Compare Peptides
Select any two compounds for a side-by-side comparison of mechanism, uses, risks, and FDA regulatory status.
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GHK-Cu
Copper Peptide, Glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine:copper(II)
A lipopeptide consisting of palmitic acid linked to the GHK tripeptide sequence. Designed for topical use to stimulate collagen synthesis and skin repair. Often combined with Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 in the commercial product Matrixyl 3000.
A naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide found in human plasma, saliva, and urine. Levels decline significantly with age. Widely used in both injectable and topical forms for anti-aging.
Mimics the skin's natural collagen-fragment signaling. When collagen breaks down, GHK fragments signal fibroblasts to produce new collagen. Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 amplifies this signal, promoting collagen I, III, and IV synthesis. The palmitic acid tail enhances skin penetration.
Activates wound healing genes, promotes collagen and elastin synthesis, stimulates blood vessel growth, and has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The copper ion is essential for many enzymatic processes in tissue remodeling.
- Anti-aging skincare
- Collagen stimulation
- Wrinkle reduction
- Skin firmness
- Scar healing support
- Skin rejuvenation and anti-aging
- Wound healing
- Hair growth stimulation
- Collagen production
- Reducing inflammation
- Generally well-tolerated topically
- Rare skin irritation
- Efficacy varies by formulation concentration
- No injectable safety data
- Generally well-tolerated topically
- Injectable form has less safety data
- Potential copper toxicity at high doses
- Skin irritation possible with topical use
Cosmetic ingredient. Not FDA-regulated as a drug. Widely available in skincare products without prescription.
GHK-Cu has a notably complex status after the April 15, 2026 FDA announcement. Injectable GHK-Cu is being removed from Category 2 (significant safety risks), while non-injectable GHK-Cu is simultaneously being removed from Category 1 (active evaluation). Both forms are scheduled for a unified PCAC review before February 2027. Topical cosmetic use is unaffected. Injectable use is now in regulatory gray zone — compounding pharmacies should not assume authorization until PCAC acts.
PCAC: By February 2027
- Topical peptides as cosmeceuticals
2018 · PubMed
This comparison is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any peptide therapy.