GHK Base (No Cu)
Boosts collagen and promotes hair growth
- Collagen/Skin Repair
- Hair Growth
No controlled human safety trials exist for injectable GHK base Long-term effects are completely unknown due to lack of chronic exposure studies Most published research focuses on GHK-Cu (copper complex), not GHK base alone — safety profiles may differ
Mechanism of Action
GHK (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine) is a naturally occurring tripeptide that binds to extracellular matrix proteins and modulates gene expression, particularly genes involved in tissue remodeling and repair. Without copper binding, GHK base retains some signaling activity but lacks the full antioxidant and metalloenzyme-activating properties conferred by the copper ion. The peptide sequence itself can still interact with cell surface receptors and matrix components to influence cellular behavior. Key Pathways: TGF-β signaling pathway (wound healing and fibrosis regulation), Matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) regulation for ECM remodeling, Gene expression modulation affecting collagen synthesis, Wnt/β-catenin pathway (proposed for hair follicle activation) The theoretical mechanism suggests GHK base could support skin repair and collagen production by signaling tissue remodeling pathways, potentially improving skin texture and wound healing. For hair growth, pathway activation may help maintain hair follicle cycling, though the copper-free form likely has reduced efficacy compared to GHK-Cu for applications dependent on copper-mediated enzymatic activity.
Common Dose Reference Ranges
Educational reference ranges only — discuss actual dosing with a qualified healthcare provider.
Full GHK Base (No Cu) protocols — frequency, timing, cycle length, reconstitution & research
- Injection site irritation
- Skin flushing or warmth
- Mild headache
- Unknown long-term effects