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Copper tripeptide-1

Copper tripeptide-1 suppliers and sourcing guide

Copper tripeptide-1 is the INCI name for the copper(II) complex of the tripeptide glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine (GHK). The peptide is made by chemical peptide synthesis, purified, and then combined with a copper salt so that the copper binds to the peptide. It is sold as a blue to violet powder, usually as an acetate or chloride salt, and as dilute aqueous solutions for skin and hair products.

See suppliersWhat to ask for on the COA
Also known as
GHK-Cu · glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine copper complex · copper peptide
Facts checked
November 2026

Forms and grades of copper tripeptide-1

Suppliers sell different products under the same name. Specify the one you need.

  • Lyophilized powder

    High-purity GHK-Cu powder, usually stated as a peptide purity percentage by HPLC.

  • Aqueous solutions

    Ready-to-use solutions at a stated GHK-Cu concentration with a preservative, which are easier to dose at low levels.

  • Encapsulated or liposomal forms

    GHK-Cu in liposomes or other carriers, sold at a lower active content per gram.

What to check on the COA

Compare each result with your own specification when the lot arrives.

Peptide purity (HPLC)
GHK content and purity by reverse-phase HPLC; ask for the chromatogram.
Identity (mass spectrometry)
Molecular mass of the peptide by LC-MS.
Copper content
Copper by ICP-OES or AAS, which shows whether the complex has the expected copper ratio.
Water content
Karl Fischer water, since the powder is hygroscopic and water changes the active per gram.
Counter-ion and appearance
Acetate or chloride content and color of powder and solution.
Microbiology
Total aerobic count, yeast and mold, especially for solutions.

Storage, lots and expiry

Storage and shelf life

Store the powder sealed and refrigerated, protected from light and moisture, and let containers reach room temperature before opening to avoid condensation. Solutions should be kept closed and cool as the supplier specifies. Shelf life and retest dates come from the supplier.

Lots and expiry dates

Peptide purity, water content and copper ratio can vary by lot, so record all three and dose by the active content rather than by powder weight. Color change in solution is a sign to retest.

Regulatory status

Facts from regulators and standards bodies, each linked to its source.

  • Health Canada's Natural Health Products Ingredients Database lists copper tripeptide-1 as an approved chemical name with the non-medicinal purpose skin-conditioning agent, for topical use, citing CosIng.

    Source: webprod.hc-sc.gc.ca (opens in a new tab)

This is general information, not regulatory advice. Status differs by country and by how the ingredient is used, so check the rules for your product and market.

Copper tripeptide-1 suppliers

Manufacturers and distributors whose own websites say they sell it.

We are checking copper tripeptide-1 suppliers now

Every listing is checked against the supplier’s own website before it goes live, so this list fills in over the coming weeks. The specs and COA checklist above are ready today.

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Frequently asked questions

What forms of copper tripeptide-1 can brands buy?

Common forms include lyophilized powder, aqueous solutions and encapsulated or liposomal forms. Ask each supplier for the specification sheet of the exact grade they quote.

What should the COA for copper tripeptide-1 include?

Expect peptide purity (HPLC), identity (mass spectrometry), copper content, water content, counter-ion and appearance and microbiology, each with its method, specification and result for that lot.

How should copper tripeptide-1 be stored?

Store the powder sealed and refrigerated, protected from light and moisture, and let containers reach room temperature before opening to avoid condensation. Solutions should be kept closed and cool as the supplier specifies. Shelf life and retest dates come from the supplier.

What is the regulatory status of copper tripeptide-1?

Health Canada's Natural Health Products Ingredients Database lists copper tripeptide-1 as an approved chemical name with the non-medicinal purpose skin-conditioning agent, for topical use, citing CosIng.

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