AHK-Cu

AHK-Cu is a synthetic copper tripeptide, chemically known as Copper Tripeptide-3 or Ala-His-Lys-Cu, consisting of the amino acids alanine, histidine, and lysine bound to a copper ion. It is primarily researched for its role in promoting hair growth by stimulating dermal papilla cells in hair follicles, increasing fibroblast activity, boosting vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) for new blood vessel formation, and reducing oxidative stress linked to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) effects

This makes it a popular ingredient in topical hair serums and scalp treatments for addressing thinning hair or loss

It also supports skin health by enhancing collagen synthesis, improving elasticity, and aiding wound healing, though it is less commonly used for these purposes compared to its analog GHK-Cu (Copper Tripeptide-1). Unlike naturally occurring GHK-Cu, AHK-Cu is lab-made and often considered more targeted for hair follicle regeneration

Studies including human hair follicle models, show it elongates follicles and reduces apoptosis in dermal papilla cells at low concentrations. It appears as a light blue powder in pure form