Peptide Skincare & BeautySkin science and ingredient guides

Ingredient or product comparison

12. Topical vs subcutaneous research protocols

GHK-Cu peptide is used in two main research formats: Topical: Concentration: 0.01–2% depending on application Cosmetic skin research: 0.05–0.2% typical Hair follicle research: 0.05–0.1% Wound-healing topical: 0.5–2% Vehicle: aqueous gel, cream, or hydrogel — c

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  • GHK-Cu peptide is used in two main research formats:
  • Topical:
  • Concentration: 0.01–2% depending on application
  • Cosmetic skin research: 0.05–0.2% typical
  • Hair follicle research: 0.05–0.1%
  • Wound-healing topical: 0.5–2%
  • Vehicle: aqueous gel, cream, or hydrogel — compatibility with copper binding requires formulation care
  • Frequency: daily or twice-daily
  • Subcutaneous:
  • Dose: typically 1–3 mg per administration
  • Frequency: daily or alternating days
  • Duration: 4–12 week study blocks
  • Site: rotating abdominal or thigh subcutaneous injection
  • Oral bioavailability of GHK-Cu is poor; oral formats are not commonly used for research endpoints.