AHK-Cu
Also known as: AHK-Cu, AHK Copper
AHK-Cu is the copper-bound form of the Ala-His-Lys tripeptide, used cosmetically to support hair follicles and dermal renewal.
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Mechanism of Action
AHK-Cu is the copper(II) complex of Tripeptide-3, in which the histidine and terminal amine coordinate a copper ion to form a stable signaling complex. The bound copper acts as a cofactor for enzymes such as lysyl oxidase and superoxide dismutase, and the complex is reported to stimulate dermal papilla cells and VEGF-driven angiogenesis around hair follicles. This combination of trace-metal delivery and growth-factor signaling is studied for promoting the anagen phase and supporting collagen and elastin remodeling.
- Half-life
- Topical; acts locally with negligible systemic exposure
- Administration Routes
- topical
- Research Status
- Research Chemical
Reported Benefits
- May promote hair follicle growth signaling via VEGF
- Delivers copper as a cofactor for matrix-remodeling enzymes
- Studied for collagen and elastin support
- May improve dermal microcirculation
- Often paired with GHK-Cu in cosmetic formulations
Potential Side Effects
- Possible local irritation, redness, or itching
- Temporary blue tint from the copper complex
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis
Common Dosing
For cosmetic research use only: typically formulated at low concentrations (roughly 0.5-2%) in 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 copper sensitivity or Wilson's disease
- Application to broken or inflamed skin
- Hypersensitivity to formulation excipients
AHK (Tripeptide-3)
AHK is a copper-affinity tripeptide (Ala-His-Lys) studied as a cosmetic signaling peptide for hair and skin support.
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-GHK (Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1)
Pal-GHK (Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1) is a lipidated derivative of the well-known GHK matrikine, engineered with a palmitic acid tail to enhance skin penetration. It is widely used in topical anti-aging and collagen-boosting cosmetics.
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.