Peptide Skincare & BeautySkin science and ingredient guides

Ingredient or product comparison

GHK-Cu Peptide Same as GHK-Cu: Comparison

The table below clarifies the relationship between nomenclature variants and the underlying molecular identity of GHK-Cu, addressing common points of confusion about whether different product labels indicate different compounds. GHK-Cu Gly-His-Lys tripeptide c

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  • The table below clarifies the relationship between nomenclature variants and the underlying molecular identity of GHK-Cu, addressing common points of confusion about whether different product labels indicate different compounds.
  • GHK-Cu
  • Gly-His-Lys tripeptide coordinated to Cu²⁺; 340 Da; 1:1 stoichiometry
  • Research literature, biochemical databases, technical documentation
  • SPPS + controlled copper complexation at pH 6.5–7.5
  • This is the standard nomenclature in peer-reviewed research. No functional difference from 'GHK-Cu Peptide', just shorter
  • GHK-Cu Peptide
  • Identical: Gly-His-Lys tripeptide coordinated to Cu²⁺; 340 Da; 1:1 stoichiometry
  • E-commerce listings, cosmetic ingredient labels, vendor product pages
  • 'Peptide' is a descriptor clarifying compound class. The molecule is identical to 'GHK-Cu' without the label
  • Copper Tripeptide-1
  • INCI (International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients) name for cosmetic formulations
  • INCI naming system for cosmetic labels. Same compound, regulatory naming convention differs from research nomenclature
  • GHK + Copper Salts (Uncomplexed)
  • Free GHK peptide + ionic copper (CuSO₄ or CuCl₂). NOT a coordination complex
  • Low-quality formulations, poorly synthesized products
  • Physical mixture without coordination chemistry
  • This is NOT the same as GHK-Cu. Bioavailability and activity are 3–5× lower because copper is not chelated to the peptide