What Are Peptides?
Peptides are short chains of amino acids. Amino acids are the building blocks that form proteins, and peptides are created when two or more amino acids are linked together.
Peptides occur naturally throughout the body and are involved in a wide range of biological processes. Different peptides have different structures and properties depending on the amino acids they contain and the order in which those amino acids are arranged.
Today, peptides are also widely used as ingredients in cosmetic and skincare formulations.
Peptides in Skincare
In cosmetic formulations, different peptides may be selected according to their individual properties and the intended purpose of the formulation.
Peptide-containing products are commonly incorporated into modern skincare routines and may be formulated alongside ingredients designed to moisturise, condition and support the appearance of the skin.
Not all peptides are the same. Their characteristics depend on their individual amino-acid sequence, structure and formulation.
What Are Copper Peptides?
Copper peptides are peptides that form complexes with copper ions. Combining a peptide with copper creates a copper-peptide complex with properties that differ from the peptide alone.
One of the best-known examples is GHK-Cu, a copper complex of the tripeptide GHK (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine). GHK is naturally occurring and has been identified in human plasma. Its ability to bind copper has been the subject of scientific research for decades.
Copper peptides are also used as ingredients in cosmetic formulations, including products designed for skin and scalp care.
What Is GHK-Cu?
GHK-Cu is a copper-peptide complex formed when the tripeptide GHK binds with copper.
GHK consists of three amino acids: glycine, histidine and lysine. Research into GHK and its copper complex spans several decades, and GHK-Cu continues to be studied across a range of scientific fields.
In cosmetics, copper tripeptides can be incorporated into topical formulations intended to support the appearance and condition of the skin.
What Is AHK-Cu?
AHK-Cu is another copper-peptide complex. It is formed from the tripeptide AHK — alanine, histidine and lysine — complexed with copper.
Although structurally related to other copper peptides, AHK-Cu is a distinct peptide complex and should not be considered interchangeable with GHK-Cu.
AHK-Cu has been investigated in laboratory and ex vivo research involving human hair follicles and dermal papilla cells. Research specific to AHK-Cu is more limited than the broader body of research surrounding GHK-Cu, and further research is needed to establish its effects in people.
GHK-Cu and AHK-Cu: What Is the Difference?
GHK-Cu and AHK-Cu are both copper-peptide complexes, but they contain different amino-acid sequences.
GHK-Cu contains glycine, histidine and lysine, while AHK-Cu contains alanine, histidine and lysine. This difference means they are distinct compounds with their own characteristics and areas of research.
Rather than treating all copper peptides as identical, it is important to consider the specific peptide used and the formulation in which it appears.
Peptides at NeoGen
NeoGen explores the use of peptide ingredients in modern cosmetic formulations for skin and scalp care.
Our formulations are developed with a focus on ingredient transparency, straightforward product information and considered cosmetic applications.
We believe understanding the ingredients in a formulation is an important part of choosing the right products for your routine. Our Peptide Library is designed to make information about peptides, copper peptides and their use in cosmetics easier to understand.
Learn More About Peptides
As our Peptide Library grows, you will be able to explore individual ingredients and topics in greater detail, including GHK-Cu, AHK-Cu, copper peptides and their use in cosmetic skin and scalp formulations.
Please note: Information provided by NeoGen is for general educational purposes and relates to cosmetic ingredients and formulations. It is not intended as medical advice or as a substitute for advice from a qualified healthcare professional.