The Anti-Aging Peptide That Works On 900 Longevity Genes (GHK-Copper Explained) | Kyal Van Der Leest

Why It Matters

Effective oral delivery of GHK‑Cu could democratize a potent longevity peptide, driving new product categories in nutraceuticals and skincare and offering measurable anti‑aging benefits.

Key Takeaways

• Oral GHK can survive stomach acid, achieving systemic effects
• Liposomal GHK improves bioavailability, targeting skin and cardiovascular health
• Non‑liposomal GHK acts locally in gut, repairing intestinal lining
• GHK modulates ~900 longevity genes, boosting stem cell activation
• Combining GHK with hyaluronic acid synergistically enhances skin hydration and collagen

Summary

The video explains how the tripeptide GHK‑copper (GHK‑Cu) can be used as an oral and topical anti‑aging ingredient, highlighting its ability to survive stomach acid and reach systemic circulation.

Because GHK is only three amino acids, it can cross the intestinal epithelium; liposomal encapsulation raises systemic bioavailability from roughly 15 % to a therapeutically relevant level, while the non‑liposomal form remains in the gut lumen to repair the intestinal lining. The peptide is reported to favorably regulate about 900 longevity‑related genes, stimulate stem‑cell proliferation, and boost collagen and elastin synthesis.

The presenter cites the Picket and Vasquez study that documents GHK’s epigenetic activation of anti‑oxidative pathways, and notes that pairing GHK with high‑molecular‑weight hyaluronic acid creates a “magic combination” for skin hydration and extracellular‑matrix support. He also draws a parallel between gut health and skin health, describing the gut as an “internal skin” that benefits from the same collagen‑enhancing mechanisms.

If these delivery claims hold, GHK‑Cu could become a cornerstone of next‑generation nutraceuticals and cosmeceuticals, offering a scientifically backed route to improve skin, joint, and cardiovascular health while tapping into the growing longevity market.

Original Description

What if one tiny peptide — just three amino acids long — could influence over 900 longevity genes, activate stem cells, and boost collagen synthesis in both your skin AND your gut?

Watch the full episode at https://youtu.be/XFte5B2VzWI

Meet GHK-Copper. In this clip from Better with Dr. Stephanie, peptide formulator Kyal Van Der Leest explains how GHK-Copper works topically for anti-aging skin health AND orally for what he calls "skin from within." He breaks down the difference between liposomal GHK (designed to get into circulation for systemic benefits) and non-liposomal GHK (designed to work locally in the gut), why he pairs it with hyaluronic acid for a synergistic skin health effect, and why your gut lining is essentially your "internal skin" — meaning what's good for your face is good for your gut.

We also reference the study by Pickart and Vasquez on GHK and the prevention of oxidative stress and degenerative conditions of aging — one of the most comprehensive papers on this peptide.

If you care about skin health, gut health, and aging well from the inside out, this is the clip to watch.