AHK-Cu
AHK-CuCopper-binding tripeptide studied in hair research.
Also known as: Copper Tripeptide-3, Ala-His-Lys Copper
Overview
AHK-Cu is a copper-binding tripeptide studied in hair-follicle, angiogenesis, and skin-research models, related to the broader copper-peptide family.
A copper-binding tripeptide (Ala-His-Lys) complexed with copper, studied primarily for hair — promoting follicle growth, increased follicle size, and improved vascularization of the scalp. A cosmetic cousin of GHK-Cu with a hair-focused research emphasis.
Delivers copper ions and is studied for stimulating vascularization and growth-factor signaling around hair follicles.
Molecular information
Ala-His-Lys : Cu²⁺The copper complex is the active cosmetic form, supporting angiogenesis and follicle signaling.
Pharmacokinetics
Illustrative relative-concentration model derived from published pharmacokinetic research. Curve is normalized and provided for educational comparison only — not a dosing schedule.
Research applications
- Hair-follicle research
- Angiogenesis studies
- Skin and scalp investigations
Observed effects timeline
Aggregated observations reported across research literature. Timing and magnitude vary by model and are not a guarantee of outcome.
Week 2–4
Scalp/skin conditioning and early follicle-support signaling reported.
Week 8–12
Hair-density and follicle-size changes reported with consistent topical use.
Research compatibility
Describes how compounds are studied alongside one another in the literature. Not a recommendation to co-administer.
GHK-Cu
Complementary copper-peptide; often combined for skin and hair.
SNAP-8
Distinct cosmetic mechanism (expression-line focus).
BPC-157
Different tissue repair mechanisms - BPC-157 promotes systemic healing while AHK-Cu targets skin/hair. Safe to use in parallel for comprehensive regeneration support
Quality indicators
Characteristic blue tint
Copper-peptide solutions are typically blue; verify labeled concentration.
Stable cosmetic form
More stable than injectable peptides; protect from light to preserve the complex.
Slight clumping
Small clumps that dissolve completely with gentle swirling are acceptable — shipping can cause minor compaction.
Collapsed or melted appearance
Powder that looks collapsed, melted, or stuck to the vial walls may have been exposed to heat in transit.
Cloudy after reconstitution
Persistent cloudiness, particles, or precipitate after gentle mixing can indicate a degraded or contaminated peptide.
Reported observations & safety
Safety signals reported in the research literature. Compiled for scientific awareness — not medical advice.
- Topical cosmetic use is generally reported as well tolerated; mild local irritation is possible.
- Evidence is largely cosmetic/preclinical; rigorous clinical hair-growth data are limited.
References & further reading
Copper tripeptides in hair and skin (review)
Review of copper-binding tripeptides and their roles in follicle support, angiogenesis, and skin conditioning.
View studyTopics
This entry is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice, a dosing protocol, or a claim of therapeutic benefit. Research compounds are supplied strictly for laboratory and research use — not for human or veterinary consumption.
Substantial peer-reviewed research across multiple models.
This compound is part of our educational reference and is not currently stocked. Browse the catalogue for available research-grade peptides.
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