The role of the NL GHK-Cu peptide in skin and hair restoration and regeneration processes

Anti-wrinkle, anti-ageing, protective and regenerative action for the skin. Peptide therapy against hair loss and weakening.

Abstract: NLGHK-Cu, a tripeptide with the amino acid sequence glycyl-histidyl-lysine, is a naturally occurring tripeptide in human plasma. It is considered a powerful rebuilding and regenerating peptide. The peptide has a multifaceted biological action profile, stimulating anti-ageing, rebuilding, regenerating, repairing and nourishing processes for the skin and hair. Keywords: skin; exposomes; hydrolipid barrier; hydrolipid coat; NL GHK-Cu; ageing; gene theory; limited cell division theory; protein disorder theory; membrane theory; mitochondrial theory; photoageing; intrinsic ageing; hair loss; wrinkles; skin changes; UV radiation; pimple; spot; papule; blister; nodule; bubble; damage; dermatoses; wounds; care; tissue remodelling; alopecia List of abbreviations: ATP-adenosine 5′-triphosphate; DNA-deoxyribonucleic acid; GHK-Cu-tripeptide-1 Gly-His-Lys; MPP-matrix metalloproteinases; SOD-superoxide dismutase 

INTRODUCTION

NL GHK-Cu as a signal peptide consists of three amino acids: glycine, histidine and lysine, structurally linked by copper. The copper link is important because many enzymes in the human body cannot function without it. Copper is found in several enzymes in the body, including the important antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase (SOD). The NL GHK-Cu peptide promotes exceptionally effective anti-ageing effects for the skin and additionally reduces discolouration and skin damage, regenerates and accelerates wound healing, inhibits scar formation and supports the hair growth phase while inhibiting the hair loss process. It improved the condition of ageing skin and accelerated hair growth. Interested? Read our customers' reviews! GHK CU reviews

SKIN STRUCTURE

The skin covering our body is one of our largest organs. The condition of our skin often reflects the condition of our entire body. The skin consists of three layers: the epidermis, the dermis and the subcutaneous tissue. The first layer, the epidermis, is the outermost layer of the skin and consists of the basal layer, the spinous layer, the granular layer, the clear layer and the stratum corneum. The epidermis has no blood or lymph vessels. The dermis consists of the reticular layer, papillary layer and skin appendages. The subcutaneous tissue, together with the adipose tissue it contains, gives shape to the skin. It connects the dermis to structures such as tendons, muscles and bones. In addition, the dermis and subcutaneous tissue contain skin appendages, which are hair follicles, eccrine and apocrine sweat glands, sebaceous glands, blood vessels, lymphatic vessels and nerve endings. A network of nerve vessels is located in the dermis, and the skin's vascularisation consists of arterial-venous and lymphatic vessels. In addition, the surface of the skin is covered with a lipid layer and exfoliated epidermis. 

SKIN FUNCTIONS

Human skin performs many physiological functions. It plays an important physiological role, protecting internal organs from harmful environmental, physical, chemical and microbiological factors. It also helps maintain balance between the body and its surroundings. The most important functions of the skin, which are widely known, include the aforementioned protective function, as well as the body's thermoregulatory function, participation in water and secretion management, participation in the synthesis of proteins and certain compounds, and participation in the metabolism of proteins, lipids and carbohydrates. In addition, it plays an important role in the body's immune response and sensory stimulation. Healthy skin is free from damage caused by improper care or adverse environmental influences, tolerates changes in temperature and humidity well, and responds correctly to most skin care products.

EKSPOZOMY- CZYNNIKI WPŁYWAJĄCE NA STAN SKÓRY

The exposome, a relatively new concept used in research related to skin damage, is used to describe all factors that affect the condition and health of human skin. Generally speaking, the exposome refers to factors to which our bodies are exposed in everyday life, every day. Exposure to these factors is divided into three groups: A. Internal, which includes, among others, metabolism, hormone levels, body structure, physical activity, intestinal microflora, the presence of inflammation, oxidative stress and ageing; B. General external factors related to stress, climate or living environment (urban/rural); C. Specific external factors, which include chemical pollution, environmental pollution, infectious agents, radioactivity, smoking, alcohol consumption, work, food, and lack of sleep. It is worth mentioning that 80% of cases of skin deterioration and abnormal skin conditions are related to an unhealthy lifestyle, which consists of many factors such as stress, UV rays, lack of sleep, poor diet, smog, smoking and alcohol consumption.

HYDROLIPID BARRIER

The epidermis, as the thinnest layer of human skin, is exposed to mechanical damage, injuries and environmental factors, which in the case of this layer primarily poses a threat to the condition of the skin. Due to these threatening factors, the epidermis is covered with a protective hydrolipid coat called the hydrolipid barrier. The hydrolipid layer is composed mainly of ceramides, cholesterol and free fatty acids, which prevent water loss through the skin.

DAMAGE TO THE HYDROLIPID BARRIER

Damage to the skin's lipid barrier can have unpleasant consequences and significantly worsen its condition, cause dermatoses or accelerate the ageing process. Disruption of the hydrolipid layer of the epidermis leads to skin dysfunction, preventing it from performing its basic function, which is primarily protective.

HOW EXPOSOMES PENETRATE THE HYDROLIPID BARRIER

Under the influence of the exposome, the hydrolipid coat is damaged, which in turn compromises its integrity. The weakened hydrolipid layer becomes susceptible to damage and allows various types of exposomes to penetrate deeper layers of the skin, disrupting its basic biological functions. Disorders of the biological functions of the hydrolipid coat consist of processes such as: damage to the physical barrier by reducing the adhesion of corneocytes, which form a protective layer, and lowering the quality of the intercellular matrix. In addition, the antibacterial barrier is damaged, the pH of the skin changes and the process of skin cell renewal and reconstruction is disrupted. The damage also affects the antioxidant barrier, which retains water, resulting in reduced cell adhesion and increased transepidermal water loss from the skin. A reduction in the number of cells producing melanin, which is a natural protection against UV rays, is also a consequence of the disruption of the hydrolipid barrier.

SKIN DAMAGE SUSCEPTIBLE TO DAMAGE TO THE HYDROLIPID COAT

The effects of harmful factors on the skin, through damage to the hydrolipid coat, have consequences that are visible on the skin, worsening its health and reducing its condition. The most common symptoms accompanying reduced skin condition include: A. skin sensitivity; B. Redness, vascular problems, erythema; C. Dryness, roughness, dehydration of the skin; D. Discolouration and uneven skin tone; E. Dull, sallow colour, visible blackheads; F. Loss of skin firmness and density due to the degradation of skin support fibres, primarily collagen; G. Faster appearance of wrinkles and skin ageing; H. Greater susceptibility to cuts, scratches, bruises and abrasions.

NL GHK-Cu PEPTIDE

The tripeptide Gly-His-Lys (GHK) is a naturally occurring peptide in human serum and cerebrospinal fluid that has copper (II) chelating properties. GHK-Cu has been used in the production of hair and skin care products in the form of serums, creams and skin lotions. Due to its action profile, it plays a physiological role in wound healing and skin repair by stimulating collagen synthesis in fibroblasts. The use of the peptide also promotes the survival of basic stem cells in the skin.

NL GHK-Cu PEPTIDE AS A RESULT OF DAMAGE TO THE HYDROLIPID COAT

Scientific studies have confirmed the effective therapeutic action of the NL GHK-Cu peptide on skin problems across a wide range of applications. The peptide's profile allows it to be used to smooth wrinkles, firm the skin, reduce photo damage and discolouration, increase skin elasticity and thickness, help remove collagen and elastin damage from the matrix, inhibiting scar formation, supporting the anagen phase of hair growth, promoting hair growth and inhibiting hair loss, protecting stem cell performance and enhancing the production of their regulatory molecules as their own growth factors. In addition, the use of the NL GHK-Cu peptide strongly increases keratinocyte proliferation.

CHARACTERISTICS OF THE PENETRATION OF THE NL GHK-Cu PEPTIDE IN COSMETICS

As mentioned above, NL GHK-Cu has so far been used in the production of hair and skin care products in the form of serums, creams and skin lotions. When applied directly to the skin, preparations containing the NL GHK-Cu peptide penetrated and were absorbed with varying intensity. The peptide substance used, which accumulates on the surface of the skin, undergoes a process of adsorption in the stratum corneum. The penetration of the preparation into the dermis is called penetration, while the even deeper penetration of the active substance into the subcutaneous layer, where the network of blood vessels is located, is called resorption. These stages of penetration are characteristic of cosmetic preparations. The barrier to the use of this type of product is the speed at which the substance is transported through the skin, depending on the condition of the skin, including its biological state, the physicochemical properties of the cosmetic substances and the types of dermatological substrates.

CHARACTERISTICS OF THE PENETRATION OF THE NL GHK-Cu PEPTIDE IN THE CAPSULE

The previous problem associated with the breakdown of the NL GHK-Cu peptide in the body has been solved by changing its chemical form, whereby the basic form of the NL GHK-Cu peptide is modified and converted into a stable peptide salt form. The basic form of NL GHK-Cu, during modification, through coupling with additional amino acids, allows for increased peptide stability and overcoming the existing gastric barrier. When comparing the tablet form of the preparation with the topical preparation for use on the skin, it is worth noting that in the case of the oral medication, the active substance acts systemically, passing through the digestive tract, penetrating the patient's bloodstream and being excreted by the kidneys. The use of the peptide in capsule form leads to an enhanced therapeutic effect, in a shorter period of time and with greater efficacy. In addition, in the case of severe symptoms, the cosmetic preparation may not be sufficient. The optimal and most beneficial effects can be observed when both preparations are used in combination.

SKIN AGEING

Ageing is a natural and inevitable biological process involving progressive changes over time, including a reduction in the biological activity of cells, a slowdown in regenerative processes, a decrease in immunity and response to environmental stress, and a reduction in the body's adaptive properties, which are controlled by genetic factors. The most characteristic symptom of all types of skin ageing processes is the appearance of wrinkles on the skin's surface. Depending on their depth, wrinkles are classified as superficial or deep. They most often appear around the eye sockets and as horizontal or vertical furrows on the forehead, cheeks, lower face and neck.

THEORIES OF SKIN AGEING

GENETIC THEORY

The gene theory suggests that the source of encoded information is located in the DNA of skin cells. The genes located in this area are responsible for the speed and nature of ageing. According to this theory, taking genetics into account, ageing depends on external mutations in the same proportion as the inhibition of the repair capabilities of the cell nucleus DNA, which is why endogenous damage to nuclear DNA plays an important role in the ageing process. This process is associated with genes related to stress response, DNA repair genes (DNA helicases), genes related to energy regulators, and genes related to cell division (telomerase).

THE THEORY OF THE LIMITED NUMBER OF CELL DIVISIONS

The above theory concerns gene damage, assuming that with age, the activity of telomerase, the enzyme responsible for the replication of telomere chromosomes, which shorten with each cell division by transcribing their terminal sequences onto one of the strands of newly formed DNA during the transcription process, is reduced. The process of telomere shortening leads to cell damage and, consequently, to the impairment of its proper division. Therefore, the limited number of cell divisions causes human cells to divide a certain number of times and then die. All these processes lead to the ageing of the body. 

THEORY OF PROTEIN DISORDERS

Decreased protein synthesis is one of the causes of ageing in our bodies. At the molecular level, proteins are responsible for the efficiency of receptors involved in extracellular and intracellular communication, energy production and utilisation, gene expression, and the functioning of repair and defence systems. With age and the ageing of the body, protein synthesis is reduced, probably due to the weakening of the expression of genes encoding a specific amino acid.

MEMBRANE THEORY

Changes in the composition of cell membranes with age lead to an increase in lipid content at the expense of water, which hinders the full transport of essential substances and leads to the accumulation of toxic substances in cells. Changes accompanying the ageing process cause an irreversible increase in the viscosity and stiffness of cell membranes, causing cellular ageing. With age, a glycoprotein known as the ageing antigen also appears in the cell membrane.

MITOCONDRIAL THEORY

Cell death may be associated with disturbances in the vicinity of mitochondria, whose number and activity decrease over time. This leads to a decrease in the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). An increase in the number of damages that cannot be repaired by the repair system leads to an additional reduction in the amount of ATP and impairs the regenerative capacity of cells, which promotes the ageing process.

TYPES OF SKIN AGEING

Depending on the cause, there are several types of skin ageing Two processes influence the changes occurring in the skin:

• The skin ageing process associated with innate mechanisms, known as intrinsic ageing, is a natural process of the body.
  
• The skin ageing process associated with the influence of the external environment is called photoageing, most often caused by excessive exposure of the skin to UV rays.

ANTI-AGING AND WRINKLE-REDUCING ROLE OF NL GHK-Cu

The structure of the extracellular matrix in young skin is intact and regular. In ageing skin, collagen fibres become fragmented, sparse, scattered and disorganised. The fragmentation of collagen fibres can be initiated by extracellular matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), especially MMP-1. The anti-ageing profile of the NL GHK-Cu peptide involves inhibiting the reduction in collagen and increasing the level of MMP-1. This leads to an increase in collagen and elastin, which in turn reduces the volume and depth of wrinkles. The NL GHK-Cu peptide has a wide range of anti-wrinkle applications, suggesting ways to maximise its effectiveness. Research results ensure that the peptide's action is guaranteed by stimulating the activity of keratinocytes and fibroblasts. NL GHK-Cu induces an increase in the production of collagen VII and XVII, as well as the production of laminin, which results in better communication between the dermis and the epidermis and a strengthened cellular structure, demonstrating the rejuvenating potential of the peptide. 

THE ROLE OF NL GHK-Cu IN PROTECTING AND RECONSTRUCTING THE SKIN FROM UV RADIATION

UV radiation activates metalloproteinases, enzymes produced by fibroblasts. Their excessive activity causes the destruction of collagen fibres in the skin, resulting in a loss of firmness and the formation of deep wrinkles. Elastin fibres also become distorted, leading to elastosis, i.e. the accumulation of elastin masses in the dermis, which manifests itself in hypertrophic changes in the form of lumps and nodules on the skin. To prevent the effects of extrinsic ageing, the peptide NL GHK-Cu is used as a metalloproteinase inhibitor. NL GHK can be used as an early signalling substance for skin repair. The amino acid sequence of NL GHK is present in the alpha-2(I) chain of type I collagen, and when damage activates proteolytic enzymes, GHK is released at the site of injury. NL GHK-Cu stimulates the synthesis of collagen, selected glycosaminoglycans and small decorin proteoglycans, modulates the activity of key metalloproteinases, i.e. enzymes that facilitate the breakdown of extracellular matrix proteins, as well as the activity of anti-proteases. It participates in the regulation of protein breakdown, which is one of the theories of ageing, preventing the accumulation of damaged proteins and excessive proteolysis. The NL GHK-Cu peptide tightens loose skin, improves its elasticity, density and firmness, and reduces photo damage and mottled discolouration. 

SKIN CHANGES

Skin changes such as dermatoses, or skin diseases, are called eruptions. Very often, their appearance allows for a correct diagnosis. They can be located all over the body, occur singly or form clusters. Sometimes skin lesions are asymptomatic, but more often they are accompanied by itching, swelling, burning or redness. Skin lesions are divided into two basic types, primary and secondary. The first type are eruptions that appear in the initial phase of the disease in the epidermis or dermis. Secondary skin lesions, as the second group, are associated with the remission of the disease. 

TYPES OF SKIN LESIONS

Types of skin lesions include both genetic allergic lesions and those related to acne A. Spot: dermatosis not exceeding the level of the skin, with clearly defined edges and differing from normal tissue only in surface colour; B. Pustule: a small-diameter skin lesion that protrudes above the surface of the skin and is filled with purulent content; C. Papule: located above the surface of the skin and clearly demarcated from it; D. Blister: separation of the epidermis from the dermis, filled with serous fluid; E. Bubble: raised above healthy skin and clearly demarcated from it F. Nodule: a protrusion of the skin, which may vary in size and may be accompanied by inflammatory infiltration. 

THE ROLE OF NL GHK-Cu IN ELIMINATING AND MITIGATING SKIN CHANGES

Various types of dermatoses are treated both locally and systemically. Treatment depends on the cause of the condition, the patient's age, the location of the lesions, and the severity and stage of the disease. In the most severe cases, treatment is carried out with oral preparations, including antibiotics. Therapy to alleviate existing lesions or those of low severity, and prophylactic therapy with the use of the NL GHK-Cu peptide. The best spectrum of action is observed in systemic therapy with the adjunctive use of topical therapy. Local therapy involves the use of creams and ointments containing antifungal and anti-inflammatory substances.

SKIN DAMAGE AND WOUNDS

A wound or skin damage is defined as an anatomical break in the continuity of the outer layers and deeper tissues caused by a damaging factor. The classic characteristics of a wound include pain and bleeding. In the initial phase, a wound or cut fills with a blood clot, which acts as a natural dressing and protects against the intrusion of microorganisms. The scab that forms over the clot is a protective barrier, under which cells involved in cleaning the wound of dead cells enter. Minor wounds heal completely and leave no scars, while deep wounds heal and leave scars. The wound healing process in the skin goes through the following phases: haemostasis (blood clotting), inflammation, granulation and scar remodelling. Each stage requires well-coordinated cellular interactions and is therefore precisely orchestrated by a multitude of biologically active molecules from various sources. 

TYPES OF WOUNDS

Depending on the condition, depth and cause, wounds can be divided into specific groups A. Simple: affecting the skin or mucous membrane and small in size; B. Complex: wounds accompanied by damage to deeper structures, e.g. tendons or nerves; C. Complicated: wounds accompanied by wound infection, abscess or phlegmon. 

NL GHK-Cu IN WOUND HEALING AND SKIN REPAIR

Wound healing and skin repair involve inflammation, cell proliferation and migration, and remodelling of the skin matrix. Excessive inflammation can delay healing and lead to scarring. The copper complexes in NL GHK-Cu reduce the TNF-alpha-induced secretion of the pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-6 in normal human skin fibroblasts. Until now, the problem with treating wounds and ulcers in human skin has been the difficulty of maintaining and delivering ordinary NL GHK without a copper complex to the infected wound. Strong bacteria in wounds secrete proteases that quickly break down the free form of NL GHK and other types of healing growth factors. The NL GHK-Cu peptide solves this problem by promoting wound healing and inhibiting scar formation.

SKIN CARE

Facial care is a very important daily routine for the proper functioning of the skin. Every day, our skin is exposed to many external factors that negatively affect its condition. Polluted air, water, improperly selected skincare and makeup products, or adverse weather conditions can quickly worsen the condition of the skin. The skin begins to age after the age of 25, even if we do not notice the first changes. The effects of neglect can be permanent and difficult, or even impossible, to reverse and regenerate.

THE ROLE OF NL GHK-Cu IN SKIN CARE

Scientific research has confirmed that the use of NL GHK-Cu peptide improves the condition and texture of the skin, helping to maintain its elasticity, firmness, and radiant appearance without visible skin changes. The NL GHK-Cu peptide has a protective effect on skin exposed to harmful external factors or the process of losing water and essential nutrients. In addition, proper care, supplementation, and diet lead to healthy, slower-aging skin. 

TISSUE RECONSTRUCTION

The body is constantly undergoing dynamic tissue restructuring. Some tissues are damaged, while others are regenerated. Aging begins when, with age, the processes of decay outweigh the processes of regeneration. Over time, the naturally produced hyaluronic acid and collagen found in the skin disappear. Aging skin becomes flaccid, making it easier for wrinkles and furrows to appear. Blood vessels show through the skin, creating an unsightly effect of shadows and bruises.

THE ROLE OF NL GHK-Cu IN TISSUE REMODELING

The copper tripeptide NL GHK-Cu is useful not only in primary treatment, but also in the process of tissue remodeling, i.e., restoring the normal structure and function of damaged tissue. The peptide accelerates the distribution of keratinocytes and the proper synthesis of collagen, improves skin thickness, elasticity, and firmness, improves the appearance of wrinkles, photoaging effects, and discoloration, brightens the skin, and tightens the proteins that form the protective barrier. In addition, scarring processes are minimized and, thanks to its direct effect on fibroblasts, protein synthesis is increased. NL GHK-Cu stimulates active, multifaceted remodeling of the extracellular matrix of the skin and subcutaneous tissue, increasing its elasticity and stability with a visible effect on skin resilience. 

BALDNESS AND HAIR LOSS

The problem of baldness and hair loss affects both women and men, and its causes have similar origins and progression. This process affects our mental and physical condition, somewhat eliminating us from active social life. The causes of hair loss can relate to many aspects, and knowing them will allow us to eliminate or slow down this process as much as possible. General factors affecting hair loss include: genetic issues as congenital, hereditary causes, an improper and unbalanced diet, food intolerances that require the elimination of large food groups, comorbidities, e.g., autoimmune or endocrine disorders, iron deficiency, chronic and prolonged stress, improper hair and scalp care, exposure to harmful UV rays, age, various types of poisoning, or scalp diseases such as ringworm, dandruff, or folliculitis.

TYPES OF HAIR LOSS

1. Telogen effluvium often occurs in women and is associated with nutrient deficiencies or diseases such as complex infections, autoimmune or hormonal disorders. In this type of hair loss, the hair enters a resting phase called telogen. In this type of hair loss, the hair follicles are not permanently destroyed and new, healthy hair is produced after the hair falls out. 2. Alopecia areata usually affects young people under the age of 30. Alopecia areata is a type of autoimmune alopecia, a disease in which the cells of the human immune system attack the cells of the hair follicle, destroying the growing hair. As in the case of telogen effluvium, the hair follicle itself is not damaged and it is possible to treat the problem of hair loss, although usually after a long period of treatment. 3. Cicatricial alopecia is divided into primary and secondary. In primary alopecia of this type, inflammatory processes resulting from autoimmune issues predominate. They destroy the skin along with the hair follicle cells. Secondary scarring alopecia is the type of alopecia that most often results from mechanical injuries, burns, and infections.

NL GHK-Cu IN THE PROCESS OF HAIR LOSS AND BALDNESS

The NL GHK-Cu peptide can be used in all types of hair loss and baldness. The peptide increases the size of hair follicles, stimulates hair growth, and prevents hair loss. It has been observed that its therapeutic profile may be as effective as the preparations used to date in the treatment of baldness. It is believed that this peptide affects the hair growth cycle, specifically the third phase (telogen), which is the resting period of the hair follicle. Under its influence, the telogen phase is shortened and the anagen phase, i.e., intensive hair growth, is activated.

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