AHK (Tripeptide-3)
Also known as: AHK, Tripeptide-3
AHK is a copper-affinity tripeptide (Ala-His-Lys) studied as a cosmetic signaling peptide for hair and skin support.
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Mechanism of Action
AHK (Alanine-Histidine-Lysine, Tripeptide-3) is a histidine-containing tripeptide that can chelate copper ions and act as a signaling peptide at the dermal level. It is reported to stimulate dermal papilla fibroblasts and upregulate vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), promoting microvascular support around the hair follicle. By improving the follicular microenvironment and matrix protein synthesis, it is studied for extending the anagen growth phase and supporting collagen remodeling in skin.
- Half-life
- Topical; acts locally with negligible systemic exposure
- Administration Routes
- topical
- Research Status
- Research Chemical
Reported Benefits
- May support hair follicle health and growth signaling
- Reported to upregulate VEGF and dermal microcirculation
- Studied for promoting collagen and matrix synthesis
- Generally well tolerated in topical formulations
- Copper-affinity activity similar to GHK peptides
Potential Side Effects
- Possible local irritation or redness
- Rare allergic contact reactions
- Limited clinical efficacy data
Common Dosing
For cosmetic research use only: typically formulated at low concentrations (roughly 0.5-2%) in topical serums applied once or twice daily. Not personal medical advice.
The dosing information above is aggregated from research literature and anecdotal community reports for educational purposes only. It is not a recommendation, prescription, or medical advice. Peptides are sold as research chemicals only and are not intended for human use.
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to the peptide or formulation
- Application to broken or inflamed skin
AHK-Cu
AHK-Cu is the copper-bound form of the Ala-His-Lys tripeptide, used cosmetically to support hair follicles and dermal renewal.
GHK (Basic) (Tripeptide-1)
GHK is a naturally occurring human tripeptide (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine) studied for skin remodeling, wound healing, and tissue regeneration. The copper-free 'basic' form is the parent peptide that readily binds copper in tissue.
Pal-AHK
Pal-AHK (Palmitoyl Tripeptide-3) is a lipidated cosmetic peptide combining the alanine-histidine-lysine sequence with a palmitic acid tail for improved skin penetration. It is used topically in anti-aging and skin-firming formulations.