Peptide Library / Detail
GHK Basic
Half-life
Less than 1 hour in circulation
Delivery
Topical application or subcutaneous injection
Dosage
—
Research Use Only
All products listed are for laboratory research only — not for human consumption. By browsing, you acknowledge these terms.
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Description
GHK (Gly-His-Lys) is a naturally occurring tripeptide found in human plasma, saliva, and urine that declines with age. It is a copper-binding peptide known for its regenerative and protective properties in skin and tissue repair. GHK has been extensively studied for its role in wound healing, collagen synthesis, and anti-aging applications.
Usage
Research protocols typically involve topical application at concentrations of 0.05-2% in cosmetic formulations, or subcutaneous injection at doses of 1-3 mg per session, 2-3 times weekly. When used systemically, cycles of 4-8 weeks are common with periodic breaks. Topical application is generally performed once or twice daily.
Mechanism of Action
GHK functions by binding copper ions and modulating gene expression related to tissue remodeling and repair. It stimulates collagen and glycosaminoglycan synthesis while promoting angiogenesis and nerve outgrowth. The peptide also demonstrates anti-inflammatory effects by modulating metalloproteinase activity and enhancing antioxidant enzymes, while resetting genes to a more youthful state.
Benefits(8)
- Promotes collagen and elastin production in skin tissue
- Enhances wound healing and tissue repair processes
- Reduces appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
- Improves skin firmness, elasticity, and thickness
- Supports hair growth and follicle health
- Demonstrates anti-inflammatory properties
- Increases antioxidant enzyme activity
- May improve skin clarity and reduce hyperpigmentation
Side Effects(6)
- Mild injection site reactions (redness, swelling)
- Temporary skin irritation with topical application
- Possible metallic taste if administered systemically
- Rare allergic reactions or sensitivity
- Potential copper accumulation with excessive use
- Mild headache in some users
GHK Basic — frequently asked questions
What is GHK Basic?
GHK (Gly-His-Lys) is a naturally occurring tripeptide found in human plasma, saliva, and urine that declines with age. It is a copper-binding peptide known for its regenerative and protective properties in skin and tissue repair. GHK has been extensively studied for its role in wound healing, collagen synthesis, and anti-aging applications.
What is the half-life of GHK Basic?
GHK Basic has an approximate half-life of Less than 1 hour in circulation. The half-life determines how often you need to inject to maintain steady blood levels — use the Peptides Calculator half-life calculator to plot your specific dosing schedule and see the decay curve.
How is GHK Basic administered?
GHK Basic is typically delivered via topical application or subcutaneous injection. The Peptides Calculator app helps you reconstitute the vial with bacteriostatic water, calculate your exact dose in syringe units, and track each injection.
How does GHK Basic work?
GHK functions by binding copper ions and modulating gene expression related to tissue remodeling and repair. It stimulates collagen and glycosaminoglycan synthesis while promoting angiogenesis and nerve outgrowth. The peptide also demonstrates anti-inflammatory effects by modulating metalloproteinase activity and enhancing antioxidant enzymes, while resetting genes to a more youthful state.
What are the researched benefits of GHK Basic?
Studied benefits of GHK Basic include: Promotes collagen and elastin production in skin tissue, Enhances wound healing and tissue repair processes, Reduces appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, Improves skin firmness, elasticity, and thickness, Supports hair growth and follicle health, Demonstrates anti-inflammatory properties, Increases antioxidant enzyme activity, May improve skin clarity and reduce hyperpigmentation. These are research findings only — Peptides Calculator does not provide medical advice; consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any peptide protocol.
What are the side effects of GHK Basic?
Reported side effects of GHK Basic include: Mild injection site reactions (redness, swelling), Temporary skin irritation with topical application, Possible metallic taste if administered systemically, Rare allergic reactions or sensitivity, Potential copper accumulation with excessive use, Mild headache in some users. Always discuss potential side effects with a licensed healthcare provider before using any research peptide.
Related peptides
Other skin/hair compounds in the Peptides Calculator library.
AHK-Cu
Half-life · Not well-characterized; topical applications show local tissue retention
Pal-AHK
Half-life · Not well established; topical formulations typically remain active for 8-12 hours
Syn-Coll
Half-life · Not applicable for topical application; cellular effects persist 24-48 hours
Tripeptide-29
Half-life · Approximately 4-6 hours when applied topically, with variable absorption dependent on formulation vehicle and skin condition
Nonapeptide-1
Half-life · Not applicable for topical application
Matrixyl
Half-life · Varies by formulation; topical application provides sustained release over several hours