Peptides Studied for Skin & Anti-Aging
Skin health is where peptide research and cosmetic science overlap most directly. GHK-Cu — a naturally occurring copper tripeptide that declines with age — has the most relevant evidence here, with multiple human studies showing improvements in collagen synthesis, skin thickness, and fine lines when applied topically.
BPC-157 appears in this category because of its tissue-repair properties studied in animal wound-healing models. The mechanism is different from GHK-Cu's: BPC-157 research focuses on accelerating healing of damaged tissue rather than cosmetic rejuvenation.
Important context: most GHK-Cu skin studies use topical formulations (creams, serums), not injectable forms. The evidence for injectable GHK-Cu for skin benefits is substantially weaker than for topical use.
GHK-Cu
Glycyl-L-Histidyl-L-Lysine Copper(II) Complex
A naturally occurring copper tripeptide found in human plasma. Moderate evidence for topical skin rejuvenation; limited evidence for injectable forms.
BPC-157
Body Protection Compound-157
A synthetic pentadecapeptide studied for tissue repair, gut healing, and recovery. Extensive animal data, very limited human evidence.