GHK-Cu Copper Peptide Serum Sapónne

GHK-Cu Explained: What “Copper Tripeptide-1” Means in Skincare (And How To Use It)

If you’ve been searching for a GHK-Cu peptide serum or a copper peptide serum for face, you’ve probably seen lots of different percentages, blends, and confusing names.

This guide breaks down what GHK-Cu actually is, what “Copper Tripeptide-1” means, and how to use a copper peptide serum in a routine — in plain English.

Blue dropper bottle of SAPONNE Advanced Copper Peptide Serum with product details on a dark background

Shop our Copper Peptide Serum here: 👇🏽

[ 1% GHK-Cu, 300mg per 30ml ]

What is GHK-Cu?

GHK-Cu is short for Glycyl-L-Histidyl-L-Lysine + Copper — a tiny peptide that binds to copper (that’s what the “Cu” means). In skincare, it’s commonly listed as:

  • Copper Tripeptide-1
  • GHK-Cu
  • sometimes simply “copper peptide” (a broad umbrella term)

When people say “copper peptide serum,” they often mean a formula containing Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu).

Is GHK-Cu the same as “copper peptides”?

Not always.

“Copper peptides” is a general term — there are different copper-binding peptides used in skincare. GHK-Cu (Copper Tripeptide-1) is one of the most recognised and widely used forms, which is why you’ll see people specifically search for “GHK-Cu serum” or “GHK Cu peptide serum.”

Blue dropper bottle with certification icons on a dark background

Why do people use GHK-Cu in a face serum?

Copper peptides are popular because they’re typically used to support the look of:

  • smoother-looking skin texture
  • bouncy, healthier-looking skin
  • skin that looks more refreshed and resilient
  • overall “skin repair” routines (especially when your skin barrier needs TLC)

Everyone’s skin is different — but copper peptide serums are often chosen when someone wants a results-driven serum that still feels barrier-friendly.

Tip: If you’re new to copper peptides, start slow (we’ll show you how below).

What does “1% GHK-Cu” actually mean?

This is where things get confusing online.

Sometimes, brands quote a percentage that refers to a premix or a solution (not the pure peptide content). That’s why two “copper peptide” serums can feel very different.

How we state it

Our serum uses Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu) at 1% w/w, which equals 300mg per 30ml bottle.

That means you can compare it properly — without guessing what’s inside a blend.

See the product here: 

[ 1% GHK-Cu, 300mg per 30ml ]

How to use a GHK-Cu copper peptide serum (simple routine)

Step-by-step (AM or PM)

  1. Cleanse
  2. Apply 2–3 drops to face and neck
  3. Follow with moisturiser
  4. In the morning, finish with SPF

Best tip for results (and comfort)

Copper peptide serums apply best on slightly damp skin. If your skin is dry, mist with water or a gentle toner first, then apply.Instructions on how to use a skincare product with a close-up of a dropper and water droplet.

Can you use GHK-Cu with retinol, vitamin C, or acids?

This depends on your skin.

Some people prefer to separate strong actives and copper peptides to keep routines comfortable.

A simple, sensitive-skin-friendly approach:

AM: Hydrating serum + SPF

PM (alternate nights):

  • Night A: Copper peptide serum
  • Night B: Retinoid or exfoliating acid

If your skin is very resilient and you’ve used actives for a long time, you may tolerate more — but alternating is the easiest “no drama” method.Copper Peptide Serum by Sapónne

Is a GHK-Cu serum suitable for sensitive skin?

Many people with sensitive skin do well with copper peptides — especially when the formula is designed to be hydrating and gentle.

If you’re sensitive, use this approach:

  • Start 3 nights a week for 1–2 weeks
  • Then increase to every other night
  • Then, if your skin loves it, up to daily
  • Always patch test first.

Why our formula isn’t “just GHK-Cu”

A good copper peptide face serum is usually more than one ingredient.

Our formula pairs GHK-Cu with a multi-peptide complex plus hydrating, skin-supporting ingredients like hyaluronic acid, Tremella mushroom, Centella, and more — so the serum feels comfortable, bouncy, and supportive in real life (not just on paper).

Shop the serum here:

[ 1% GHK-Cu, 300mg per 30ml ]

Quick FAQ

What does GHK-Cu stand for?

It’s a peptide (GHK) bound to copper (Cu). In skincare you’ll often see it listed as Copper Tripeptide-1.

Is “Copper Tripeptide-1” the same as GHK-Cu?

In skincare labeling, Copper Tripeptide-1 is the INCI name commonly used for GHK-Cu.

When should I use copper peptide serum?

Most people use it AM or PM. If you use strong actives (retinol/acids), alternating nights can be a comfortable routine.

How long does a 30ml bottle last?

If you use 2–3 drops once daily, typically 6–8 weeks, depending on use.

Final thoughts

If you’ve been looking for a GHK Cu peptide serum that’s easy to understand and easy to use, the goal is simple: choose a formula that clearly states what’s inside, then use it consistently in a routine that keeps your skin comfortable.

Shop Sapónne Naturals Copper Peptide Serum (1% GHK-Cu, 300mg):

[ 1% GHK-Cu, 300mg per 30ml ]

 

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