Copper peptides (GHK-Cu) are touted as a "slow-aging" ingredient in many skincare products. The compound has an affinity to skin cells and supports natural collagen and elastin production, which helps to maintain firmness and an even complexion. Although rare, some people can experience mild irritation like itching, redness, and rashes when introducing GHK-Cu products to their skin.
And while GHK-Cu is FDA-approved for topical use in creams, serums, and lotions, some experimental uses — like taking GHK-Cu internally — have sparked curiosity and caution. When taken internally, GHK-Cu may have more severe side effects, from skin irritation to headaches and nausea.
Types of GHK-Cu Products
When thinking about trying GHK-Cu, you should know that how you use it can change how it works and its effects.
Some types, like creams, are meant for the skin, while others are experimental, like taking it internally. These methods work differently in the body and can have benefits and risks.
Topical GHK-Cu Products
Topical GHK-Cu products like serums and creams are the most common way to use GHK-Cu. These products are designed to help with skin concerns like making your skin look smoother, more hydrated, and firmer, and some people might even use them to improve the appearance of scars and encourage healthy hair growth by nourishing the scalp.
You can buy them from trusted skincare brands, including our Neurogan Health collection. They're relatively safe and easy to use to improve your skin at home without any needles or complicated treatments.
Injectable GHK-Cu
Some people experiment with injecting GHK-Cu directly into their body. This method is not FDA-approved and can be risky. While some believe it might offer health benefits, there isn’t enough research to prove it’s safe or effective. We recommend sticking to topical options, which are much safer.
Internal Supplements
A few people try taking GHK-Cu as a pill or powder, hoping for benefits beyond skincare.
However, this method is not FDA-approved and hasn’t been studied enough to know if it works or is safe. It’s hard to find these products, and they may carry risks that aren’t fully understood yet.
Side Effects of GHK-Cu
Using GHK-Cu is usually safe, but some side effects can happen:
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Skin Irritation: Some people might feel itchy, see redness, or have mild stinging after using GHK-Cu products. If this happens, stop using the product.
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Mixing Issues: GHK-Cu doesn’t always work well with other skincare ingredients like Retin-A, acids, or vitamin C.These combinations might make your skin react badly or reduce the product’s effectiveness.
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Long-Term Effects: Since GHK-Cu is still a new ingredient, scientists don’t know all the long-term effects yet. Always do a patch test before trying a new product.
How To Do A Patch Test
Put a small amount of the product on your wrist or behind your ear. Wait 24-48 hours. If your skin gets red or itchy, don’t use the product.
Doing a patch test helps you see if a product will irritate your skin before you use it all over, especially in delicate areas like your face.
This is especially important for new products, as even gentle ones can sometimes cause redness or itching for certain people. It might come across as tedious, but it's a simple way to avoid an uncomfortable reaction and determine if the product works well with your skin type.
What People Say About GHK-Cu
Many people who have introduced GHK-Cu into their skincare regimen have found that it makes their skin feel softer, smoother, and more hydrated without overly irritating.
Reviews:
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A few drops smoothed onto a wet face after exfoliation improves skin firmness, leaving a soft gloss. I was surprised to discover that when applied to brow bone, it actually looks like I’ve had an upper bleph – by tightening up creased, drooping eyelids.
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I’ve used the ghk-cu serum for the last 3 weeks, as directed. I continued my normal hair products and have noticed that my hair shedding has decreased.
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It makes my skin so soft and I could see a difference in the quality of my skin.
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This peptide hair and scalp serum has been highly effective in improving the condition of my dry scalp and hair. It provides noticeable hydration and revitalization. A great product for enhancing both scalp and hair health.
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I should’ve done a patch test, but this product made me break out in irritation bumps overnight.
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Skin line was more visible, and it made my skin dry as opposed to radiant.
One Reddit user who tried injecting GHK-Cu reported side effects like:
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Red and itchy skin on their hands and ankles
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Sore eyes
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Feeling foggy and tired
Again, we don’t recommend injecting copper peptides. Not only do you risk infection from needles, but it’s challenging to know you’ll react to the pure compound delivered directly into your bloodstream.
Be Safe When Using GHK-Cu
Most people have no issues when using GHK-Cu on the skin with serums or creams. In fact, it has many benefits for skin health when used consistently.
Other methods like injectables or pills are still experimental and aren't as well studied. I find topical products to be the safest and most effective option for adding GHK-Cu peptide into my routine. If you’re interested, check out the Neurogan Health collection for high-quality, affordable options.
We strongly encourage you to always test new products carefully and talk to a professional if you have concerns. Healthy skin is worth the effort.
