What it is
AHK-Cu is a copper-binding tripeptide (Ala-His-Lys) studied for hair-follicle stimulation and dermal repair. It is frequently formulated alongside GHK-Cu in dermatological research; AHK-Cu is the more hair-focused of the two copper peptides, while GHK-Cu is better known for skin remodeling and wound-healing contexts.
Evidence boundary
Topical/cosmetic research context; limited human clinical trial data. Research use is limited to laboratory and education contexts.
Trial evidence
- Copper tripeptide research (GHK family) spans wound healing, dermal-remodeling, and follicular studies; AHK-Cu specifically is most often discussed in hair-growth research formulations.
Preparation and measurement
Reconstitution: 50 mg vial + 3 mL BAC = 16.67 mg/mL (1 U = 166.7 mcg).
Concentration matches.
Reference schedule
| Phase | Dose | Draw / measure | Frequency | Weekly total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Light | 1 mg | 6 U (0.06 mL) | Once daily | 7 mg/week |
| Standard | 2 mg | 12 U (0.12 mL) | Once daily | 14 mg/week |
Light
- Dose
- 1 mg
- Draw / measure
- 6 U (0.06 mL)
- Frequency
- Once daily
- Weekly total
- 7 mg/week
Standard
- Dose
- 2 mg
- Draw / measure
- 12 U (0.12 mL)
- Frequency
- Once daily
- Weekly total
- 14 mg/week
Weekly totals apply only during the active phase.
Titration rules
- Standard approach: 1–2 mg once daily, subcutaneous or topical.
- 8-week cycles at 2 mg daily use about 3 × 50 mg vials; 12-week cycles about 4.
- For topical use, the reconstituted peptide is applied directly to the area of interest — do not inject a topical-only research formulation.
- Refrigerate after reconstitution; use within 30 days.