OnePin Peptide Library · Skin
AHK-Cu
AHK Copper · Alanyl-Histidyl-Lysine Copper
AHK-Cu (Alanyl-Histidyl-Lysine-Copper) is a copper-bound tripeptide closely related to GHK-Cu. Where GHK-Cu primarily targets skin remodeling and collagen biology, AHK-Cu is more specifically researched for hair follicle stimulation and hair regrowth. The copper coordination chemistry and downstream signaling overlap substantially with GHK-Cu - both peptides bind copper(II) in a 1:1 complex and modulate gene expression related to extracellular matrix remodeling, angiogenesis, and antioxidant defense.
Topical: apply to scalp daily, leave on overnight. Injectable: 1-2x weekly to scalp area. Light-sensitive (copper complex).
Start here. Every protocol below is ordered lowest-first. Begin at the smallest effective dose, hold about a week to assess tolerance, and step up only if needed.
How it works
AHK-Cu chelates copper(II) in 1:1 stoichiometry, similar to GHK-Cu. The peptide-copper complex is taken up by cells via reduction at the membrane and modulates intracellular gene expression:
Hair Follicle Stimulation
Promotes vellus-to-terminal hair conversion in dermal papilla cell cultures. Upregulates VEGF, FGF-7 (KGF), and other growth factors at hair follicles.
Copper Coordination
Same coordination chemistry as GHK-Cu - copper conjugation is the bioactive form. Copper-free forms have reduced or absent activity.
Same Chemistry Conflicts as GHK-Cu
NEVER co-store with thiol/Met/Cys-containing peptides. Copper drives oxidation of these residues during co-storage, degrading both peptides.
Topical Penetration
Small tripeptide passes through stratum corneum reasonably well. Often formulated with penetration enhancers in commercial products.
Synergy with GHK-Cu
Often combined - GHK-Cu for skin/scalp matrix, AHK-Cu for hair-specific follicle stimulation.
What to expect
Weeks 1-4: minimal subjective change.
Weeks 4-12: subtle hair texture improvements.
Weeks 12-24: visible hair density increase if responsive.
Evidence
Interactions & stacking
What's safe to combine, and what belongs in a separate pin.
Keep separate
Side effects & safety
Commonly reported
- Mild scalp irritation (topical)
- Mild injection site reaction (injectable)
- Temporary scalp redness
Less common & notes
- Allergic reaction to peptide or formulation.
- Copper-related effects rare with topical use due to low systemic absorption.
- Injectable use carries the standard copper-peptide chemistry concerns.
Pharmacokinetics
Storage. Refrigerate. Light-sensitive (copper complex). Reconstituted: 21-28 days refrigerated. Discard if color changes.
Regulatory status
Not FDA-approved. Sold as cosmeceutical (topical) or research chemical (injectable). WADA: not specifically prohibited.
Put it to work
Calculate, log & track
Open AHK-Cu straight into OnePin with your vial and dose pre-filled, then let it handle the syringe math and remind you before the vial runs out.
Open AHK-Cu in the app →Go deeper
The guide & community
The complete AHK-Cu walkthrough, real protocol discussion and coaching live inside the BlessUp community on Skool.
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