Peptide Skincare & BeautySkin science and ingredient guides

Ingredient or product comparison

GHK-Cu Myths Cost Money Health: Peptide Comparison

GHK-Cu TIMP upregulation, MMP inhibition, TGF-β modulation 2–3 µM in culture; 0.05–0.1% topical pH 6.8–7.4, argon storage, <8°C $120–180 (research grade) Gold standard for collagen remodeling. But only when formulation chemistry is correct Copper-AHK Non-speci

This source-based comparison does not add ratings or recommend a winner.

  • GHK-Cu
  • TIMP upregulation, MMP inhibition, TGF-β modulation
  • 2–3 µM in culture; 0.05–0.1% topical
  • pH 6.8–7.4, argon storage, <8°C
  • $120–180 (research grade)
  • Gold standard for collagen remodeling. But only when formulation chemistry is correct
  • Copper-AHK
  • Non-specific copper delivery, minimal TIMP effect
  • 5–10 µM
  • Less pH-sensitive than GHK-Cu
  • $60–90
  • Cheaper alternative with weaker evidence base
  • GHK (copper-free)
  • Mild TGF-β activation without MMP inhibition
  • 10–20 µM
  • Stable across wider pH range
  • $40–70
  • Minimal tissue remodeling effect without copper
  • Matrixyl (palmitoyl peptides)
  • TGF-β upregulation via different receptor pathway
  • 3–5% topical
  • Room temperature stable
  • $80–120
  • Different mechanism. Can be combined with GHK-Cu