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
415.94 g/mol
Amino Acid Sequence
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
View AllAcetyl Hexapeptide-8
Skin & HairMarketed topical cosmetic ingredient (INCI: Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 / Argireline). Supported by small human anti-wrinkle studies, including one randomized, placebo-controlled trial; no systemic or injectable clinical development. Not an FDA-approved drug.Acetyl 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
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Minoxidil
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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).
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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)
Molecular Weight
415.94 g/mol
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 & HairMarketed topical cosmetic ingredient (INCI: Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 / Argireline). Supported by small human anti-wrinkle studies, including one randomized, placebo-controlled trial; no systemic or injectable clinical development. Not an FDA-approved drug.Acetyl 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 & HairDiscontinued (early clinical)A synthetic melanocortin receptor agonist studied for skin tanning, sexual function, and appetite suppression..
Minoxidil
Skin & HairFDA-ApprovedMinoxidil is an FDA-approved treatment for pattern hair loss.
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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