AHK-Cu
Skin & HairPreclinicalAlso known as: Copper Tripeptide-2, Ala-His-Lys-Cu, AHK Copper Peptide, Copper Tripeptide AHK
AHK-Cu (Ala-His-Lys-Copper) is a copper chelating tripeptide related to but distinct from GHK-Cu (Gly-His-Lys-Copper). Where GHK-Cu is the most-studied copper peptide and naturally occurs in human plasma, AHK-Cu is a synthetic structural analog with enhanced copper-chelating affinity.
Overview
At A Glance
AHK-Cu delivers bioavailable copper ions to follicular and dermal tissues. Copper acts as a cofactor for lysyl oxidase (collagen/elastin crosslinking), superoxide dismutase (antioxidant), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) signaling. The tripeptide backbone penetrates …
Overview
AHK-Cu (Ala-His-Lys-Copper) is a copper chelating tripeptide related to but distinct from GHK-Cu (Gly-His-Lys-Copper). Where GHK-Cu is the most-studied copper peptide and naturally occurs in human plasma, AHK-Cu is a synthetic structural analog with enhanced copper-chelating affinity. Both peptides activate hair follicle stem cells and promote keratinocyte proliferation, but AHK-Cu appears to have stronger follicle-stimulating activity in some preclinical comparisons. Research applications center on androgenetic alopecia, scalp vascularity, and wound healing, typically in topical formulations or via mesotherapy injection. AHK-Cu is used in cosmetic compounding for scalp treatments targeting hair miniaturization.
Chemical Information
IUPAC Name
Not yet available
CAS Number
Not yet available
Molecular Formula
Not yet available
Molecular Mass
Not yet available
Chemical data is being compiled for this compound.
Dosing & Protocols
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Research
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Interactions
Interaction and contraindication data is being compiled for AHK-Cu. Check back soon.
General Safety Note
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before combining research compounds. Interactions may exist that are not yet documented.
$63.00
up to $93.00
$0.0650
1
3
vial, powder
| Vendor | Product | Form | Qty | Price | $/mg | Coupon | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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AHK-Cu 50mg | vial | 1 vial● Out of Stock | $63.00BEST | $1.260 | — | Sign in for stock alert |
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AHK-Cu Raw 1g | powder | 1g● In Stock | $65.00VALUE | $0.065 | — | |
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AHK-Cu 100mg | vial | 1 vial● In Stock | $93.00 | $0.930 | — |
Tracking since Apr 22, 2026 · 3 data points
Vendors Selling AHK-Cu
How we score these vendors
Every supplier above is graded 0–100 on COA verification, payment transparency, shipping, reviews, and active listings. Methodology published, no pay-to-rank.
Related Compounds
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PDRN
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Snap-8
Skin & HairPreclinicalSnap-8 (INCI: Acetyl Glutamyl Heptapeptide-1) is a synthetic octapeptide designed as an analog of the N-terminal fragment of synaptosomal-associated protein of 25 kDa (SNAP-25), which is the molecular target of botulinum toxin A (Botox).
Side-by-Side Comparisons
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Protocols, calculator & safety for AHK-Cu
Research Score
0 PubMed studies
Quality Indicators
Data Completeness
63%Quick Facts
Half-Life
Unknown (topical half-life, follicular retention not well characterized)
Administration
Topical, Subcutaneous, Intradermal
Trial Phase
Preclinical
Safety Profile
Common Side Effects
- • Mild scalp irritation at high concentrations (>1%)
- • Temporary skin discoloration with copper accumulation
Research Disclaimer
This information is for educational and research purposes only. Not intended as medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional before use.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is AHK-Cu used for in research?
AHK-Cu (Ala-His-Lys-Copper) is a copper chelating tripeptide related to but distinct from GHK-Cu (Gly-His-Lys-Copper). Where GHK-Cu is the most-studied copper peptide and naturally occurs in human plasma, AHK-Cu is a synthetic structural analog with enhanced copper-chelating affinity. Both peptides activate hair follicle stem cells and promote keratinocyte proliferation, but AHK-Cu appears to have stronger follicle-stimulating activity in some preclinical comparisons. Research applications center on androgenetic alopecia, scalp vascularity, and wound healing, typically in topical formulations or via mesotherapy injection. AHK-Cu is used in cosmetic compounding for scalp treatments targeting hair miniaturization.
What forms does AHK-Cu come in?
AHK-Cu is available in vial, powder forms.
How much does AHK-Cu cost?
Prices start at $63.00 across 1 verified vendor.
How do I compare AHK-Cu vendors?
Compare prices, payment methods, shipping, and COA scores across 1 vendor.
Research Tools
Related Compounds
View AllAcetyl Hexapeptide-8
Skin & HairPreclinicalAcetyl Hexapeptide-8 (INCI: Acetyl Hexapeptide-3 in older nomenclature, commercially known as Argireline) is a synthetic hexapeptide designed as a competitive inhibitor of the SNARE complex at the neuromuscular junction.
Melanotan 2
Skin & HairPhase IIA synthetic melanocortin receptor agonist studied for skin tanning, sexual function, and appetite suppression..
Minoxidil
Skin & HairPreclinicalFDA-approved topical vasodilator used for hair regrowth.
PDRN
Skin & HairPhase 4PDRN (Polydeoxyribonucleotide) is a biotechnological compound derived from salmon sperm DNA (Oncorhynchus mykiss) through extraction, purification, and fractionation.
Snap-8
Skin & HairPreclinicalSnap-8 (INCI: Acetyl Glutamyl Heptapeptide-1) is a synthetic octapeptide designed as an analog of the N-terminal fragment of synaptosomal-associated protein of 25 kDa (SNAP-25), which is the molecular target of botulinum toxin A (Botox).
Side-by-Side Comparisons
All ComparisonsCompare AHK-Cu head-to-head: mechanism, half-life, dosing, safety, and live pricing.
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