What volume of sterile, bacteriostatic water should be used to reconstitute a 50mg vial of GHK-Cu (Glycyl-Histidyl-Lysine-Copper) peptide for cosmetic or dermatological use?

Reconstitution Volume for GHK-Cu Peptide

For a 50mg vial of GHK-Cu peptide, add 5mL of bacteriostatic water to achieve a standard 10mg/mL concentration, which is the most commonly used concentration for cosmetic and dermatological applications.

Reconstitution Protocol

Standard Concentration Calculation

• The 10mg/mL concentration (achieved by adding 5mL to 50mg) provides a practical dosing range that aligns with typical subcutaneous or topical application protocols 1
• This concentration allows for precise dosing adjustments: each 0.1mL contains 1mg of GHK-Cu 1
• Alternative concentrations can be prepared based on specific protocols, but 10mg/mL represents the most versatile starting point 1

Sterile Technique Requirements

All reconstitution must follow strict aseptic protocols to prevent contamination:

• Sanitize the vial stopper with 70% isopropanol before needle puncture 2
• Use only sterile needles and syringes, avoiding any direct contact contamination 2
• Thoroughly wash hands to wrists with detergent or soap and potable water, or use 70% isopropanol sanitizing agents 2
• Prepare in a clean, sanitized area treated with 70% isopropanol 2

Reconstitution Steps

• Draw 5mL of bacteriostatic water into a sterile syringe 2, 1
• Inject the bacteriostatic water slowly into the 50mg peptide vial, directing the stream against the vial wall rather than directly onto the powder 1
• Gently swirl (do not shake vigorously) until the powder is completely dissolved 1
• Perform visual inspection for particulate matter, discoloration, or cloudiness before use 1
• Label the vial clearly with the concentration (10mg/mL), reconstitution date, and beyond-use date 2

Storage and Stability

Post-Reconstitution Storage

• Store reconstituted GHK-Cu at 4°C (refrigerated) to maximize stability 1
• Bacteriostatic water contains preservatives that extend multi-dose vial stability, but refrigeration is still recommended 1
• Discard if any visible particulates, cloudiness, or discoloration develops 1

Important Caveats

Concentration Flexibility

• If your specific protocol requires a different concentration, adjust the volume accordingly using the formula: Volume (mL) = Dose (mg) ÷ Desired Concentration (mg/mL) 1
• For example, 2.5mL would yield 20mg/mL for more concentrated dosing 1

Quality Considerations

• GHK-Cu (with copper) has demonstrated superior biological activity compared to copper-free GHK in wound healing and tissue remodeling applications 3, 4
• The copper chelate form enhances antioxidant and anti-inflammatory bioavailability 5
• Ensure your peptide source is pharmaceutical grade and intended for the specific application (cosmetic vs. research) 6

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Never use sterile water without preservatives for multi-dose vials, as this increases contamination risk 2
• Avoid vigorous shaking, which can denature the peptide structure 1
• Do not use if the solution appears cloudy or contains visible particles after reconstitution 1
• Maintain a preparation log documenting the reconstitution date, lot numbers, and expiration dates 2