AHK-Cu (Copper Tripeptide-3)
Hair Growth Copper Peptide | Dermal Papilla Stimulator
Community Research
Join others researching AHK-Cu — share findings, ask questions, and learn from real experiences
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.
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
L-Alanyl-L-Histidyl-L-Lysine (Ala-His-Lys) Complex or non-standard sequence format
Research Indications
Ex vivo studies demonstrate AHK-Cu stimulates human hair follicle elongation at concentrations as low as 10⁻¹² M, promoting longer anagen phase.
Increases proliferation of dermal papilla cells, the key regulatory cells for hair follicle cycling and hair growth.
Boosts vascular endothelial growth factor production, improving blood flow and nutrient delivery to hair follicles.
Reduces TGF-β1 secretion and oxidative stress (via SOD), both contributing to DHT-induced follicle miniaturization.
Activates fibroblast proliferation and collagen synthesis for improved skin structure and wound healing.
Elevates Bcl-2/Bax ratio and reduces caspase-3 activation, protecting cells from programmed death.
Promotes collagen and ECM component deposition for tissue renewal and repair.
Dosing Protocols
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
Interactions
What to Expect
Side Effects & Safety
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
Quality Checklist
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
References
- The effect of tripeptide-copper complex on human hair growth in vitroPyo HK, Yoo HG, Won CH, Lee SH, Kang YJ, Eun HC, Cho KH, Kim KHArchives 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 fibroblastsCanapp SO Jr, Farese JP, Schultz GS, Gowda S, Ishak AM, Swaim SF, Vangilov J, Lee-Ambrose L, Martin FGWound 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 layerMazurowska L, Mojski MSkin 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 applicationSikorska 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.
Related Peptides
Disclaimer
This information is for educational and research purposes only. Consult a healthcare professional before use.