Natural tripeptide (Gly-His-Lys). Without copper (GHK-Cu has a different profile). Claimed regenerative effect, milder than the copper form.
Topical application
BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations.
Less studied than GHK-Cu. In vitro – fibroblast stimulation.
Tripeptide-1 (GHK, glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine) is a natural tripeptide discovered by Loren Pickart in human plasma in 1973. With age, skin GHK levels drop by 60% by age 60. Without copper (GHK-Cu, the copper peptide, has a different profile). In cosmetics – the milder version for sensitive skin. Mechanism. In cell models it stimulates type I and III collagen, elastin, glycosaminoglycan synthesis, and angiogenesis. In wound healing it is comparable to growth factors (EGF, TGF-β). Activates SIRT1 and FOXO3 – cellular longevity genes. Without copper, it works more weakly than GHK-Cu but does not tint the formula blue. Where applied. Anti-ageing serums and creams, post-procedure products, barrier-recovery formulations. In Spain – in Sesderma, Skeyndor, Mesoestetic lines. Use levels in finished formulas: 0.01-0.1%. Evidence base. The Pickart 2018 review covers 30+ in vitro and in vivo studies with GHK on skin and wound healing. Direct RCT comparisons with retinol or vitamin C are missing. Clinically – elasticity improvement and 15-25% wrinkle-depth reduction over 12 weeks of 2% GHK-Cu (Leyden 2002). Data for the copper-free form are weaker. Safety. Non-sensitising, non-comedogenic. The molecule is large (340 Da); penetration is limited to the epidermis. Pregnancy – use with caution. Despite low systemic absorption, GHK activates angiogenesis and cell proliferation – a theoretical risk in hormone-dependent lesions. AAD recommends peptides with a stronger safety database or niacinamide. Lactation – no data. Suited for. Mature skin, post-procedure recovery (after laser, peels), patients who do not tolerate retinoids.
Irritation potential
LowAllergen risk
LowPregnancy
CautionThe Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to Wildberries, Goldapple, Letu, iHerb, Sephora and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Tripeptide-1 should be used with caution during pregnancy. Consulting a dermatologist or OB-GYN is advisable.
Tripeptide-1 suits: normal, dry, oily, combination, sensitive.
Natural tripeptide (Gly-His-Lys).
The INCI name is Tripeptide-1. It may also appear as: GHK, Glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine.
Published: · updated:
Suitable for