6% reduction in wrinkle volume compared to controls.
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For hair, in vitro studies indicate increased follicle stimulation and growth factors.
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Recent animal research in 2025 explored its role in colitis, showing mucosal healing and reduced inflammation.
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While more human trials on injectable forms are ongoing, its safety profile remains strong.
GHK-Cu may be beneficial for:
 Individuals with fine lines, wrinkles, uneven skin tone, or decreased skin firmness and density.
Individuals experiencing hair thinning or hair loss, or those looking to improve overall scalp vitality. GHK-Cu is a core component of our hair restoration program — often combined with Alma TED, red-light laser therapy, and prescription medications for a personalized multimodal approach that addresses both follicle health and root causes.
People with inflammatory skin conditions such as acne, rosacea, or eczema looking to reduce redness and inflammation.
Patients recovering from surgery or injury, or those wanting to reduce downtime after aesthetic skin treatments such as laser resurfacing.
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At MD Total Wellness, we’ll assess your individual needs to determine whether GHK-Cu is right for your goals. Schedule a consultation to find out.
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GHK-Cu is administered via subcutaneous injection for optimal absorption and systemic effect.
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Typical dosing: 1-2mg daily, 5 days per week. Long-term use requires periodic blood tests to monitor copper levels.
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Pricing: see our peptide pricing page.Â
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We offer GHK-Cu sourced from licensed compounding pharmacies.Â
When used under medical supervision, injectable GHK-Cu is well-tolerated with a strong safety profile. Possible side effects are typically mild and temporary, including injection site reactions, occasional headaches, nausea, or lightheadedness, and a metallic taste in the mouth.
Rare risks include copper sensitivity or toxicity with prolonged use — which is why we monitor copper levels with periodic blood tests. Contraindications include copper metabolism disorders (such as Wilson’s disease), pregnancy, breastfeeding, or active infections.
All peptides at MDTW are sourced from licensed compounding pharmacies based in the USA.
Disclaimer: All information on this page is for education only. Injectable peptides like GHK-Cu are not FDA approved.
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