GHK-Cu vs copper peptide serum: what is the difference?
"Copper peptide" can mean two very different products: a research-grade GHK-Cu powder for the lab, or a cosmetic serum for the skin. They share the copper ion, but not the framework they are used in. Here is the difference, factually.
| Property | GHK-Cu (Copper Peptide) | Copper Peptide Hair Serum |
|---|---|---|
| Form | Lyophilised powder (vial) | Ready-to-use serum (30 ml) |
| Framework | Laboratory and research purposes only | Cosmetic product for topical use |
| Composition | GHK (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine) with a bound copper ion | Copper peptide complex in a cosmetic formulation |
| Research field | Skin and ageing research | Not applicable (cosmetic use) |
| Purity | ≥99% (HPLC + MS, Janoshik COA per batch) | Not applicable — not a research-grade product |
| Molecular weight | 403.93 g/mol | See COA per batch |
| Vial strength | 100 mg per vial | 30 ml |
The same copper ion, a different framework
The defining difference is not the molecule but the framework: GHK-Cu is supplied as a lyophilised powder for research only, while a copper peptide serum is a cosmetic product for topical use. Those two categories fall under different rules, which is exactly why they are kept strictly apart.
Want the background to the molecule? Read what GHK-Cu is or the broader guide to copper peptides.
Which suits which purpose?
For laboratory and research work only the research-grade variant is relevant: lyophilised, ≥99% pure and with a batch-specific COA. The cosmetic serum is not research material and carries no COA on peptide purity.
See both in the anti-ageing & longevity and skincare & serums categories.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between GHK-Cu and a copper peptide serum?
GHK-Cu is a lyophilised research-grade powder supplied for laboratory and research purposes only, with a batch-specific COA. A copper peptide serum is a ready-to-use cosmetic product for topical use. Different product categories, different framework.
What does GHK stand for?
GHK is the amino-acid sequence glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine. The 'Cu' refers to the bound copper ion, which is a central part of the molecule.
Does the cosmetic serum also have a COA?
No. The batch-specific Janoshik certificate at ≥99% purity belongs to the research-grade peptides. Cosmetic serums fall under a different framework and are not offered as research material.
FOR RESEARCH USE ONLY. For laboratory and research purposes only. Not for human or animal consumption; not a medicine and does not constitute medical advice.