The copper peptide more selective for hair follicle activation than GHK-Cu — used topically on the scalp for thicker, faster-growing hair and in combination with minoxidil and microneedling.
AHK-Cu is a synthetic tripeptide-copper complex (Alanine-Histidine-Lysine bound to copper). It’s a sister peptide to GHK-Cu with a nearly identical size and chemistry, but a somewhat different receptor binding profile that makes it more selective for hair follicle stimulation than GHK-Cu.
Most users think of it as "GHK-Cu for hair": similar safety and copper delivery, but tuned specifically for hair regrowth rather than general skin regeneration. It’s often combined with GHK-Cu, minoxidil, finasteride, and dermarolling in comprehensive hair-loss protocols.
Not FDA approved. Not WADA prohibited. Available as injectable powder, topical serum, or scalp tonic.
Directly signals dermal papilla cells to enlarge follicles, converting miniaturized follicles back to terminal hair-producing follicles. This is the primary hair-regrowth mechanism.
Prolongs the growth (anagen) phase of the hair cycle, allowing hairs to grow longer before shedding. Net effect: more hairs in growth phase at any time = visibly fuller hair.
Like GHK-Cu, AHK-Cu shuttles copper into cells for lysyl oxidase (collagen crosslinking) and antioxidant defense, supporting the extracellular matrix around follicles.
Reduces scalp inflammation that contributes to androgenetic alopecia progression — complementary to finasteride’s DHT-blocking mechanism.
| Benefit | Evidence |
|---|---|
| Hair thickness | Measurable increase in hair shaft diameter over 12 weeks of topical use |
| Follicle density | Preclinical data: increased follicle count in androgenetic alopecia models |
| Growth rate | Faster hair growth with continued application |
| Synergy with minoxidil | Combined topical appears additive — different receptor targets |
| Scalp health | Reduced inflammation, healthier follicle environment |
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Start Tracking FreeInjectable is uncommon for hair-only goals — topical is both simpler and more targeted. Injectable is used when combined with other systemic regenerative protocols.
Most effective protocol combines: AHK-Cu 0.05%+GHK-Cu 0.1% topical, minoxidil 5% topical, oral finasteride 1 mg (if appropriate), dermarolling 1–2×/week, and optionally SubQ TB-500 1–2×/week. Multi-mechanism approach is the best predictor of regrowth.
For a DIY topical scalp solution from lyophilized powder:
Pre-mixed topical AHK-Cu solutions from reputable suppliers are easier and more reliable than DIY preparation — potency varies with pH and storage conditions.
50 mg vial + 2 mL BAC water = 25 mg/mL
| Dose | Volume | Syringe Units |
|---|---|---|
| 0.5 mg | 0.02 mL | 2 units |
| 1 mg | 0.04 mL | 4 units |
Use our free peptide calculator to figure out your reconstitution volume, draw amount, and syringe units.
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Like GHK-Cu, AHK-Cu has an excellent safety profile — endogenous-adjacent chemistry with self-limiting copper binding.
Looking for AHK-Cu? We recommend NextGen Peptides — third-party tested, fast shipping, and trusted by the StackTrax community.
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Start Tracking FreeDisclaimer: This guide is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The compounds discussed are not FDA approved for human use. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any new supplement or peptide protocol. StackTrax does not sell peptides or supplements directly — purchase links go to third-party vendors. StackTrax is not responsible for the products, quality, or business practices of any third-party vendor. This page contains affiliate links — StackTrax may earn a commission on purchases at no extra cost to you.
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StackTrax guides cover peptides and compounds that are not FDA-approved for the uses discussed. The dosing, reconstitution, and safety information is compiled from published research and community protocols for educational purposes only.
Before using any compound mentioned here, consult a qualified healthcare provider. StackTrax does not sell, prescribe, or recommend these substances for personal use.
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