Copper Peptide AHK-Cu
Copper Peptide / Cosmetic PeptideresearchAlso known as: AHK-Cu, Alanine-Histidine-Lysine Copper, Tripeptide-3 Copper, Copper Tripeptide AHK
A copper-binding tripeptide that stimulates collagen production, promotes hair follicle growth, and supports wound healing, offering similar but distinct benefits to the more well-known GHK-Cu.
Overview
AHK-Cu (Ala-His-Lys-Cu) is a synthetic copper-binding tripeptide closely related to GHK-Cu but with a different amino acid sequence — alanine replaces glycine at the first position. Like GHK-Cu, it chelates copper(II) ions and delivers them to tissues where they serve as cofactors for enzymes critical to collagen synthesis, antioxidant defense, and tissue remodeling. AHK-Cu has gained particular attention for its hair growth-promoting properties, with studies showing it can stimulate hair follicle proliferation and increase hair follicle size. It is used in both topical skincare formulations and as an injectable peptide in regenerative medicine. While less extensively studied than GHK-Cu, AHK-Cu shows promising activity in stimulating dermal fibroblast production of collagen and glycosaminoglycans, and may have superior hair growth activity compared to its more famous cousin.
Mechanism of Action
AHK-Cu functions through copper delivery and peptide signaling: (1) The tripeptide chelates Cu²⁺ ions and facilitates their transport into cells where copper serves as a cofactor for lysyl oxidase (collagen cross-linking), superoxide dismutase (antioxidant defense), and cytochrome c oxidase (mitochondrial function); (2) It stimulates dermal fibroblasts to increase production of type I and III collagen, elastin, and glycosaminoglycans; (3) In hair follicles, it promotes proliferation of dermal papilla cells and extends the anagen (growth) phase; (4) It modulates extracellular matrix remodeling by influencing MMP/TIMP balance; (5) The copper component provides antimicrobial activity against common skin pathogens.
Molecular Formula
C13H23CuN5O4
Molecular Weight
376.9 g/mol
Sequence
Ala-His-Lys-Cu(II)
Dosage Protocols
Dose Range
1% – 5%
Frequency
Once or twice daily
Route
topical
Cycle Length
Ongoing (minimum 12-16 weeks for visible results)
Apply to scalp directly. Can be compounded into solutions or found in specialty hair products. Often combined with other growth factors.
Source: Dermatological research protocols
🧮 Personalized Dosage Calculator
💰 Estimated Pricing
Typical Supply
50mg vial
Last Updated
2026-02
Copper peptide variant for skin/hair. Available from cosmetic peptide suppliers.
⚠️ Prices are estimates based on publicly available data and may vary significantly by vendor, location, and prescription status. This is not medical or financial advice.
Side Effects
| Effect | Severity |
|---|---|
| Skin discoloration | mild |
| Skin irritation | mild |
| Injection site reaction | mild |
Pros & Cons
Demonstrated hair follicle growth stimulation — may be superior to GHK-Cu for hair applications
Dual benefit: skin rejuvenation and hair growth from a single peptide
Available in topical formulations — no injections required for most use cases
Excellent safety profile with minimal side effects
Less studied than GHK-Cu — smaller body of published research
Results are gradual and require months of consistent use
Limited availability compared to GHK-Cu products
Research Studies
🩸 Blood Work
No specific bloodwork requirements reported for this peptide. General health panels are always recommended before starting any peptide protocol.
Legal Status
Available in cosmetic formulations and as a research peptide. Not FDA-approved as a drug. Widely used in skincare products. No prescription required for topical products.
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