AHK-Cu
Also known as: Ala-His-Lys-Cu
Molecular Identifiers
Molecular Formula
C15H25CuN6O4
CAS Number
682809-81-0
PubChem CID
169450582Molecular Weight
416.9 Da
Overview
Copper tripeptide variant of GHK-Cu with alanine replacing glycine. Researched for its hair growth stimulation properties, collagen synthesis, and skin anti-aging effects.
AHK-Cu is studied mainly for its affinity to the hair follicle: the chelated copper favors signaling involved in the anagen phase of hair growth, scalp vascularization, and growth factor modulation. In parallel, it contributes to collagen and elastin synthesis, with a complementary dermal remodeling effect.
It currently circulates mostly in topical cosmetic formulations — hair serums, tonics, and ampoules — often combined with GHK-Cu. In some markets, compounding pharmacies prepare versions for subcutaneous scalp use, without regulatory approval as a medication. It is a photosensitive compound, which requires specific storage and formulation precautions to preserve the stability of the copper complex.
Within the copper peptide family, AHK-Cu is distinguished from GHK-Cu — the gold standard in copper-based dermal cosmetics — by its focus on hair follicle and hair growth. The two are often combined in hair formulations, adding dermal and follicular stimulation. Pal-GHK and base GHK, without chelated copper, do not share this specific hair orientation and are aimed at dermal remodeling.
AHK Ala-His-Lys Half-life
~2-4 hours
Administration Route
Topical or subcutaneous
Category
Cosmetic & Skin
Mechanism of Action
- Stimulation of hair growth via follicle activation
- Promotion of collagen and elastin synthesis
- Anti-aging activity and dermal remodeling
- Increased scalp vascularization
- Modulation of hair-related growth factors
Dosage Protocol
Data compiled from the literature. This does not constitute medical advice.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Dose | Topical or 200-500 mcg subcutaneous |
| Frequency | 1-2 times daily (topical), every other day (subcutaneous) |
| Timing | Preferably at night |
| Duration | 8-12 weeks |
Reported Side Effects
Adverse effects described in the literature. Severity and frequency vary between individuals.
- Local irritation
- Redness
- Skin sensitivity
Product Properties
| Purity | >98% |
| Appearance | Blue-violet lyophilized powder (photosensitive copper complex) |
| Solubility | Soluble in water and bacteriostatic water |
| Source | Solid-phase peptide synthesis (SPPS) with copper complexation |
| Storage | Lyophilized: -20°C for up to 2 years, 2-8°C for up to 6 months. Reconstituted: 2-8°C for up to 2 weeks. Protect from light (photosensitive). Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles. |
Presentations & Preparation
Vials of AHK-Cu found in the research market:
Reconstitution
- Diluent: Bacteriostatic water
- Volume: 2 ml per vial
- Slowly inject the diluent along the vial wall
- Gently swirl until fully dissolved
- Never shake
Storage
- Lyophilized: Refrigerated 2-8°C
- Reconstituted: Refrigerated 2-8°C (up to 30 days)
- Protect from direct light
- Do not freeze after reconstitution
Scientific Studies
Published studies on AHK-Cu.
Related Peptides
Acetyl Octapeptide-1
Topical 3-5% · Twice daily
Argireline
Topical 5-10% or 100-250 mcg subcutaneous · Topical twice daily, subcutaneous 2-3x per week
Decapeptide-12
Topical application · 1-2 times daily
GHK Basic
Topical or 200-600 mcg subcutaneous · 1-2 times daily (topical), every other day (subcutaneous)
Matrixyl
Topical application · 1-2 times daily
Melanotan I
0.5-1 mg per injection · Every other day (loading phase), weekly (maintenance)