Copper Peptide GHK-Cu Solution (Copper Tripeptide-1)

A ready-to-use copper peptide solution

A blue tint in a serum bottle has become a signal that many skincare shoppers recognize: copper peptide inside. Copper Peptide GHK-Cu is a pre-dissolved solution of Copper Tripeptide-1, the copper complex of the tripeptide glycyl-histidyl-lysine, prepared so that cosmetic manufacturers can add it straight to the cooled batch of a topical product.

The solution sits with our other ready-to-use peptide solutions, and many serum makers pair it with a signal peptide such as Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 + Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 Liquid in the same water phase.

Identity and data

INCI of the active: Copper Tripeptide-1. CAS: 89030-95-5. The full vehicle INCI, including the solvent system, is confirmed on the CoA for each lot. The supplier specification lists a pH range of 5.0 to 6.5 and recommends adding the solution during cool-down without long heating. Take the use level from the supplier documentation for your lot.

Solution or dry material

Our catalog also carries GHK-Cu as a dry material. The solution suits brands that produce often, want a fast and repeatable process, or work without a precision balance for very small amounts. The dry form suits brands that want full control over concentration and carrier. Both share the same chemistry and compatibility rules. Compare the two with our GHK-Cu Powder listing.

Product formats

On the face, the supplier specification lists serums, creams and emulsions, eye contour products and concentrates; a light gel serum is the most popular retail format. For hair, it lists scalp tonics and hair serums positioned for a well-groomed scalp and stronger-looking hair. For salons and spas, single-use ampoules and concentrates suit professional facial menus.

Compatibility

Copper complexes need a gentle environment. Leave out strong chelators such as disodium EDTA, which can pull copper out of the complex. Keep pure ascorbic acid and other strong reducing agents in separate products and avoid strong oxidizers. Keep the finished pH within 5.0 to 6.5. Some thickeners and preservatives change color in the presence of copper, so watch for shifts from blue to green or brown during stability tests.

Building the formula

Build the base first and cool it below about 40 °C. Add the solution slowly with gentle mixing. A hydrating base with glycerin and hyaluronic acid works well. For a second peptide with a different role, consider Acetyl Hexapeptide-8. Describe the finished product in cosmetic terms, such as firmer-looking, smoother-looking and more radiant-looking skin, and base any timing claims on tests of the finished product.

Original recipe: copper peptide ampoule serum, 100 g

Purified water 86.30 g, glycerin 4.00 g, propanediol 3.00 g, sodium hyaluronate 0.20 g, hydroxyethylcellulose 0.50 g, Copper Peptide GHK-Cu solution 2.00 g as an example level per CoA, panthenol 1.00 g, betaine 2.00 g, preservative compatible with copper 1.00 g. Disperse the cellulose and hyaluronate in the glycols, add the water and stir until clear. Below 40 °C add the panthenol, betaine, copper solution and preservative. Adjust the pH to 5.5 to 6.0.

Storage

Keep tightly closed in a cool place away from light. Use clean pipettes and reseal right after dispensing.