FAQ

What is GHK-Cu?

GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring copper-binding peptide made from three amino acids: glycine, histidine, and lysine. It is naturally present in the human body and has become a highly sought-after ingredient in advanced skincare.

In cosmetic formulas, GHK-Cu is valued for its skin-conditioning and age-supporting properties. It is commonly used in skincare products designed to improve the appearance of skin firmness, elasticity, texture, and overall radiance.

GHK-Cu is recognizable by its naturally rich blue color, which comes from the copper bound to the GHK peptide.

At GHK Cu Cosmetics, GHK-Cu is the signature ingredient behind our CU Forever Radiant formulas. Our goal is simple: create focused, high-quality skincare built around this remarkable copper peptide without burying it beneath an unnecessarily complicated formula.

What is AHK-Cu and how does it differ from GHK-Cu?

AHK-Cu is the main ingredient in our advanced scalp and hair products.

AHK-Cu is a copper-binding peptide made from three amino acids: alanine, histidine, and lysine. When the peptide binds with copper, it forms the copper peptide known as AHK-Cu.

AHK-Cu and GHK-Cu are closely related copper peptides, but they are not the same molecule. GHK-Cu is composed of glycine, histidine, and lysine, while AHK-Cu is composed of alanine, histidine, and lysine. The key difference is the first amino acid: GHK-Cu begins with glycine, while AHK-Cu begins with alanine.

Although this may seem like a small difference, changing even one amino acid changes the structure of a peptide and can affect its properties and interactions.

GHK-Cu has a larger body of published research and is particularly well known for its use in advanced skincare and age-supporting cosmetic formulations. It is commonly incorporated into products designed to improve the appearance of skin firmness, elasticity, texture, fine lines, and overall radiance.

AHK-Cu has attracted particular interest for use in advanced scalp and hair-care formulations. In cosmetic products, it can be used to condition the scalp and support the appearance of healthier, fuller-looking hair.

Simply put: GHK-Cu is particularly well established in advanced skincare, while AHK-Cu has become an ingredient of interest for advanced scalp and hair care. Both are copper peptides, but their different amino-acid structures give each its own identity and cosmetic applications.