GHK-Cu (topical) vs Epitalon

The cosmetic form of the copper tripeptide that has colonised beauty aisles and TikTok routines. Topical GHK-Cu drives collagen, hair follicle activation, and fine-line reduction.

A tetrapeptide (Ala-Glu-Asp-Gly) developed in 1980s Soviet research, claimed to activate telomerase and modulate melatonin secretion from the pineal gland.

Applied topically, GHK-Cu penetrates the stratum corneum and activates copper-dependent enzymes in the skin — upregulating collagen III, elastin, glycosaminoglycans, and the superoxide-dismutase antioxidant system.

Epitalon is proposed to upregulate telomerase activity, potentially slowing telomere shortening in somatic cells. It has also been shown in animal models to restore pineal melatonin rhythm and improve circadian regulation.

Apply serum nightly to clean skin

5–10 mg daily for 10–20 days, 1–2 courses per year (traditional protocol)

N/A (topical residence time ~12h)

Not well characterised

Topical

Subcutaneous, Intranasal

approved

research-only

Not yet listed

£15 · £1.5/mg via Peptides UK