Common Name(s): Copper palmitoyl heptapeptide-14,copper palmitoyl heptapeptide-14,copper peptide complex,ghk-cu analogue anti-aging
CAS Number: N/a
DESCRIPTION
What It Does: Activates cu/zn-sod1 antioxidant enzyme, stimulates lysyl oxidase for collagen and elastin fibre cross-linking, and promotes wound healing through copper-mediated growth factor signalling — the combined anti-aging wound healing mechanism of the ghk-cu copper peptide family.
Why It's Used: Copper peptides provide the dual benefit of peptide sequence receptor pharmacology plus copper ion co-factor delivery — the peptide anchors copper to the target tissue while the cu²⁺ activates the metalloproteins responsible for matrix remodelling.
How It Works: Cu²⁺ chelation by the peptide's imidazole-amine coordination provides controlled cu²⁺ release. free cu²⁺ → sod-1 activation (o₂•⁻ → h₂o₂ dismutation); lysyl oxidase activation (collagen lys cross-linking → pyridinium crosslinks → fibrillar collagen strength); angiogenesis stimulation (vegf upregulation). peptide sequence provides receptor-mediated col1a1 upregulation.
Typically Found In: Premium anti-aging,wound healing
TECHNICAL DETAILS
Primary Category: Active ingredient – peptide
Secondary Functions: Collagen synthesis,anti-aging
Application Areas:
Facial Skincare
Body Care
Hair Care
Beard Care
Color Cosmetics (Makeup)
Dietary/Oral Supplements
Typical Concentration Range: 1–5000 ppm
SOURCING & ETHICS
Vegan Status: Yes
Halal Status: Yes
Source Notes: Synthetically produced via solid-phase peptide synthesis (spps).
SKIN COMPATIBILITY
Irritancy Rating: 1/5 – very low
Comedogenicity Rating: 0/5 – non-comedogenic
Sensitivity Concerns: Non-irritating at recommended concentrations.
Safe for Sensitive Skin: Yes
SAFETY & COMPATIBILITY
Safety Profile: Excellent safety profile. ewg score: 1.
Works Well With: Retinoids,niacinamide,vitamin c,hyaluronic acid
Avoid Combining With: Strong acids below ph 3.5; oxidising agents
SCIENTIFIC NOTE
Ghk-cu (gly-his-lys-cu) is the benchmark copper peptide — alternative copper peptide conjugates (palmitoyl, lysinate, prolinate) provide the same cu²⁺ delivery mechanism with different sc penetration profiles based on lipophilicity modification.
Last Verified: 2026-03-22
Primary Sources: Cosing database,copper palmitoyl heptapeptide-14 copper peptide ghk-cu anti-aging review