This Anti-Aging Peptide Is Doing More Than Just Tightening Your Skin

Peptides (small proteins) are now ubiquitous in skincare products. One of these peptides, glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine (GHK), is especially popular in anti-aging creams and sera, especially when combined with the metal copper to form the GHK-Cu complex. GHK-Cu supports tissue repair, boosts collagen production and helps skin and hair regenerate more effectively, potentially making it one of the 12 best peptides to improve the body.

The collagen and elastin proteins supply elasticity to skin. As skin ages, less collagen is produced and the existing collagen and elastin in the skin starts to break down. Part of this destruction is caused by enzymes called metalloproteinases, which stimulate the breakdown process. Peptides like GHK-Cu can help combat these destructive effects of aging.

GHK-Cu is a tripeptide, meaning it's a peptide that consists of three amino acids (glycine, histidine, and lysine) that are part of the collagen protein. It is produced in the body in response to injury and aids in the wound healing process by delivering copper to the wound site. Besides reducing wrinkles and fine lines, GHK-Cu counteracts the breakdown of collagen and elastin by inhibiting metalloproteinases. It also stimulates collagen production and promotes skin regeneration through its positive effects on skin cells called fibroblasts. 

One mechanism by which GHK-Cu exerts its positive effects on the skin is by delivering copper to skin cells. Copper is needed for the proper functioning of the enzyme lysyl oxidase, which is involved in collagen production, and the enzyme superoxide dismutase, which helps to neutralize skin-damaging free radicals.

According to a review paper published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences, another mechanism influenced by GHK-Cu is the up- or down-regulation of gene expression (the "reading" of a gene's code to produce the protein encoded by that gene). The authors of the review state that GHK-Cu regulates more than one third of genes in the body by changing their expression by 50% or more, explaining its broad range of effects.

The anti-aging effects of this small but mighty peptide include promoting skin regeneration through boosting collagen production and regulating its breakdown. Producing more collagen is part of how the skin regenerates. Another effect is increasing skin thickness and clarity and reducing wrinkles and fine lines. GHK-Cu also stimulates wound healing and nerve generation as part of skin repair. 

As if these benefits aren't enough, GHK-Cu also possesses strong antioxidant and antinflammatory actions and has been shown to counteract the destructive effects of free radicals. The benefits of GHK-Cu are not restricted to the skin. The peptide also exerts positive effects in other organs, such as the lungs, liver, intestinal lining, nervous system, and bones — a substantial number of body systems.

As amazing as GHK-Cu seems to be, there are other peptides that have impressive anti-aging properties as well. These include palmitoyl pentapeptide-4 (trademarked under the name Matrixyl®), acetyl hexapeptide-3 (Argireline®), and citrulline, to name just a few.  

Matrixyl acts by binding to cells in the layer of the skin called the dermis and promotes the production of collagen types I and III, as well as inhibiting collagen breakdown. Additionally, Matrixyl regulates the synthesis of hyaluronic acid, which has its own powerful anti-aging effects. Because of the effects of Matrixyl on collagen production, it can improve skin elasticity, smoothen and firm skin, and reduce fine lines and wrinkles. 

Argireline reduces lines and wrinkles by inhibiting muscle contraction in the face. It has a similar efficacy as botox but with fewer side effects. Analysis of the mechanism of action revealed that acetyl hexapeptide-3 has a potency similar to botulinum neurotoxins but with fewer side effects. 

Citrulline consists of four peptides, lysine, asparagine, isoleucine, and citrulline. It controls collagen production genesis and can help control the organization of collagen fibers, making them thinner and more uniform.