Tripeptide-1 HCl (GHK) – CAS 72957-37-0
Tripeptide-1 HCl is the hydrochloride salt of the glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine (GHK) sequence, a naturally occurring tripeptide first isolated from human plasma in the 1970s. With a molecular weight of 341.4 Da, this compact peptide fragment serves as a collagen signal peptide that communicates tissue remodelling instructions to dermal fibroblasts. The HCl salt form provides excellent water solubility and batch-to-batch consistency for cosmetic manufacturing.
Mechanism of Action
GHK functions as a matrikine, a small peptide released during extracellular matrix breakdown that signals cells to initiate repair. When Tripeptide-1 reaches the dermal layer, it binds to fibroblast receptors and upregulates synthesis of collagen types I and III, fibronectin, and proteoglycans. Simultaneously, it modulates metalloproteinase activity to balance new matrix deposition against degradation. This dual mechanism makes GHK one of the most well-documented repair peptides in the cosmetic literature. Notably, Tripeptide-1 HCl ships without copper, allowing formulators to complex it with Cu2+ on-site or use the free peptide independently.
Formulation Guidelines
Incorporate Tripeptide-1 HCl at 50-500 ppm in the aqueous phase. Optimal pH range is 5.0-7.0. The peptide dissolves readily in water and water-glycol blends. For copper complexation, add equimolar CuCl2 or Cu(OAc)2 in buffered solution at pH 5.5-6.5, then verify the characteristic blue-violet colour indicating successful chelation. When used without copper, Tripeptide-1 retains collagen-signalling activity, though the copper complex adds antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. Avoid combining with EDTA or strong chelators that strip metal ions from the finished product.
Applications in Cosmetic Products
- Anti-aging serums targeting fine lines and loss of firmness
- Post-procedure recovery creams for accelerated barrier repair
- Eye contour treatments addressing crepiness and thin skin
- Copper-peptide formulations when complexed with Cu2+ by the formulator
- Body firming lotions for neck, decolletage, and hand rejuvenation
Stability and Compatibility
Tripeptide-1 HCl remains stable across standard cosmetic processing temperatures up to 40 degrees C. It is compatible with hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, panthenol, and most non-ionic emulsifiers. Store the lyophilised powder at -20 degrees C in airtight containers. Reconstituted stock solutions should be kept at 2-8 degrees C and consumed within 3 months. Protect from prolonged UV exposure to prevent histidine oxidation.
Quality and Supply from TCS NEXUS S.L.
TCS NEXUS S.L. supplies Tripeptide-1 HCl from our warehouse in Valencia, Spain with HPLC purity of 98% or higher. Every lot includes a certificate of analysis documenting identity by mass spectrometry, purity by HPLC, peptide content, amino acid composition, and microbial limits. We maintain inventory for fast European dispatch and support order sizes from research-grade milligrams to multi-kilogram production batches. Documentation for EU Cosmetics Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 is available on request.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Tripeptide-1 HCl and GHK-Cu?
Tripeptide-1 HCl is the free GHK peptide in hydrochloride salt form without copper. Formulators can complex it with copper ions on-site to create GHK-Cu, or use it independently as a collagen signal peptide.
At what concentration should Tripeptide-1 HCl be used?
The recommended range is 50-500 ppm in finished formulations. Most commercial anti-aging serums target 100-200 ppm for measurable firming benefits without formulation cost concerns.
Can Tripeptide-1 HCl be combined with other peptides?
Yes. It pairs well with Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Matrixyl, and neuromuscular peptides like Argireline. Maintain pH 5-7 and avoid strong chelating agents in the same phase.
Technical Support and Samples
Request COA documents, sample availability, or support for custom synthesis.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you provide COA documents for Tripeptide-1 Supplier Europe?
Yes. Each lot can be supplied with a Certificate of Analysis, HPLC purity data, and relevant quality-control results for technical review.
Are samples available for Tripeptide-1 Supplier Europe?
Yes. Sample availability can be confirmed for formulation screening and internal evaluation before a commercial order is placed.
What is the delivery lead time for Tripeptide-1 Supplier Europe?
For stocked material in Valencia, EU delivery is typically 5 to 7 business days. Final timing depends on destination and requested volume.
Do you also support custom synthesis and technical inquiries?
Yes. The team can help with custom synthesis, raw-material selection, technical documentation, and supply planning.