• Michael Carroll - Jan 3

GHK-Cu Dosing Guidelines

Effective Date: January 2025

Important Notice: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always talk to your doctor before starting or changing any medication.

1. What is GHK-Cu?

GHK-Cu (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine copper) is a naturally occurring copper peptide found in human plasma, saliva, and urine. It's a small tripeptide that binds with copper to support tissue repair, skin health, and anti-aging processes throughout the body.

2. When is GHK-Cu Used?

  • Skin Health & Anti-Aging:
    • Reduces wrinkles and fine lines.
    • Improves skin elasticity and firmness.
    • Enhances overall skin clarity and appearance.
  • Wound Healing & Tissue Repair:
    • Accelerates healing of cuts, wounds, and scars.
    • Supports post-surgical recovery.
    • Reduces inflammation in damaged tissues.
  • Hair Growth:
    • Stimulates hair follicle activity.
    • Increases hair thickness and reduces hair loss.
    • Improves scalp health and circulation.

3. How to Take GHK-Cu

A. For Injectable Administration

Starting Dose:

  • 1 mg injected subcutaneously once daily.
    • Note: This initial dose allows your body to adjust and assess tolerance.

Standard Dosing Protocol:

  • 1-2 mg once daily via subcutaneous injection.
  • Some protocols use up to 5 mg daily for specific therapeutic purposes.
  • Can be split into two doses (morning and evening) if preferred.

Regular Dose:

  • 1-2 mg daily for general anti-aging and tissue repair.
  • 2-5 mg daily for enhanced wound healing or acute recovery needs.
  • Maximum recommended dose is 5 mg daily.

How to Inject:

  • Inject subcutaneously (under the skin) in fatty areas like the abdomen or thigh.
  • Rotate injection sites daily to prevent irritation.
  • Use the same time each day for consistency (morning or evening).
  • Can be administered 3-5 times per week for maintenance protocols.

B. For Topical Application

Cream/Serum Formulation:

  • Apply products containing 0.1-1.0% GHK-Cu concentration.
  • Use once or twice daily on clean, dry skin.
  • Apply to face, neck, or specific treatment areas.

Scalp Application for Hair:

  • Apply 2-3 pumps of GHK-Cu foam or solution to scalp nightly.
  • Massage gently to improve absorption and circulation.
  • Concentration typically ranges from 0.05-0.5%.

4. Special Considerations

  • Age-Related Decline:
    • Natural GHK levels decline from ~200 ng/mL at age 20 to ~80 ng/mL by age 60.
    • Supplementation may be more beneficial for older adults.
  • Copper Sensitivity:
    • Use cautiously if you have copper metabolism disorders.
    • Not recommended for those with Wilson's disease.
  • Combination Protocols:
    • Often combined with other peptides like BPC-157 or TB-500.
    • Can be used alongside microneedling or PRP treatments.
  • Storage Requirements:
    • Store reconstituted vials in the refrigerator.
    • Use within 30 days of reconstitution.
    • Keep unreconstituted vials in a cool, dry place.

5. Who Should Not Take GHK-Cu & Safety Tips

  • Do Not Use If:
    • You have Wilson's disease or copper metabolism disorders.
    • You're allergic to any components of the formulation.
    • You have active skin infections at injection sites.
  • Use Carefully If:
    • You're pregnant or breastfeeding (consult your doctor).
    • You have sensitive skin or conditions like rosacea or eczema.
    • You're taking high-dose vitamin C supplements (may interfere with copper binding).

6. Possible Side Effects

Common Side Effects:

  • Mild redness or irritation at injection site
  • Temporary itching (topical application)
  • Minor bruising at injection sites
  • Slight skin sensitivity

Rare Side Effects:

  • Mild headache
  • Temporary nausea
  • Allergic reactions (very rare)
  • Skin dermatitis (with topical use)

7. What to Monitor

  • For Skin Applications:
    • Take before/after photos to track improvements.
    • Monitor for skin irritation or sensitivity.
    • Note changes in wrinkle depth and skin texture.
  • For Hair Growth:
    • Document hair density and thickness changes.
    • Track new hair growth patterns.
    • Monitor scalp health and any irritation.
  • For Wound Healing:
    • Photograph healing progress regularly.
    • Watch for signs of infection.
    • Note healing speed compared to baseline.

8. Storing GHK-Cu

  • Keep unreconstituted powder at room temperature away from light.
  • Once reconstituted with bacteriostatic water, store in refrigerator.
  • Use reconstituted solution within 30 days.
  • Protect from direct sunlight and heat.
  • Do not freeze the solution.

9. Patient Education

Helping you understand how to use GHK-Cu properly is key to your success. Here's what you need to know:

A. How to Reconstitute and Inject GHK-Cu Correctly

  • Before You Start:
    • Check the vial for any damage or discoloration.
    • Ensure you have bacteriostatic water for reconstitution.
    • Have alcohol wipes and insulin syringes ready.
  • Steps to Reconstitute:
    1. Clean the vial top with an alcohol wipe.
    2. Add 1-2 mL of bacteriostatic water to a 50 mg vial (creates 25-50 mg/mL concentration).
    3. Gently swirl the vial - don't shake vigorously.
    4. Let the solution sit for a few minutes to fully dissolve.
  • Steps to Inject:
    1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
    2. Draw the appropriate dose into an insulin syringe.
    3. Clean the injection site with an alcohol wipe and let it dry.
    4. Pinch a fold of skin and insert the needle at a 45-90 degree angle.
    5. Inject slowly and steadily.
    6. Remove the needle and apply gentle pressure if needed.
  • Injection Site Rotation:
    • Alternate between different areas of the abdomen and thighs.
    • Keep a log of injection sites to ensure proper rotation.
    • Avoid areas with scars, bruises, or skin irritation.

B. Why It's Important to Stick to Your Schedule

  • Be Consistent:
    • Use GHK-Cu at the same time each day for optimal results.
    • Consistency helps maintain stable peptide levels.
  • Cycle Duration:
    • Typical cycles run 4-6 weeks.
    • Take a 2-4 week break between cycles if using continuously.
    • Some use it as needed for specific healing purposes.
  • Set Reminders:
    • Use phone alarms or calendar reminders.
    • Keep a treatment log to track doses and progress.

C. Understanding Side Effects and When to Get Help

  • Common Reactions:
    • Mild redness at injection sites usually resolves within hours.
    • Initial skin sensitivity with topical use often improves with continued use.
  • Managing Side Effects:
    • Apply ice to injection sites if irritated.
    • Reduce dose if experiencing persistent side effects.
    • Switch to every-other-day dosing if needed.
  • When to Seek Help:
    • Severe allergic reactions (rare but serious).
    • Persistent nausea or headaches.
    • Signs of infection at injection sites.
    • Unusual skin reactions that worsen over time.

D. Making Lifestyle Changes to Boost Results

  • Skin Health Support:
    • Use quality moisturizers and sunscreen daily.
    • Stay hydrated - aim for 8 glasses of water daily.
    • Include foods rich in vitamin C and zinc.
  • Hair Growth Enhancement:
    • Gentle scalp massage improves circulation.
    • Use sulfate-free shampoos.
    • Consider biotin and collagen supplements.
  • General Health:
    • Get 7-9 hours of quality sleep.
    • Manage stress through meditation or exercise.
    • Eat a diet rich in antioxidants and protein.
  • Complementary Treatments:
    • Consider combining with microneedling for enhanced skin results.
    • PRP treatments can work synergistically with GHK-Cu.
    • Red light therapy may enhance benefits.

E. Keep Up with Progress Tracking

  • Documentation:
    • Take weekly photos in consistent lighting.
    • Keep a journal of improvements and any side effects.
    • Note changes in energy levels and overall wellbeing.
  • Regular Assessments:
    • Evaluate progress every 2 weeks.
    • Adjust dosing based on results and tolerance.
    • Consider blood work if using long-term.
  • Communication:
    • Share progress with your healthcare provider.
    • Report any concerns promptly.
    • Discuss optimal cycle length for your goals.

Disclaimer: Always talk to your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your situation.