Prescription-strength copper peptide creams and serums for collagen, firmness, and skin quality, at a far higher GHK-Cu concentration than over-the-counter products.
Reviewed by Dr. Jason Wright, D.O. · September 23, 2026
The science
How it works
Builds collagen
GHK-Cu signals skin cells to make collagen, elastin, and the supporting matrix that keeps skin firm.
Remodels scars
It balances the enzymes that break down and rebuild tissue, which is why it is used for scar quality.
Barrier support (niacinamide)
Niacinamide strengthens the skin barrier and evens tone and redness.
Expression lines (SNAP-8)
SNAP-8 dampens the nerve-to-muscle signal behind expression lines, a much milder topical cousin of the Botox mechanism.
Estrogen for mature skin (estriol)
A very low dose of estriol applied to the skin supports thickness and moisture in skin that has lost estrogen after menopause.
GHK-Cu has small human studies on skin and extensive lab research. Evidence for SNAP-8 comes mainly from its manufacturer.
Dosing
Your dosing plan
Dr. Wright sets your exact dose within this range at your visit.
Creams
FormTopical
DosePea-sized amount to face and neck
ScheduleOnce or twice daily
Based onPharmacy labeling
Serums
FormTopical
Dose3 to 5 drops to face and neck
ScheduleOnce or twice daily, before moisturizer
Based onPharmacy labeling
Estriol creams
FormTopical
DosePea-sized amount
ScheduleOnce daily in the evening; a 30 g jar lasts about 90 days
Based onPharmacy labeling
After surgery
FormTopical
DoseStart once incisions have closed
ScheduleTiming set by your surgeon
Based onClinical practice
Side effects
Side effects and what to expect
Mild redness or tinglingUncommon · First week
Use once daily until your skin adjusts.
Dryness or irritationUncommon · First weeks
Add a plain moisturizer and space it from retinoids.
Allergic reactionRare · Any time
Stop and contact the practice.
A note from Dr. Wright
This is the line I recommend for my surgical patients. After liposuction, BodyTite, FaceTite, or skin removal, the skin keeps remodeling for months, and GHK-Cu supports the collagen that determines how it looks. It is also a strong daily product on its own.
Dr. Jason Wright, D.O. · Board certified, American Board of Cosmetic Surgery
Cost & access
Getting started with GHK-Cu Skin Care
GHK-Cu Skin Care
Compounded creams (30 g) and serums (30 mL) · Labeled in your name
Biocosmetic Cream with SNAP-8: GHK-Cu 3%, estriol 0.003% (30 g)$180
Questions
Common questions
Which product should I choose?
Cashmere Cream is the everyday moisturizer. The Firming Serum is a lighter daily treatment. The SNAP-8 Serum adds help for expression lines. The Biocosmetic creams add estriol for mature or post-menopausal skin.
Who shouldn’t use the estriol creams?
Anyone who is pregnant or breastfeeding. A history of breast or uterine cancer, or of blood clots, needs Dr. Wright’s review first. The estriol is 0.003%, a very low dose meant to act only in the skin, but it is still an estrogen. Use one estriol cream at a time, not both.
Can I use it with retinoids or vitamin C?
Yes, but apply them at different times of day to limit irritation. Dr. Wright will set a simple routine.
Can I use it after surgery?
Yes, once incisions have closed and your surgeon agrees. Many surgical patients use it during the months the skin is remodeling.
How soon will I see results?
Skin renews slowly. Judge it at 8 to 12 weeks.
Research
Supporting studies
GHK-Cu increases collagen, elastin, and glycosaminoglycan synthesis and shifts gene expression toward repair
Pickart L, Margolina A. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 2018 (review)
