Looksmaxxing with GHk-Cu

Looksmaxxing has many facets, from simple jawline exercises to invasive bone-lengthening surgeries. Between those extremes lies the science-backed pharmacological interventions - skincare therapies, peptides, and regenerative compounds - that elicit significant results without carrying the risks of the extremes. One compound that stands out above the others for this application is GHk-Cu, a naturally occurring tripeptide copper complex, which presents many use cases in the looksmaxxing space. From wound healing, to enhancing skin complexion, to skin thinning, GHk-Cu represents a safe yet effective intervention for improving one's cosmetics.

Pharmacology

GHk-Cu likely exhibits its effects through its ability to bind copper (II) ions and modulate gene expression. According to a study conducted by Kimoto et al., GHk-Cu modulates the expression of over 3,000 genes.

Furthermore, multiple in vitro studies indicate that GHk-Cu may have beneficial cosmetic effects. It's been shown to modulate metalloproteinases, which play roles in dermal matrix breakdown. Since both excessive breakdown of the dermal matrix and inadequate removal of damaged proteins can negatively affect the skin's appearance, GHK-Cu's ability to regulate both metalloproteinases and their inhibitors can support skin regeneration and improve its appearance.

Up to date, it is established that GHK-Cu can:

-Tighten loose skin and reverse thinning of aged skin
-Repair protective skin barrier proteins
-Improve skin firmness, elasticity, and clarity
-Reduce fine lines, depth of wrinkles, and improve the structure of aged skin
-Smooth rough skin
-Reduce photodamage, mottled hyperpigmentation, skin spots, and lesions
-Improve overall skin appearance
-Stimulate wound healing
-Protect skin cells from UV radiation
-Reduce inflammation and free radical damage
-Increase hair growth and thickness, enlarge hair follicle size

(Loren Pickart, Anna Margolina, 1987)

Though this seems impressive, human studies are needed to confirm the realistic efficacy of GHk-Cu cosmetically. Thankfully, the few we do have are very promising.

Human Trials

One study observed the effects of a facial skin cream containing GHk-Cu on 71 women over the course of 12 weeks with mild to advanced signs of sun-induced aging. It was statistically significant in improving cosmetic signs of aging, like wrinkles, fine lines, skin density, and thickness (Leyden et al., 2002).

Another study observed a 70% improvement in collagen synthesis in women who applied a GHk-Cu serum to their inner thigh area (Abdulghani et al., 1998).

Multiple other human and animal studies generally come to the same conclusion - GHk-Cu significantly and remarkably improves signs of cosmetic aging and skin appearance.

Application

GHk-Cu is often administered subcutaneously by injection. Though, for skin-enhancing purposes, it is likely that topical administration may be superior. Especially when combined with microneedling, applying GHk-Cu topically allows it to act more locally than globally. In simpler terms, the peptide will be acting more on your skin, and less on the rest of your body.

Where Can I Get GHk-Cu?

If you're curious about its effects on improving skin quality, I'd highly recommend trying some out yourself. You can make your own serum with traditional GHk-Cu, or you can save yourself the effort and order the serum itself directly from Throne. Throne offers products like a skincare-grade GHk-Cu serum, as well as a GHk-Cu-infused soap. You can find their website here: Made by Throne, and you can use my code "Julian" if you'd like to save some money and support me.