AHK-Cu vs RU-58841
A side-by-side research comparison of AHK-Cu and RU-58841 across mechanism, dosing, half-life, benefits, side effects and research status.
Comparison table
| Attribute | AHK-Cu | RU-58841 |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | AHK-Cu (Alanine-Histidine-Lysine Copper Peptide) | RU-58841 (PSK-3841) |
| Category | Hair Growth | Hair Growth |
| Status | Cosmetic research peptide | 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. | Non-steroidal androgen receptor antagonist with high binding affinity. Applied topically, penetrates to dermal papilla cells where it blocks DHT-AR complex formation, preventing transcription of hair-miniaturizing genes without systemic antiandrogen effects. |
| Molecular weight | ~403 Da (with copper) | 369.34 Da |
| Half-life | Topical (local action) | ~1 hour (in skin/plasma); active at receptor for 8-12h |
| Bioavailability | Topical (serum/solution); local delivery | Topical only - minimal systemic absorption |
| Typical dose | ~0.5-2 mg/mL topical serum | 50-100 mg in 1mL vehicle |
| Frequency | 1-2x daily on scalp | Daily application to scalp |
| Route | Topical | Topical (dissolved in ethanol/PG vehicle) |
AHK-Cu reported benefits
- Hair follicle support and growth signaling
- Follicle vascularization (VEGF)
- Prolongs anagen growth phase
- Collagen and skin support
- Antioxidant copper delivery
RU-58841 reported benefits
- Local anti-androgen (no systemic effects)
- No sexual side effects
- DHT blocking at follicle level
- Can combine with oral finasteride
- Fast-acting (visible in weeks)
Related comparisons
Research and educational reference only. Not medical advice.