AHK-Cu
Hair Growth Copper Peptide | Dermal Papilla Stimulator
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.
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.
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
L-Alanyl-L-Histidyl-L-Lysine (Ala-His-Lys) Complex or non-standard sequence format
Hair Growth
- Hair Follicle Elongation
Ex 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
Increases proliferation of dermal papilla cells, the key regulatory cells for hair follicle cycling and hair growth.
- VEGF Upregulation
Boosts vascular endothelial growth factor production, improving blood flow and nutrient delivery to hair follicles.
- Anti-DHT Mechanism
Reduces TGF-β1 secretion and oxidative stress (via SOD), both contributing to DHT-induced follicle miniaturization.
Skin Regeneration
- Fibroblast Stimulation
Activates fibroblast proliferation and collagen synthesis for improved skin structure and wound healing.
- Anti-Apoptotic Effects
Elevates Bcl-2/Bax ratio and reduces caspase-3 activation, protecting cells from programmed death.
- Extracellular Matrix Support
Promotes collagen and ECM component deposition for tissue renewal and repair.
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.
| Goal | Dose | Frequency | Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| 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 |
Reconstitution Instructions
- 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
- 1 Calculate amount needed for desired concentration (e.g., 100mg for 1% in 10mL)
- 2 Dissolve AHK-Cu powder in distilled water or water phase of formulation
- 3 Verify pH is between 5.5-7.0 - adjust if necessary (avoid pH below 5)
- 4 Add to cool-down phase of formulation (<40°C / 104°F) - heat degrades peptide
- 5 Mix gently until fully incorporated - do not shake vigorously
- 6 Transfer to dark glass container to protect from light
- 7 Store refrigerated at 2-8°C
- 8 Use within 30 days of preparation
Complementary copper peptides targeting different aspects of tissue regeneration. GHK-Cu excels at skin repair while AHK-Cu targets hair follicles.
Both promote hair growth via different mechanisms - minoxidil via potassium channel opening and vasodilation, AHK-Cu via dermal papilla stimulation.
5-alpha reductase inhibitors block DHT production while AHK-Cu may help counter DHT effects on follicles.
Risk of copper toxicity when combined with additional copper sources. Monitor total copper intake.
Different tissue repair mechanisms - BPC-157 promotes systemic healing while AHK-Cu targets skin/hair.
Low pH of ascorbic acid can destabilize copper peptides. Use at different times.
Acidic exfoliants can destabilize copper peptide complexes. Use at different times.
Both are potent actives that can cause irritation. Introduce slowly or use at different times.
Excellent combination - hyaluronic acid provides hydration and supports peptide penetration.
No visible changes; peptide is working at cellular level
Some users report reduced hair shedding; scalp may feel healthier
Vellus (fine) hairs may begin appearing in thinning areas
New growth becoming visible; existing hairs may appear thicker
Noticeable improvement in hair density and quality
Significant results visible; continued improvement expected
Full results achieved with consistent use
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 - Discontinue if:
- 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
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
Bad Signs
- Discolored or degraded appearance - brown, green, or colorless indicates degradation
- pH below 5.0 - destabilizes copper peptide complex
- Tripeptide-Copper Complex Effect on Human Hair Growth In Vitro(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.
- Copper Tripeptide Effects on VEGF and TGF-β1(N/A)
Copper tripeptide complexes increase VEGF production while decreasing TGF-β1 secretion by dermal fibroblasts.
- Human Skin Penetration of Copper Tripeptide In Vitro(N/A)
Evaluated transdermal delivery of copper tripeptide, demonstrating penetration through skin layers with potential for topical therapeutic applications.
- Ionic Liquid Microemulsions for Topical Peptide Delivery(2023)
Novel delivery system using thermodynamically stable ionic liquid microemulsions to improve topical delivery and stability of copper tripeptides.
Disclaimer
This information is for educational and research purposes only. Consult a healthcare professional before use.