AHK-Cu vs GHK-Cu Topical
A side-by-side research comparison of AHK-Cu and GHK-Cu Topical across mechanism, dosing, half-life, benefits, side effects and research status.
Comparison table
| Attribute | AHK-Cu | GHK-Cu Topical |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | AHK-Cu (Alanine-Histidine-Lysine Copper Peptide) | GHK-Cu Copper Peptide (Topical/Scalp) |
| Category | Hair Growth | Hair Growth |
| Status | Cosmetic research peptide | Cosmetic / Research compound |
| Mechanism | Delivers copper to tissue and signals angiogenesis and growth-factor activity (notably VEGF) around hair follicles, promoting follicle vascularization, prolonging the anagen (growth) phase, and supporting collagen production. | Activates genes for hair growth including VEGF, FGF, and nerve growth factor at the follicular level. Stimulates dermal papilla cell proliferation. Extends anagen phase via Wnt/β-catenin pathway activation. Delivers copper for lysyl oxidase (collagen cross-linking). |
| Molecular weight | ~403 Da (with copper) | 403.92 Da (with Cu) |
| Half-life | Topical (local action) | ~2-4 hours (topical depot at scalp) |
| Bioavailability | Topical (serum/solution); local delivery | Topical penetration to dermal papilla |
| Typical dose | ~0.5-2 mg/mL topical serum | 1-2 mg/mL in scalp solution or serum |
| Frequency | 1-2x daily on scalp | Daily application |
| Route | Topical | Topical scalp serum or mesotherapy injection |
AHK-Cu reported benefits
- Hair follicle support and growth signaling
- Follicle vascularization (VEGF)
- Prolongs anagen growth phase
- Collagen and skin support
- Antioxidant copper delivery
GHK-Cu Topical reported benefits
- Follicle stem cell activation
- Increased hair follicle size
- Scalp angiogenesis
- Collagen remodeling in scalp
- Compatible with all other treatments
- Anti-inflammatory for scalp
Related comparisons
Research and educational reference only. Not medical advice.