GHK-Cu Products
GHK-Cu Products
Copper tripeptide-1 formulations for skin and hair. Clinically studied concentrations without Vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, or other diluting ingredients.
Why GHK-Cu Products Matter
Research published by the National Institutes of Health studied GHK-Cu (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine copper) as a copper tripeptide-1 complex. The research describes this naturally occurring copper peptide and its role in tissue remodeling, wound healing processes, and various biological activities when applied topically.
Many GHK-Cu products dilute their active ingredient with Vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, or hydroxy acids. While these ingredients serve purposes in skincare, they reduce the concentration of what the NIH research actually studied: pure copper tripeptide-1. PLU Laboratories focuses exclusively on clinically studied GHK-Cu concentrations, delivering the molecule researchers examined without unnecessary additives.
Understanding GHK-Cu as a Copper Tripeptide
The GHK-Cu Molecule
GHK-Cu is a tripeptide composed of three amino acids (glycine, histidine, and lysine) complexed with a copper ion. According to NIH research, this specific structure has been studied for its interactions with various biological processes.
Topical Application Research
The NIH literature describes GHK-Cu in topical applications, noting its role in tissue remodeling and wound healing processes. Our GHK-Cu products use concentrations referenced in this published research for cosmetic use on skin and scalp.
Why We Exclude Other Actives
Adding Vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, or hydroxy acids wasn't part of the research protocols that studied GHK-Cu. We keep our formulations focused on the copper tripeptide-1 molecule that clinical literature actually examined.
Why Our GHK-Cu Products Don't Include Vitamin C or Hyaluronic Acid
Many skincare brands combine GHK-Cu with Vitamin C products, hyaluronic acid, or hydroxy acids in the same formulation. The logic seems simple: if each ingredient is beneficial, combining them must be better. However, this approach dilutes the copper tripeptide-1 concentration and introduces ingredients that weren't part of the clinical research on GHK-Cu.
The NIH research on GHK-Cu examined the copper peptide as a focused active ingredient. Our GHK-Cu products follow this approach, delivering clinically studied concentrations without dilution. If you want to use Vitamin C or hyaluronic acid, you can layer them separately, maintaining the integrity of each active ingredient.
Our GHK-Cu Formulation Standards
Pure Copper Tripeptide-1
Our GHK-Cu products use copper peptide concentrations referenced in NIH-published research. No dilution with Vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, or other actives that reduce the copper tripeptide-1 concentration studied in clinical literature.
Complementary Amino Acids Only
We combine GHK-Cu with additional peptides studied for their own roles in skin and hair appearance (Matrixyl 3000, acetyl tetrapeptide-3). These amino acids complement copper peptides without diluting the core active ingredient.
Compatible Across Skin Types
The streamlined formulations work across various skin types without the sensitivity issues that can occur when combining multiple actives like Vitamin C and hydroxy acids with copper peptides in a single product.
Our GHK-Cu Product Line
Face Tonic (GHK-Cu for Skin)
Pure copper tripeptide-1 combined with Matrixyl 3000 peptide complex for skin appearance. The NIH research describes GHK-Cu's role in tissue processes that may affect how skin looks. Designed to support the appearance of skin elasticity and texture.
Hair Tonic (GHK-Cu for Hair)
GHK-Cu combined with acetyl tetrapeptide-3 for scalp application. Research suggests copper peptides may support the appearance of hair density. Our formulation delivers pure copper tripeptide-1 directly to hair follicles.
Both GHK-Cu products can be used together as a complete system. Total daily application time: under one minute. Layer other products like Vitamin C or hyaluronic acid separately if desired.
What to Expect From Pure GHK-Cu Products
- Weeks 1-2: Skin and scalp feel healthier, improved overall appearance
- Weeks 3-4: Visible improvements in skin texture, hair looks fuller
- Weeks 6-8: Notable improvements in skin elasticity appearance and hair density
- Weeks 8+: Continued support for skin and hair appearance with consistent GHK-Cu application
Individual results may vary. These are cosmetic products designed to support appearance benefits, not FDA-approved drugs.
Common Questions About GHK-Cu Products
Does GHK-Cu build collagen?
PLU Laboratories sells cosmetic products, not FDA-approved drugs, so we cannot make claims about building collagen or affecting the body's structure or function. However, the NIH research on GHK-Cu describes this copper tripeptide's role in tissue remodeling processes and wound healing. The research notes various biological activities that researchers observed. Our GHK-Cu products use concentrations referenced in this published literature for cosmetic use.
Can I use GHK-Cu products with Vitamin C or hyaluronic acid?
Yes, but we recommend using them separately rather than in the same formulation. Apply our GHK-Cu products (Face Tonic or Hair Tonic) first to clean skin or scalp, then layer Vitamin C products or hyaluronic acid over them if desired. This approach maintains the pure copper tripeptide-1 concentration studied in research while still allowing you to use other actives in your routine.
What makes GHK-Cu different from other copper peptides?
GHK-Cu (copper tripeptide-1) is a specific molecule composed of three amino acids (glycine, histidine, lysine) complexed with a copper ion. The NIH research examined this specific copper peptide structure. Other copper peptides exist, but GHK-Cu is the most extensively studied in published literature for topical applications on skin and hair.
Are GHK-Cu products safe for all skin types?
Our pure GHK-Cu formulations are designed to be compatible with various skin types. By excluding potentially irritating ingredients like hydroxy acids and high concentrations of Vitamin C from the same formulation, we minimize sensitivity concerns. The NIH research notes that copper tripeptide-1 has been studied across different topical applications. However, if you have specific skin health concerns, consult with a dermatologist.
How long does it take to see results from GHK-Cu products?
Most users report visible improvements in skin texture and hair appearance within 6-8 weeks of consistent daily use. The NIH research suggests that copper tripeptide-1 works gradually through various biological processes. For optimal appearance benefits, apply Face Tonic to skin or Hair Tonic to scalp once daily. Consistent application of pure GHK-Cu supports best results.
Why don't you combine GHK-Cu with hydroxy acids or Vitamin C in the same product?
The NIH research examined GHK-Cu as a focused copper tripeptide-1 complex, not as part of a blend with Vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, or hydroxy acids. Adding these ingredients reduces the copper peptide concentration and introduces variables not present in the clinical studies. Our GHK-Cu products maintain the purity and concentration that research actually examined, allowing you to add other actives separately if desired.
Is GHK-Cu an FDA-approved drug?
No. PLU Laboratories' GHK-Cu products are cosmetics intended for cosmetic use only. We are not an FDA-approved drug product and do not make drug claims about treating, preventing, or curing any condition. The NIH research we reference studied copper tripeptide-1 in various contexts, but our products are formulated and marketed as cosmetics designed to support the appearance of skin and hair.
What does the NIH research say about GHK-Cu?
The NIH-published research on GHK-Cu describes this copper tripeptide-1 as a naturally occurring copper complex studied in tissue remodeling, wound healing processes, and various biological activities. The research notes its interactions with different cell types and biological processes. Our GHK-Cu products use concentrations referenced in this clinical literature for topical cosmetic use.