WhatPeptide

AHK-Cu

AHK-Cu is a copper-binding tripeptide studied for its ability to stimulate hair follicle proliferation and promote wound healing through copper-dependent enzymatic pathways. It is a less widely studied relative of GHK-Cu but shares overlapping mechanisms relevant to hair and skin biology.

Preliminary evidence Unregulated Cosmetic

Written by WhatPeptide Editorial Team · Last updated 2026-03-17

Half-life

Topical peptides degrade rapidly; contact time-dependent

Dosage range

0.5-2% topical formulation applied once or twice daily (published cosmetic literature context)

Administration

Topical

Research level

Preliminary

How AHK-Cu works

AHK-Cu binds copper ions and facilitates their delivery to tissues where copper-dependent enzymes such as lysyl oxidase and superoxide dismutase are active, supporting collagen crosslinking and antioxidant defense. Studies in hair follicle models suggest it stimulates keratinocyte proliferation and prolongs the anagen growth phase. Topical bioavailability and clinical translation remain under investigation.

Also known as: Alanyl-Histidyl-Lysine Copper, Copper Tripeptide-2

Research relevance

Hair & Skin
Moderate relevance 75
Anti-Aging & Longevity
Some relevance 45

Side effects & safety

Potential skin irritation with prolonged topical use Copper staining of skin or hair

Contraindications

Known copper sensitivity
Wilson's disease

Consult a healthcare provider before use if any of these apply to you.

Key studies

FAQ

What is AHK-Cu? +
AHK-Cu is a copper-binding tripeptide studied for its ability to stimulate hair follicle proliferation and promote wound healing through copper-dependent enzymatic pathways. It is a less widely studied relative of GHK-Cu but shares overlapping mechanisms relevant to hair and skin biology. Its mechanism of action is based on preliminary or early-stage research.
What is AHK-Cu researched for? +
AHK-Cu has the strongest research relevance for Hair & Skin, Anti-Aging & Longevity. Evidence is based on preliminary or early-stage research.
What are the side effects of AHK-Cu? +
Reported side effects include Potential skin irritation with prolonged topical use, Copper staining of skin or hair. Key contraindications: Known copper sensitivity; Wilson's disease.
Is AHK-Cu FDA approved? +
AHK-Cu is not FDA-approved. It is available as a research compound or through compounding pharmacies in some jurisdictions.
How is AHK-Cu administered? +
AHK-Cu is typically administered via topical route. Researched dosage range: 0.5-2% topical formulation applied once or twice daily (published cosmetic literature context). Half-life: Topical peptides degrade rapidly; contact time-dependent.

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GHK

Moderate evidence

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GHK is the parent tripeptide that forms the copper-chelating complex GHK-Cu, studied for its own biological activities including gene expression modulation, tissue remodeling, and anti-inflammatory effects. It naturally declines with age and is found in plasma, saliva, and urine.

GHK-Cu

Moderate evidence

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A naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide widely studied in skin and hair biology and extracellular matrix remodeling. Note: FDA Category 2 applies to injectable routes only. Non-injectable administration (topical, nasal, oral) remains Category 1 (permitted for compounding).

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