AHK-Cu vs KPV
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 →KPV
KPV is a tripeptide (Lys-Pro-Val) derived from alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH). It retains the potent anti-inflammatory properties of the parent hormone without the tanning or other melanocortin effects.
Full details →Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aspect | AHK-Cu | KPV |
|---|---|---|
| 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. | Inhibits NF-κB activation and reduces inflammatory cytokine production. Enters cells and directly modulates inflammatory signaling without requiring melanocortin receptors. |
| Typical Dosage | Topical: 0.5-2% concentration in serums for skin or scalp applications. Often combined with other growth factors for hair formulations. | Oral/sublingual: 200-500mcg 1-3 times daily. Topical formulations for localized inflammation. Also used in enemas for gut inflammation. |
| Administration | Topical application to skin or scalp. Can be used with microneedling for enhanced penetration. May cause temporary blue-green tint at high concentrations. | Can be taken orally, sublingually, or as suppositories/enemas for gut inflammation. Topical use for skin conditions. Stable orally unlike most peptides. |
| Side Effects | Generally well-tolerated. May cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals. Temporary discoloration possible. | Generally very well-tolerated. Minimal systemic effects due to targeted anti-inflammatory action. |
| Best For |
What They Have in Common
Both AHK-Cu and KPV are commonly used for: