AHK-Cu
Bem estudadoHair Growth Copper Peptide | Dermal Papilla Stimulator
Synthetic copper-binding tripeptide targeting dermal papilla cells and hair follicles.
Dados moleculares e de pesquisa
- Sequência
- L-Alanyl-L-Histidyl-L-Lysine (Ala-His-Lys)
- Peso molecular
- 416.9 Da
- Meia-vida
- Not established
- Alvos primários
- tgf-beta, vegf
- Vias (pesquisa)
- topical, injectable
- Armazenamento
- Topical preparations: 2-8°C refrigerated in dark glass container, use within 30 days. Protect from light and heat
Overview
Synthetic copper-binding tripeptide targeting dermal papilla cells and hair follicles. Stimulates hair follicle elongation, promotes cell proliferation, increases VEGF production, and inhibits TGF-β1. Supports skin regeneration through fibroblast activation and collagen synthesis.
Mechanism of action
AHK-Cu penetrates scalp delivering copper directly to dermal papilla cells. Activates proliferation pathways, elevates Bcl-2/Bax ratio (anti-apoptotic), increases VEGF for blood flow, reduces TGF-β1, and promotes SOD production for oxidative stress reduction.
Key research findings
- Hair follicle elongation stimulation
- Dermal papilla cell proliferation
- VEGF upregulation for improved scalp circulation
- TGF-β1 reduction (counters DHT effects)
- Anti-apoptotic protection for follicles
- Collagen synthesis support
- Convenient topical application
- Fibroblast activation for skin regeneration
Research applications
Hair Growth
- Hair Follicle Elongation — Ex vivo studies demonstrate AHK-Cu stimulates human hair follicle elongation at concentrations as low as 10⁻¹² M, promoting longer anagen phase.
- Dermal Papilla Cell Proliferation — Increases proliferation of dermal papilla cells, the key regulatory cells for hair follicle cycling and hair growth.
- VEGF Upregulation — Boosts vascular endothelial growth factor production, improving blood flow and nutrient delivery to hair follicles.
- Anti-DHT Mechanism — Reduces TGF-β1 secretion and oxidative stress (via SOD), both contributing to DHT-induced follicle miniaturization.
Skin Regeneration
- Fibroblast Stimulation — Activates fibroblast proliferation and collagen synthesis for improved skin structure and wound healing.
- Anti-Apoptotic Effects — Elevates Bcl-2/Bax ratio and reduces caspase-3 activation, protecting cells from programmed death.
- Extracellular Matrix Support — Promotes collagen and ECM component deposition for tissue renewal and repair.
FAQ de AHK-Cu
How long before hair growth becomes visible with AHK-Cu topical application?+
Most users see no visible changes weeks 1-2 as the peptide works at cellular level. Fine vellus hairs may appear in thinning areas by month 1-2. Noticeable improvements in hair density and quality emerge by month 3-4 with continued use. Full results with significant regrowth typically appear by 6-12 months.
Can I use AHK-Cu with vitamin C or other actives in my skincare routine?+
No. Low pH ascorbic acid destabilizes the copper peptide complex. Use vitamin C at different times (morning vs evening). Similarly, acidic AHA/BHA exfoliants can destabilize AHK-Cu, as can retinol/retinoids which are potent actives that may cause irritation. Space these products by several hours.
Is AHK-Cu more effective than minoxidil for hair growth?+
They work through different mechanisms: minoxidil opens potassium channels and vasodilates, while AHK-Cu stimulates dermal papilla cells and VEGF. Clinical studies show AHK-Cu alone produces positive results, and combining them is synergistic since they target different pathways. Neither is universally superior; combination likely produces best results.
Can I take copper supplements while using AHK-Cu topically?+
No. AHK-Cu is complexed copper delivered topically, and additional copper supplementation creates toxicity risk. Monitor total copper intake from all sources including multivitamins. Topical application has minimal systemic absorption, but combining with oral copper supplementation is unnecessary and potentially dangerous.
References
- [1]The effect of tripeptide-copper complex on human hair growth in vitroArchives of Pharmaceutical Research
- [2]Effects of copper tripeptide on the growth and expression of growth factors by normal and irradiated fibroblastsWound Repair and Regeneration
- [3]Human skin penetration of a copper tripeptide in vitro as a function of skin layerSkin Pharmacology and Physiology
- [4]Thermodynamically stable ionic liquid microemulsions pioneer pathways for topical delivery and peptide applicationInternational Journal of Pharmaceutics
- [5]Enhanced hair regrowth with minoxidil-dutasteride-copper peptides tattooing for androgenetic alopeciaJournal of Cosmetic Dermatology
- [6]Palmitoyl copper peptide and acetyl tyrosine complex enhances melanin productionInternational Journal of Molecular Sciences
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