Researched by Helena DeMaria-Williams
Formula IngredientCell-Communicating IngredientCopper Tripeptide-1
INCI: Copper Tripeptide-1
Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu) is a naturally occurring copper complex formed from the tripeptide GHK (glycine-histidine-lysine) bound to a copper(II) ion. It is found endogenously in human plasma, saliva, and urine, with concentrations declining significantly with age. It works by stimulating fibroblasts to produce collagen, elastin, proteoglycans, and glycosaminoglycans, while simultaneously breaking down damaged or overly cross-linked scar tissue collagen — effectively remodelling the extracellular matrix. It also activates antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase and exerts anti-inflammatory effects through gene regulation.
Category
Cell-Communicating Ingredient
Irritation Risk
Low
Skin Types
all skin types, anti-ageing, mature skin, acne scarring, dull skin, loss of firmness
What does this do in a formula?
collagen stimulation, elastin synthesis, wound healing, skin firming, fine line reduction, antioxidant protection, anti-inflammatory, skin remodelling, glycosaminoglycan synthesis, scar improvement
Is Copper Tripeptide-1 safe? Key considerations
Can Copper Tripeptide-1 cause irritation?
Low RiskCopper Tripeptide-1 is well tolerated across skin types. Decades of use in cosmetic formulations have not produced reports of significant adverse effects. No EU CosIng Annex II (banned) or Annex III (restricted) status applies. A small subset of users report increased facial hair growth with prolonged use of high-concentration leave-on products, though this is uncommon. Excessive use at very high concentrations is theoretically linked to free radical generation via excess copper, but this has not been documented in standard cosmetic use.
Does Copper Tripeptide-1 increase sun sensitivity?
No RiskCopper Tripeptide-1 does not have exfoliating or photosensitising properties. No special sun protection precautions are required based solely on its presence in a formulation.
Is Copper Tripeptide-1 safe during pregnancy?
CautionNo specific human pregnancy safety data is available for Copper Tripeptide-1. While copper is an essential trace mineral and topical absorption of peptides is generally considered low, the ingredient is understudied in pregnancy contexts. As a precaution, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider before using copper peptide-containing products during pregnancy. (MANUAL REVIEW: single-source caution based on absence of formal pregnancy safety data rather than identified risk.)
How does Copper Tripeptide-1 work?
Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu) is a naturally occurring copper complex formed from the tripeptide GHK (glycine-histidine-lysine) bound to a copper(II) ion. It is found endogenously in human plasma, saliva, and urine, with concentrations declining significantly with age. It works by stimulating fibroblasts to produce collagen, elastin, proteoglycans, and glycosaminoglycans, while simultaneously breaking down damaged or overly cross-linked scar tissue collagen — effectively remodelling the extracellular matrix. It also activates antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase and exerts anti-inflammatory effects through gene regulation.
Individuals with known copper sensitivity or Wilson's disease (copper metabolism disorder); caution with very high-concentration leave-on products if prone to facial hair growth should review the considerations above before use.
Which products contain Copper Tripeptide-1?
Shop products that contain Copper Tripeptide-1
