PLU Laboratories: Copper Peptide Skin & Hair Care | GHK-Cu

Everything you need, nothing you don't

Copper peptides for hair and skin. Third-party verified, not implied.

GHK-Cu, AHK-Cu, and Acetyl Tetrapeptide-3, each confirmed at 1% by an independent lab. Six ingredients or fewer in every bottle.

0 ingredients, maxEverything you need, nothing you don't

0+ peptide actives per bottleVerified by LC-MS, at or above label

0/5 verified review averageFrom verified customers

0s once-a-day routineApply, absorb, done

Independently Tested

Third-Party Lab Verified

Every formula is tested by the Mass Spectrometry Core at the University of Illinois at Chicago. Actives verified by LC-MS in the finished bottle, at or above label claim. Heavy metals screened by ICP-MS. Reports published.

Concentration (LC-MS) Purity Heavy Metals (ICP-MS)

See latest test results

6 Ingredients or LessEverything You Need, Nothing You Don't

Ingredient transparency

You care about what goes in your body. What about on it?

Simple formulas. No compromises.

6

GHK-Cu Face Tonic

Three peptide actives, and three ingredients to carry them and keep them stable.

The three that do the work

• 1%Peptide active

  GHK-Cu Copper Tripeptide-1

  The copper peptide studied in skincare for decades, for the look of firmness. More on this Close

  The headline active, at a full 1%, with the concentration confirmed by an outside lab.

• Peptide active

  Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1

  A signal peptide, half of the Matrixyl 3000 pair, for the look of fine lines. More on this Close

  Matrixyl 3000 is the peptide duo used across premium anti-aging serums. This is the first half.

• Peptide active

  Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7

  The other half of the Matrixyl 3000 pair, for the look of skin texture. More on this Close

  It works alongside Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, which is why the two are always formulated together.

Plus three that carry them

• Water

  The base. Water based, so it feels like nothing on skin. More on this Close

  No oils and no silicones, which is why it absorbs in seconds and layers cleanly.

• Glycerin

  A humectant. It carries the peptides and helps skin hold on to moisture. More on this Close

  The workhorse hydrator in skincare, here to move the peptides and keep skin comfortable.

• Phenoxyethanol

  A gentle preservative, so what is in the bottle stays safe to use. More on this Close

  One preservative at a low level, the standard choice for water based cosmetics.

What is not in it

• No fragrance
• No dyes
• No essential oils
• No hormones
• No botanical extracts

GHK-Cu Hair Tonic

Two peptide actives at 1% each, and three ingredients to carry them and keep them stable.

The two that do the work

• 1%Peptide active

  GHK-Cu Copper Tripeptide-1

  The copper peptide studied in skincare for decades, here for the look of your scalp and hair. More on this Close

  It is the same peptide people buy for their face. We put it where the hair starts instead, at a full 1%, and the concentration is confirmed by an outside lab.

• 1%Peptide active

  Acetyl Tetrapeptide-3

  A biomimetic peptide, included for the appearance of hair density. More on this Close

  It sits at the same 1% as the GHK-Cu, so neither active is a dusting on the label.

Plus three that carry them

• Water

  The base. Water based, so nothing sits on the scalp. More on this Close

  No oils and no silicones, which is why it absorbs in seconds and leaves nothing to rinse out.

• Glycerin

  A humectant. It carries the peptides and helps the scalp hold on to moisture. More on this Close

  It is the reason two or three drops spread across the part without leaving a film on the hair.

• Phenoxyethanol

  A gentle preservative, so what is in the bottle stays safe to use. More on this Close

  One preservative at a low level, the standard choice for water based cosmetics.

What is not in it

• No fragrance
• No dyes
• No hormones
• No DHT-blocker gimmicks
• No botanical extracts

AHK-Cu Hair Tonic

Two peptide actives at 1% each, and three ingredients to carry them and keep them stable.

The two that do the work

• 1%Peptide active

  AHK-Cu Copper Tripeptide-3

  A copper peptide with an added alanine, for the look of scalp and hair. More on this Close

  Sits at a full 1%, the same concentration as the Acetyl Tetrapeptide-3 beside it, and the concentration is confirmed by an outside lab.

• 1%Peptide active

  Acetyl Tetrapeptide-3

  A biomimetic peptide, included for the appearance of hair density. More on this Close

  It sits at the same 1% as the AHK-Cu, so neither active is a dusting on the label.

Plus three that carry them

• Water

  The base. Water based, so nothing sits on the scalp. More on this Close

  No oils and no silicones, which is why it absorbs in seconds and leaves nothing to rinse out.

• Glycerin

  A humectant. It carries the peptides and helps the scalp hold on to moisture. More on this Close

  It is the reason two or three drops spread across the part without leaving a film on the hair.

• Phenoxyethanol

  A gentle preservative, so what is in the bottle stays safe to use. More on this Close

  One preservative at a low level, the standard choice for water based cosmetics.

What is not in it

• No fragrance
• No dyes
• No hormones
• No DHT-blocker gimmicks
• No botanical extracts

Best Seller

GHK-Cu Hair Tonic

Best forFuller-looking hair and scalp health

Concentration1% GHK-Cu, 1% Acetyl Tetrapeptide-3

RoutineUnder 30 seconds, once a day, leave in

$39.99 Discovery size

Shop Hair Tonic

On sale

GHK-Cu Face Tonic

Best forFine lines and skin firmness appearance

Concentration1% GHK-Cu, plus complementary palmitoyl peptides

RoutineUnder 30 seconds, morning and/or night

$24.99 Discovery size

Shop Face Tonic

New

AHK-Cu Hair Tonic

Best forTargeted support for hair density appearance

Concentration1% AHK-Cu, 1% Acetyl Tetrapeptide-3

RoutineUnder 30 seconds, once a day, leave in

$59.99 Discovery size

Shop AHK-Cu

20-second quiz

What are you here for?

Give it two months

Back to the version of you that you remember.

Results typically take about two months, and one full-size bottle covers it at the best price per mL. Sample first with the 10 mL Discovery if you'd rather. 30-day returns on both.

30-day returns, free return shipping Free shipping on orders $30+ 15% off subscriptions, cancel anytime

Face Tonic

★★★★★

"I've only been using this a week and I already see an improvement in my fine lines. It's rare to see noticeable change after that short time period with any product. I also started using it on my neck and the back of my hands. This stuff is amazing."

Hair Tonic

★★★★★

"I purchased the tonic to improve hair growth and to counteract thinning near the top of my head. Since then, I have visibly improved coverage, materially less shedding, and an excess of confidence. My old lady even noticed and questioned if my stylist had tried something new!!"

Face Tonic

★★★★★

"AWESOME. Only a week in. Skin looks younger and confidence is oozing. New level of aura unlocked."

Hair Tonic

★★★★★

"This hair tonic doesn't leave any residue or mess like minoxidil does. Even though I've only used it for about a month, I can already feel my hair getting healthier and fuller."

Six ingredients or fewer

Five ingredients in the Hair Tonic, six in the Face Tonic. Every one earns its place.

Tested in the finished bottle

Every active verified by LC-MS at the University of Illinois at Chicago, at or above label claim. Heavy metals screened by ICP-MS.

Read the lab reports

Made in the USA, 30-day returns

Formulated and produced domestically, backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Face Tonic

1

Cleanse Your Face

Start with clean, dry skin. Pat face dry after washing

2

Apply 2-3 Drops

Dispense onto fingertips. Gently massage into face, neck, and under eyes

3

Let Absorb

Wait 60 seconds before applying moisturizer or other products. Use morning and/or night

Hair Tonic

1

Part Your Hair

Work on dry or damp hair. Create sections to expose scalp

2

Apply 2-3 Drops Per Section

Dispense directly onto scalp. Use fingertips to massage into areas of concern

3

Leave In

Do not rinse. Style hair as usual. Use morning and/or night

1-2

Weeks 1-2

Skin feels smoother with improved texture and comfort

3-4

Weeks 3-4

Visible improvements in skin tone evenness and firmer appearance

6-8

Weeks 6-8

Notable reduction in fine lines with improved elasticity

8-12

Weeks 8-12

Skin texture continues improving, fine lines less prominent

12+

Weeks 12+

Ongoing support for firmer, smoother skin with daily use

1-2

Weeks 1-2

Scalp feels healthier with improved comfort

3-4

Weeks 3-4

Hair appears smoother with improved shine and less shedding

6-8

Weeks 6-8

Visible improvements in hair density and scalp health

8-12

Weeks 8-12

Hair appears noticeably thicker and fuller

12+

Weeks 12+

Ongoing support for fuller, denser hair with daily use

Individual results may vary. Research on copper peptides, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, and Acetyl Tetrapeptide-3 noted visible improvements within study timeframes with consistent use of peptide complexes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are copper peptides and how do they work? +

Copper peptides (GHK-Cu) are amino acid complexes composed of glycine, histidine, and lysine bound to copper ions. Research published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences describes copper peptides as compounds studied for their role in tissue processes, collagen production pathways, and extracellular matrix remodeling involving dermal fibroblasts and skin cells.

PLU Laboratories formulates copper peptides at clinically studied concentrations in dual-peptide systems for comprehensive appearance benefits.

How does copper peptide compare to retinol for anti-aging? +

Copper peptides and retinol work through different mechanisms. Retinol increases cell turnover but can cause irritation, dryness, and sun sensitivity. Copper peptides support collagen appearance and skin firmness without the common side effects associated with retinoids.

Many users prefer copper peptide serums because they can be used morning and night without photosensitivity concerns, while retinol typically requires nighttime-only application and strict sun protection.

How does copper peptide hair tonic compare to minoxidil? +

Minoxidil works as a vasodilator (blood vessel widener) originally developed to lower blood pressure. Clinical research published in StatPearls documents that 46.5% of minoxidil users experience side effects including skin irritation and scalp irritation (13.8%), unwanted facial hair (12.3%), and contact dermatitis from propylene glycol.

Copper peptides like GHK-Cu work through different amino acid signaling mechanisms studied in tissue remodeling research. The copper peptide complex supports the appearance of fuller, thicker hair without the vasodilation-related side effects, skin irritation, or propylene glycol irritation common with minoxidil formulations.

Can I use both Face Tonic and Hair Tonic together? +

Yes! Face Tonic and Hair Tonic are designed to work together as complementary products. Face Tonic combines GHK-Cu with Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 and Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 for facial skin appearance, while Hair Tonic combines GHK-Cu with Acetyl Tetrapeptide-3 for scalp and hair appearance. Each product uses a focused dual-peptide system optimized for its specific application area.

Many customers use both products as part of their daily routine - Face Tonic morning and night, Hair Tonic once daily (typically at night).

What makes PLU different from other copper peptide brands? +

PLU Laboratories formulates multi-peptide systems at clinically studied concentrations, then has each finished product tested by an independent university lab and publishes the reports. Our Face Tonic combines GHK-Cu with Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 and Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7. Our Hair Tonic combines GHK-Cu with Acetyl Tetrapeptide-3. We keep each formula to the peptides and their carriers, so you can layer hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, or anything else at whatever strength you prefer.

When will I see results from copper peptide serums? +

Most users report initial improvements in texture and appearance within 1-2 weeks. Visible improvements in fine lines (Face Tonic) or hair density appearance (Hair Tonic) typically become noticeable at 6-8 weeks with consistent daily use.

Research on copper peptides and dual-peptide complexes noted visible improvements within study timeframes. Individual results vary based on age, skin condition, and consistency of application.

Are copper peptides safe for sensitive skin? +

Copper peptides are generally well-tolerated, even by sensitive skin. Unlike retinol or acids, copper peptides don't cause irritation, peeling, or photosensitivity in most users. Our formulations contain focused peptide systems without common irritants like fragrances or essential oils.

If you have specific skin sensitivities or concerns, we recommend patch testing on a small area before full application.

Can I use copper peptide serums with other skincare products? +

Yes, but timing matters. Apply PLU products to clean, dry skin first. Wait 60 seconds for absorption before layering other products. Copper peptides work best when applied directly to skin without barrier ingredients.

Avoid mixing copper peptides with vitamin C or direct acids (like AHA/BHA) in the same routine, as these can reduce copper peptide stability. You can use these products at different times of day if desired.

Do I need to use copper peptides forever, or can I stop? +

Copper peptides support ongoing appearance benefits with continued use. If you stop using the product, your skin and hair won't worsen beyond their natural baseline, but the appearance improvements from peptide application will gradually diminish as your routine returns to its previous state.

Many users find that once they reach their desired results (typically 3-4 months), they can maintain those results with continued daily application.

What's the difference between GHK-Cu and other peptides? +

GHK-Cu is a copper tripeptide specifically studied for its role in collagen production pathways and tissue remodeling. Other peptides like palmitoyl tripeptide-1 and palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7 work as matrikine signaling molecules for skin texture appearance.

PLU combines GHK-Cu with complementary peptides - Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 and Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 for face, Acetyl Tetrapeptide-3 for hair - creating dual-peptide systems where both amino acid sequences support appearance through different mechanisms studied in published research.

How should I store my copper peptide products? +

Store PLU products in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Room temperature storage is fine - refrigeration is not required. Keep bottles tightly closed when not in use to maintain peptide stability.

Our dark glass bottles protect peptide complexes from light degradation. Properly stored, products maintain effectiveness through their expiration date.

Who should use copper peptide serums? +

Copper peptide serums work for anyone concerned with skin aging appearance, fine lines, skin firmness, hair thinning, or scalp health. They're particularly popular among people aged 30-55 who want science-backed alternatives to invasive procedures or products with harsh side effects.

Both products are formulated for all skin types and genders. Many customers use copper peptides as a preventative measure before visible aging concerns become pronounced.

What is your return policy? +

Every order is covered by a 30-day return policy with free return shipping. If a product is not right for you, contact [email protected] and we will take care of it.

How fast is shipping? +

Shipping is free on orders of $30 or more. Orders under $30 ship for a flat $5.95 rate. Orders are processed in 1-2 business days and typically arrive within 3-7 business days.