Both are copper peptides that act like tiny messengers, helping cells respond to signals involved in tissue maintenance and repair.

GHK-Cu is mainly studied for skin care, including signals involved in collagen production and maintaining the skin’s structure. AHK-Cu is mainly studied for its effects on cells around hair follicles, which is why it attracts interest for scalp care. Research on AHK-Cu is still early.

Start with 1%. Stronger copper-peptide mixtures may irritate your skin, so begin with a lower strength and pay attention to how your skin responds.

If your skin stays comfortable, you can gradually work toward 2–3%. There’s no need to increase the strength if 1% suits your skin.

You can add the powder directly to a compatible water-based serum, lotion, or cream. Mix thoroughly so the powder spreads evenly throughout the product.

Avoid adding extra water. It can introduce germs and weaken the preservatives already in your product.

A compatible water-based serum is usually the easiest starting point because it is easier to mix evenly. A cream can also work, but thicker products may take more mixing.

For scalp care, choose a product designed to go on your scalp. A leave-in scalp serum stays in contact longer than a rinse-out conditioner. Follow the base product’s directions for application and rinsing.

Some ingredients, pH levels, and formulas can affect copper peptides. Choose a compatible water-based product and check its full ingredient list before mixing.

The ingredient checker can flag common concerns. Compatibility also depends on the amounts of those ingredients and the product’s pH.

Check products containing EDTA, strong exfoliating acids, vitamin C, or retinoids before adding the powder.

EDTA can bind copper. The other ingredients need a closer look at the formula and its pH. The ingredient checker will help you spot these potential concerns.

Ask the product’s brand for its pH or measure it with a suitable pH meter.

Check again after mixing in the powder, since adding ingredients can change the pH.

One level scoop holds approximately 300 mg, or 0.3 g, of powder.

Use a level scoop each time. For more accurate amounts, especially partial scoops, weigh the powder with a precision scale.

It means adding 1 g of powder for every 100 g of skincare base.

For a typical 1 fl oz bottle, the calculator estimates 300 mg of powder—about one level scoop—for a 1% mix. This uses an estimate of 30 g of skincare per fluid ounce. Weighing your product gives a more accurate result.

The percentage refers to the full powder blend. The amount of active peptide depends on the blend’s ingredients.

You can prepare a full bottle when the base has been confirmed compatible and the mixture’s storage life has been established.

Measure the amount of skincare actually in the bottle, calculate the powder needed, and mix thoroughly. Adding powder changes the formula, so the original product’s shelf life may also change.

Keep the powder tightly sealed in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Use a clean, dry scoop.

Your mixed product’s storage needs and usable life depend on its full formula. Contact us for guidance on your chosen base before preparing a batch to store.

Stop using the mixture if you notice redness, itching, swelling, or burning. Give your skin time to recover, and avoid increasing the strength.

Get medical advice if the reaction is severe or continues. Starting at a lower strength does not prevent every possible reaction.