AHK-Cu
Also known as: Copper Tripeptide-3, Alanine-Histidine-Lysine Copper Complex
Hair Growth Copper Peptide | Dermal Papilla Stimulator
Overview
Synthetic copper-binding tripeptide targeting dermal papilla cells and hair follicles. Stimulates hair follicle elongation, promotes cell proliferation, increases VEGF production, and inhibits TGF-β1. Supports skin regeneration through fibroblast activation and collagen synthesis.
Key benefits
- Hair follicle elongation stimulation
- Dermal papilla cell proliferation
- VEGF upregulation for improved scalp circulation
- TGF-β1 reduction (counters DHT effects)
- Anti-apoptotic protection for follicles
- Collagen synthesis support
- Convenient topical application
- Fibroblast activation for skin regeneration
Mechanism of action
AHK-Cu penetrates scalp delivering copper directly to dermal papilla cells. Activates proliferation pathways, elevates Bcl-2/Bax ratio (anti-apoptotic), increases VEGF for blood flow, reduces TGF-β1, and promotes SOD production for oxidative stress reduction.
Molecular data
- Type
- Copper tripeptide complex
- Half-life
- Not established
Sequence
L-Alanyl-L-Histidyl-L-Lysine (Ala-His-Lys)
Indications
What the research community uses this compound for, with self-reported effectiveness.
Hair Growth
Hair Follicle Elongation
Most effectiveEx vivo studies demonstrate AHK-Cu stimulates human hair follicle elongation at concentrations as low as 10⁻¹² M, promoting longer anagen phase.
Dermal Papilla Cell Proliferation
Most effectiveIncreases proliferation of dermal papilla cells, the key regulatory cells for hair follicle cycling and hair growth.
VEGF Upregulation
Most effectiveBoosts vascular endothelial growth factor production, improving blood flow and nutrient delivery to hair follicles.
Anti-DHT Mechanism
Most effectiveReduces TGF-β1 secretion and oxidative stress (via SOD), both contributing to DHT-induced follicle miniaturization.
Skin Regeneration
Fibroblast Stimulation
EffectiveActivates fibroblast proliferation and collagen synthesis for improved skin structure and wound healing.
Anti-Apoptotic Effects
EffectiveElevates Bcl-2/Bax ratio and reduces caspase-3 activation, protecting cells from programmed death.
Extracellular Matrix Support
EffectivePromotes collagen and ECM component deposition for tissue renewal and repair.
Dosing protocols
Common protocols by delivery method. Adjust the curve below to model accumulation in your own cycle.
Topical
Primary and most researched delivery route. Penetrates scalp and skin to target dermal papilla cells and fibroblasts. Most effective for hair growth and skin regeneration applications.
| Protocol | Dose | Frequency | Route / duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hair Growth - Scalp Application | 0.5-1% solution/serum | Once or twice daily | Topical to scalp |
| Hair Growth - Combined Protocol | 0.3-0.5% AHK-Cu with minoxidil | Once or twice daily | Topical to scalp |
| Skin Regeneration | 0.3-1% in serum/cream | Once or twice daily | Topical to skin |
| DIY Formulation | Add 0.3-1% to water phase | Cool-down phase (<40°C) | Custom formulation |
Preparation
You will need
- AHK-Cu powder (99% purity)
- Distilled water or suitable carrier (alcohol-free)
- pH meter or strips (target pH 5.5-7.0)
- Dark glass dropper bottle for storage
- Sterile work surface
Steps
- Calculate amount needed for desired concentration (e.g., 100mg for 1% in 10mL)
- Dissolve AHK-Cu powder in distilled water or water phase of formulation
- Verify pH is between 5.5-7.0 - adjust if necessary (avoid pH below 5)
- Add to cool-down phase of formulation (<40°C / 104°F) - heat degrades peptide
- Mix gently until fully incorporated - do not shake vigorously
- Transfer to dark glass container to protect from light
- Store refrigerated at 2-8°C
- Use within 30 days of preparation
Work out the water volume and syringe units in the reconstitution calculator →
Injectable
Limited research compared to topical. Some practitioners use injectable AHK-Cu via mesotherapy (microinjections) for scalp and facial rejuvenation.
| Protocol | Dose | Frequency | Route / duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mesotherapy - Scalp (Practitioner) | 0.1-0.5 mg per injection site | Weekly sessions | Intradermal microinjections |
| Research Protocol | 1-5 mg | 2-3 times weekly | SubQ |
Preparation
You will need
- AHK-Cu lyophilized powder (pharmaceutical grade)
- Bacteriostatic water for injection
- Insulin syringes (29-31 gauge)
- Alcohol prep pads
Steps
- Use only pharmaceutical-grade AHK-Cu for injection
- Reconstitute with bacteriostatic water to desired concentration
- Verify solution is clear with characteristic light blue color
- Filter through 0.22 μm sterile filter before use
- Store refrigerated at 2-8°C
- Use within 14-21 days of reconstitution
Work out the water volume and syringe units in the reconstitution calculator →
Interactions
Pairwise interactions with other compounds you might be cycling — the same data behind the cycle builder's safety check.
Copper Supplements
AvoidRisk of copper toxicity when combined with additional copper sources. Monitor total copper intake.
Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid)
MonitorLow pH of ascorbic acid can destabilize copper peptides. Use at different times.
AHA/BHA Acids
MonitorAcidic exfoliants can destabilize copper peptide complexes. Use at different times.
Retinol/Retinoids
MonitorBoth are potent actives that can cause irritation. Introduce slowly or use at different times.
GHK-Cu
SynergisticComplementary copper peptides targeting different aspects of tissue regeneration. GHK-Cu excels at skin repair while AHK-Cu targets hair follicles.
Minoxidil
SynergisticBoth promote hair growth via different mechanisms - minoxidil via potassium channel opening and vasodilation, AHK-Cu via dermal papilla stimulation.
Finasteride/Dutasteride
Synergistic5-alpha reductase inhibitors block DHT production while AHK-Cu may help counter DHT effects on follicles.
BPC-157
CompatibleDifferent tissue repair mechanisms - BPC-157 promotes systemic healing while AHK-Cu targets skin/hair.
Hyaluronic Acid
SynergisticExcellent combination - hyaluronic acid provides hydration and supports peptide penetration.
Timeline
Typical week-by-week effects reported in clinical and observational data.
- Week 1-2
No visible changes; peptide is working at cellular level
- Week 2-4
Some users report reduced hair shedding; scalp may feel healthier
- Month 1-2
Vellus (fine) hairs may begin appearing in thinning areas
- Month 2-3
New growth becoming visible; existing hairs may appear thicker
- Month 3-4
Noticeable improvement in hair density and quality
- Month 4-6
Significant results visible; continued improvement expected
- Month 6-12
Full results achieved with consistent use
Safety
Reported adverse effects, contraindications, and what to monitor on cycle.
Common side effects
- Generally well-tolerated with excellent safety profile in topical applications
- Rare scalp irritation (patch test recommended)
- Potential for mild redness on sensitive skin
Stop signs — stop and seek advice
- Persistent scalp irritation, itching, or burning
- Allergic reaction: rash, hives, swelling
- Increased hair shedding that doesn't improve after 4-6 weeks
- Signs of copper sensitivity: metallic taste, nausea
- Skin discoloration at application site
- Any unexpected adverse reactions
Contraindications
- Not for use on broken or infected skin
- Avoid eye area - may cause irritation
- Do not use if allergic to copper or peptides
- Not recommended during acute skin infections
Monitoring
- Avoid use with acidic products (AHAs, BHAs, Vitamin C) - use at different times
- Do not combine with additional copper supplements - risk of copper toxicity
- Keep pH between 5.5-7.0 for stability and skin compatibility
- Store properly - degrades with heat, light, and improper pH
- Patch test before full application if sensitive skin
Quality checks
What a legitimate product looks like, what should give pause, and what should make you stop.
Good signs
- Light blue powder - characteristic color from copper complex
- 99%+ purity with COA - pharmaceutical/cosmetic grade
- Proper copper complexation - dissolves to clear light blue solution
- pH-stable formulation - between 5.5-7.0
Warning signs
- Liposomal delivery preferred for enhanced penetration and stability
Stop signs — don't use
- Discolored or degraded appearance - brown, green, or colorless indicates degradation
- pH below 5.0 - destabilizes copper peptide complex
Recent research
Newer papers and trial readouts on file for this compound, with source and date.
March 2025 · Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology
Enhanced hair regrowth with minoxidil-dutasteride-copper peptides tattooing for androgenetic alopecia
Five monthly sessions of minoxidil-dutasteride-copper peptides tattooing showed enhanced hair regrowth for androgenetic alopecia, assessed by AI and blinded evaluators.
December 2024 · International Journal of Molecular Sciences
Palmitoyl copper peptide and acetyl tyrosine complex enhances melanin production
Novel palmitoyl copper peptide formulation enhances melanin production in both A375 and B16 cell lines, demonstrating continued innovation in copper peptide applications.
References
Primary literature and clinical-trial data informing this entry.
The effect of tripeptide-copper complex on human hair growth in vitro
Pyo HK, Yoo HG, Won CH, Lee SH, Kang YJ, Eun HC, Cho KH, Kim KH · Archives of Pharmaceutical Research · 2007
AHK-Cu (10⁻¹² to 10⁻⁹ M) stimulated human hair follicle elongation ex vivo and dermal papilla cell proliferation in vitro. Elevated Bcl-2/Bax ratio and reduced cleaved caspase-3/PARP levels indicate anti-apoptotic mechanism. Also increased VEGF production and decreased TGF-β1 secretion.
Effects of copper tripeptide on the growth and expression of growth factors by normal and irradiated fibroblasts
Canapp SO Jr, Farese JP, Schultz GS, Gowda S, Ishak AM, Swaim SF, Vangilov J, Lee-Ambrose L, Martin FG · Wound Repair and Regeneration · 2005
Copper tripeptide (GHK-Cu) accelerates growth of normal and irradiated fibroblasts. Early increase in bFGF and VEGF production by treated fibroblasts; normal and keloid-producing fibroblasts treated with copper tripeptide secreted less TGF-β1.
Human skin penetration of a copper tripeptide in vitro as a function of skin layer
Mazurowska L, Mojski M · Skin Pharmacology and Physiology · 2010
Copper tripeptide permeated through dermatomed skin with coefficient of 2.43 × 10⁻⁴ cm/h. 136.2 μg/cm² copper permeated over 48h while 97 μg/cm² retained as depot, demonstrating therapeutically effective amounts for topical delivery.
Thermodynamically stable ionic liquid microemulsions pioneer pathways for topical delivery and peptide application
Sikorska C et al. · International Journal of Pharmaceutics · 2023
Novel delivery system using thermodynamically stable ionic liquid microemulsions to improve topical delivery and stability of copper tripeptides including AHK-Cu.
Last updated . How this page was sourced is described in the methodology.