AHK-Cu (AHK-Cu (Alanine-Histidine-Lysine Copper Peptide))
A copper-binding tripeptide (Ala-His-Lys) chelated to copper, closely related to GHK-Cu but especially popular for hair growth and follicle support. Widely used topically in biohacker hair and scalp formulations.
How it works
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.
Key facts
- Molecular weight: ~403 Da (with copper)
- Half-life: Topical (local action)
- Bioavailability: Topical (serum/solution); local delivery
- Storage: Cool, dark place; refrigeration extends shelf life of solutions.
Dosing overview
- Typical dose: ~0.5-2 mg/mL topical serum
- Frequency: 1-2x daily on scalp
- Duration: Ongoing
- Route: Topical
Protocol notes
- Applied as a topical scalp serum, typically once or twice daily to clean, dry scalp.
- Frequently combined with GHK-Cu or minoxidil in hair-growth stacks.
- Consistent daily use over months is needed to assess follicle response.
Reported benefits
- Hair follicle support and growth signaling
- Follicle vascularization (VEGF)
- Prolongs anagen growth phase
- Collagen and skin support
- Antioxidant copper delivery
Possible side effects
- Scalp irritation (rare)
- Temporary blue-green staining
- Contact sensitivity (rare)
Research
- AHK-Cu and hair follicle growth (2007): Copper tripeptide AHK-Cu increased hair follicle size and promoted VEGF-driven follicle vascularization in studies.
- Copper peptides and dermal support (2015): Copper-binding peptides supported angiogenesis, collagen synthesis, and skin/scalp remodeling.
Community reviews of AHK-Cu
- research_marcus rated it 5/5 - Genuinely effective after 4 months: Been using AHK-Cu for about 4 months and the results are clear. Not overnight dramatic, but a steady, consistent improvement that became undeniable by the end of the first month. The mechanism makes sense based on what I have read in the literature, and my subjective experience matches the expected timeline. Benefits built gradually and plateaued at a good level. Side effects were minimal to none at the dose I used. Followed proper protocols for sourcing, storage, and administration. Would recommend to others who have done their research and have realistic expectations.
- bac_water_betty rated it 5/5 - Worth adding to the protocol: AHK-Cu has been a worthwhile addition. I am data-driven and tracked relevant markers before, during, and after. The improvement is measurable and correlates with the intervention timeline. What sets this apart from some compounds I have tried is the consistency. Benefits did not fluctuate wildly or disappear. They built up and maintained. That gives me confidence in the mechanism. Tolerance has been excellent. Nothing in my bloodwork or subjective experience raised any flags. This is the kind of compound that does its job quietly without causing problems. Exactly what you want.
- peak_levels_paula rated it 4/5 - Noticed clear benefits within weeks: Added AHK-Cu to my protocol about 3 months ago and it has earned its place. The benefits became noticeable around week 2-3 and have been consistent since. What I appreciate about this compound is the predictability. It does what the research suggests it should do, at roughly the timeline you would expect. No surprises, no dramatic swings, just steady improvement. No notable side effects to report at my dose. Sourcing is always the challenge with research compounds, insist on third-party testing. Storage and reconstitution per standard protocols. Plan to continue.
Compare AHK-Cu
Research and educational reference only. Not medical advice.