Why 0.10% GHK-Cu

The following references provide scientific context for why GHK-Cu is formulated for consistent cosmetic use at controlled concentrations.

Most skincare brands compete on higher percentages.

We chose not to.

Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu) is a signal peptide, not a bulk active. Its role in cosmetic formulations is not to overwhelm the skin, but to communicate with it.

Scientific literature shows GHK-Cu is biologically active at very low concentrations. Increasing concentration does not necessarily increase effectiveness and may reduce tolerability in daily-use cosmetic formulations.

ION BLUE selected 0.10% based on:

  • Signal peptide behavior

  • Stability in topical formulations

  • Consistent daily use

  • Skin tolerance across skin types

    We do not compete on inflated percentages. We formulate in alignment with cosmetic science.

Not because it sounds impressive —

but because it aligns with how signal peptides function in real skin.

More is not always better

Many products on the market advertise copper peptide concentrations of 1–2% or higher. These numbers are rarely contextualized and often do not reflect:

peptide purity

actual bioavailability

skin tolerance in leave-on cosmetic use

ION BLUE does not compete on inflated numbers.

We compete on clarity, restraint, and alignment with cosmetic science.

Designed for consistency, not irritation

Copper peptides are known to be reactive molecules. At higher concentrations, they may cause irritation, instability, or inconsistent user experience — especially in daily-use formulations.

Our goal was not to push limits.

It was to create a formulation that can be used consistently, comfortably, and long-term.

If science changes, we change

ION BLUE does not lock itself into dogma.

If future cosmetic science demonstrates that a different concentration is more appropriate for topical use, our formulations will evolve accordingly.

Transparency is not a marketing angle for us —

it’s the operating principle.