AHK-Cu vs GHK-Cu (Copper Peptide)
A detailed comparison to help you understand the differences and choose the right peptide for your research goals.
AHK-Cu
AHK-Cu (Copper Tripeptide-3, Alanine-Histidine-Lysine Copper) is a copper peptide similar to GHK-Cu but with different properties. It's used for hair growth and skin rejuvenation applications.
Full details →GHK-Cu (Copper Peptide)
GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring copper peptide found in human plasma, saliva, and urine. It plays important roles in wound healing, tissue repair, and has shown anti-aging properties in research.
Full details →Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aspect | AHK-Cu | GHK-Cu (Copper Peptide) |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | The copper-binding tripeptide stimulates collagen synthesis and may promote hair follicle enlargement. Works similarly to GHK-Cu but may have distinct receptor interactions. | Attracts immune cells and fibroblasts to wound sites, stimulates collagen and glycosaminoglycan synthesis, promotes angiogenesis, and has antioxidant effects. Modulates gene expression related to tissue repair. |
| Typical Dosage | Topical: 0.5-2% concentration in serums for skin or scalp applications. Often combined with other growth factors for hair formulations. | Topical: Applied as serum or cream 1-2 times daily. Injectable: 1-2mg daily for research purposes. Microneedling protocols often use 0.5-1%. |
| Administration | Topical application to skin or scalp. Can be used with microneedling for enhanced penetration. May cause temporary blue-green tint at high concentrations. | Most commonly used topically for skin applications. Can be injected subcutaneously for systemic effects. Often combined with microneedling for enhanced skin penetration. |
| Side Effects | Generally well-tolerated. May cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals. Temporary discoloration possible. | Topical use is generally well-tolerated. May cause temporary skin irritation or redness in sensitive individuals. Injectable use may cause injection site reactions. |
| Best For |
What They Have in Common
Both AHK-Cu and GHK-Cu (Copper Peptide) are commonly used for: