GHK-Cu is a copper-bound tripeptide (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine) used in skincare to support the look of firmness, elasticity and an even, repaired-looking skin barrier.
- INCI name
- Copper Tripeptide-1
- Also called
- Copper peptide, Copper Tripeptide-1, GHK copper
- Category
- Copper peptide
- In these formulas
- Glow Getter, Blue Me Away, Butter Me Up, Grow With The Flo
What is GHK-Cu?
- GHK is a naturally occurring three amino-acid sequence found in human plasma; concentrations in skin decline with age.
- Bound to copper it becomes GHK-Cu, the blue-tinted copper peptide responsible for the signature colour of copper-peptide serums.
- Glo Key uses a 1% GHK-Cu complex in Blue Me Away, at a pH of 5.5–6.0 to keep the complex stable.
What does the research cover?
- One of the most-studied cosmetic peptides, with published work spanning skin-firmness, barrier-support and post-procedure comfort endpoints.
- Cosmetic studies typically report visible change over 8–12 weeks of twice-daily use rather than days.
- Copper is an essential trace element in the enzymes involved in the skin's own structural protein synthesis.
Who is GHK-Cu best for?
- Skin that looks slack, crepey or thinner around the eyes and jaw
- A barrier that feels reactive, tight or easily flushed
- Post-treatment skin, once your clinician has cleared active skincare
How do you use GHK-Cu?
- Apply 3–4 drops to clean, dry skin morning and night, before moisturiser.
- Press it in rather than dragging — copper peptides absorb quickly.
- Give it a full 12 weeks of consistency before judging results.
What does it pair with?
- Niacinamide
- Sodium Hyaluronate
- Panthenol
- Beta-glucan
- PDRN
What should you avoid layering with it?
- Pure L-ascorbic acid (vitamin C) in the same layer — the two destabilise each other. Use vitamin C in the morning and GHK-Cu at night.
- Strong direct acids (high-strength AHA/BHA) applied at the same time.
GHK-Cu questions
Can you use GHK-Cu with vitamin C?
Not in the same layer. L-ascorbic acid and copper peptides destabilise one another, so use vitamin C in the morning and GHK-Cu at night, or alternate days.
How long does GHK-Cu take to work?
Expect early changes in hydration and texture at 2–4 weeks, with firmness and tone typically looking different around 8–12 weeks of consistent twice-daily use.
Is GHK-Cu safe for sensitive skin?
Blue Me Away is dermatologist-tested and formulated fragrance-, dye-, silicone- and paraben-free for reactive skin. Patch test 24 hours before first use.
