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AHK-Cu
AHK-Cu 100 mg – copper complex of the tripeptide Ala-His-Lys
Peptology Ltd. · Peptides for skin, sleep and libido
AHK-Cu is a copper complex of the tripeptide Ala-His-Lys that Peptology supplies strictly for laboratory research, in 100 mg. You can buy AHK-Cu in Cyprus online from €50.00, with same-day dispatch for orders placed by 15:00. 99%+ purity, HPLC/MS certificate for every batch, so every vial comes with documented quality data. Delivery in 5–7 working days with BOX NOW, free from €50; you pay on delivery – by card through the BOX NOW payment link, before you open the locker. The product is not intended for human or veterinary use.
50,00 € · In stock
For research use only / Not a medicine
| Purity | >99% |
|---|---|
| Method | HPLC + LC/MS |
| Laboratory | Analiza Białek |
| Batch | 0226 |
Last updated: 23/07/2026
What is AHK-Cu?
AHK-Cu is a copper tripeptide with the sequence Ala-His-Lys (alanyl-histidyl-lysine), complexed with a copper(II) ion. It belongs to the copper peptides — short chains of amino acids that act simultaneously as a copper carrier and as a signalling molecule in the skin and the hair follicle. The more widely studied GHK-Cu belongs to the same group, but AHK-Cu is directed more specifically towards hair growth and activation of the hair follicle, together with skin regeneration.
Copper is an essential cofactor of enzymes for collagen/elastin synthesis (e.g. lysyl oxidase), antioxidant protection and angiogenesis. Copper peptides are studied because they supply copper in a bioavailable form while also influencing gene expression and signalling in skin and follicle cells. The sources refer to it inconsistently as “Acetyl Tripeptide-1 Cu”, “Copper Tripeptide-1” or “Copper Tripeptide-3”, so the INCI name differs between suppliers. It is linked mainly with prolongation of the anagen phase and activation of the cells of the dermal papilla.
At Peptology it is supplied as a lyophilised powder with purity above 99% (see certificates), with a price in Cyprus and pay on delivery. Exclusively for research purposes; it is not a medicine or a ready-made cosmetic. See the category peptides for skin, sleep, libido.
How AHK-Cu acts — mechanism
In ex vivo models, AHK-Cu acts at several levels in the skin and the hair follicle. The three axes summarise the main directions of study.
DERMAL PAPILLA
Stimulation of the proliferation and survival of the cells of the dermal papilla — the “control centre” of each hair.
ANAGEN PHASE
Studied in relation to prolongation of the anagen (growth) phase of the hair cycle and elongation of the hair follicle in organ culture.
COPPER + MATRIX
As a copper peptide it is linked to remodelling of the extracellular matrix (ECM), antioxidant protection and signals in the VEGF/HGF pathways.
The dermal papilla and the role of copper
The dermal papilla at the base of the hair follicle determines the growth duration, thickness and density of the hair; a decline in its activity is linked to follicle miniaturisation — this is where AHK-Cu is placed. At the same time, copper takes part in collagen/elastin cross-linking (lysyl oxidase), antioxidant protection and angiogenesis, so the peptide acts in two ways: as a signalling molecule and as a copper carrier.
The hair cycle and where AHK-Cu fits in
Each hair follicle goes through a cycle of three phases; this is why research on AHK-Cu focuses on the anagen phase.
ANAGEN
Active growth phase, lasting years. The longer it is, the longer and denser the hair. The target of research with AHK-Cu.
CATAGEN
Short transitional phase (weeks), in which the follicle shrinks and growth stops.
TELOGEN
Resting phase; then the hair falls out and a new cycle begins. Its predominance is linked to thinning.
In hair loss the balance shifts towards a shorter anagen, leading to follicle miniaturisation. Copper peptides are studied for prolongation of the anagen phase and support of the dermal papilla — which is why AHK-Cu appears in preparations for hair density and quality.
Properties and characteristics of AHK-Cu
- Sequence: Ala-His-Lys, complexed with Cu(II)
- Class: copper tripeptide; related to GHK-Cu
- INCI (varies): Acetyl Tripeptide-1 Cu / Copper Tripeptide-1 / Copper Tripeptide-3
- Form: lyophilised powder with a bluish tint, typical of copper complexes
- Solubility: water-soluble; for topical preparations it is dissolved in water/bacteriostatic water
- Main use: topical research — solutions, serums, creams
- Stability: better in lyophilised form; solutions are stored cold and in the dark
AHK-Cu vs GHK-Cu
Both are copper tripeptides, but they are studied for different priorities: AHK-Cu focuses on hair and the follicle, while GHK-Cu has a broader data base for skin, collagen and healing. In many protocols they are considered complementary.
| AHK-Cu | GHK-Cu | |
|---|---|---|
| Sequence | Ala-His-Lys + Cu | Gly-His-Lys + Cu |
| Main focus | Hair / follicle | Skin / collagen / healing |
| Main target | Dermal papilla | Fibroblasts / ECM |
| Evidence base | More limited | More extensive |
| Typical form | Topical / cosmetic | Topical / cosmetic |
Note: the placement for hair growth is based on an older ex vivo study and on data for the class. Scientific reference, not a claim of effect.
Research forms and concentrations
AHK-Cu is mainly a topical ingredient. The table summarises typical research forms and concentrations: solutions are absorbed faster, creams offer prolonged retention.
| Form | Concentration | Frequency | Skin absorption* | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Topical solution | 0.01–0.1% (100–1000 mcg/mL) |
1–2× daily | 15–25% | Most common form |
| Topical cream | 0.005–0.05% (50–500 mcg/g) |
2× daily | 10–20% | Improved retention |
Important: *Absorption values are indicative and depend on the preparation. Data for scientific reference, not a recommendation for use. The 100 mg of raw material is usually dissolved for topical preparations, not for injection.
For a research solution, e.g. 100 mg in 100 mL gives 0.1% (1000 mcg/mL), with further dilution for the lower values. For reconstitution we recommend Peptide Matrix Water™, which preserves the stability of the copper complex; alternatively, bacteriostatic or sterile water.
Scientific basis and research
A frequently cited older ex vivo study reports that AHK-Cu at very low concentrations (pico- to nanomolar) stimulates the elongation of isolated hair follicles in organ culture — the basis for its positioning as a peptide for hair. The wider literature on copper peptides (such as GHK-Cu) describes effects on collagen synthesis, angiogenesis and antioxidant protection; part of this is transferred to AHK-Cu by analogy, although its own data base is more limited. In the skin it is examined for the structure of the dermal matrix, texture and antioxidant balance.
The data are mainly ex vivo or by analogy. There are no large clinical trials in humans — all claims are in a research context.
Documented research focus
- Hair growth — activation of the dermal papilla and prolongation of the anagen phase in ex vivo models.
- Hair density — support of follicular activity against miniaturisation.
- Skin regeneration — effects common to copper peptides, on the matrix and collagen.
- Antioxidant balance — copper against oxidative stress.
- Scalp care — in preparations (serums, sprays, creams).
The directions concern published preclinical and ex vivo studies and are not a claim of results or a recommendation for use.
Related products
GHK-Cu
Copper peptide for skin and collagen
Epithalon
Anti-aging tetrapeptide
Peptide Matrix Water™
Reconstitution solution
Catalogue: Peptides for skin, sleep, libido · Blog
Research warning: AHK-Cu is offered exclusively for research and formulation purposes and in vitro applications. It is not a medicine, is not a ready-made cosmetic and is not intended for consumption by humans or animals. The information (including concentrations and absorption values) concerns preclinical, ex vivo and class-analogy data and is for scientific reference only, not medical advice. Peptology bears no responsibility for unauthorised use.
How does AHK-Cu differ from GHK-Cu?
The sequence differs (Ala instead of Gly in the first position). AHK-Cu is studied more specifically for hair/follicle, while GHK-Cu has a broader data base for skin and collagen.
Buy AHK-Cu in Cyprus – price
You can buy AHK-Cu in Cyprus online from Peptology. Prices by strength:
- AHK-Cu: €50.00
Orders placed by 15:00 on working days ship the same day and are delivered in 5–7 working days with BOX NOW. Shipping costs €2 and is free from €50; you pay on delivery – by card through the BOX NOW payment link, before you open the locker.
AHK-Cu 100 mg: which strength
AHK-Cu is available in: 100 mg.
Storage and reconstitution
- Before reconstitution: lyophilised, cold and dry, away from light; for long-term storage frozen (−20 °C).
- After reconstitution: refrigerator at 2–8 °C, in the dark; avoid re-freezing.
- Preparation: dissolved to the desired concentration or incorporated into a cream base; clean conditions, minimal exposure to light.
Tip: add Peptide Matrix Water™ as the reconstitution medium — it improves the stability of the solution.
Laboratory protocol — reconstitution, research protocols, storage
Standard protocol, applicable to all research peptides in the Peptology catalogue. For the concentration of the solution (mg/mL) per vial, use the peptide reconstitution calculator.
The 60-second protocol
1. SOLVENT
2. RECONSTITUTION
The solvent is added to the wall of the vial, without agitation, then wait 10–15 minutes.
3. CALCULATION
Calculator → concentration in mg/mL
4. STORAGE
+2 °C to +8 °C, up to 60 days with Peptide Matrix Water
Quick reference
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Form | Lyophilised powder |
| Solvent | Peptide Matrix Water |
| Volume for reconstitution | 1–3 mL — 3 mL maximum (capacity of the standard vial) |
| Storage before reconstitution | Room temperature, protected from direct light (refrigeration is not mandatory) |
| After reconstitution | Up to 60 days at +2 °C to +8 °C with Peptide Matrix Water |
What you will need
Precision pipette
Calibrated, 100–1000 µL — for accurate measurement of the volume of solvent added to the vial.
70% alcohol pads
Two pads — to disinfect the peptide vial and the solvent vial.
Stabilised solvent for lyophilised peptides. Why this one.
Five rules for reconstitution
| ✅ Correct | ❌ Wrong |
|---|---|
| Disinfect the stoppers and the work surface with 70% alcohol, work with gloves | Working without disinfection |
| The solvent is added slowly down the wall of the vial | Direct jet onto the powder — foaming and denaturation |
| Light swirling between the palms | Shaking — foam, on which the peptides denature |
| Wait 10–15 minutes at room temperature | Mechanical mixing or heating |
| Visual inspection: clear, without particles | Using a cloudy or coloured solution |
Calculating the concentration
⚠️ Maximum 3 mL of solvent. The standard vial does not allow a larger volume — do not exceed it during reconstitution.
- Concentration (mg/mL) = mg in the vial ÷ mL of solvent
- Volume per sample (mL) = amount per sample (mg) ÷ concentration (mg/mL)
- 1 mg/mL = 1 µg/µL · 1 mL = 1000 µL
Reconstitution per vial — solvent: Peptide Matrix Water. Concentration after addition (1 mg/mL = 1 µg/µL):
| Vial | + 1 mL | + 2 mL | + 3 mL |
|---|---|---|---|
| 100 mg | 100 mg/mL | 50 mg/mL | 33.33 mg/mL |
👉 For any vial and solvent volume — use the calculator. It calculates the concentration (mg/mL, µg/µL) and the volume per sample (mL, µL).
Storage
BEFORE RECONSTITUTION
Room temperature, protected from direct light, in the original packaging. Refrigeration is not mandatory.
AFTER RECONSTITUTION
+2 °C to +8 °C, up to 60 days with Peptide Matrix Water. Discard the remainder after this period.
FREEZING
Not recommended. Freeze/thaw cycles degrade the structure of the peptide.
Four mistakes to avoid
1. Shaking for “faster dissolution”
Foam = denaturation. Only gentle swirling between the palms.
2. Unsuitable solvent
For the stability of the peptide structure, use only a sterile, purpose-designed solvent — Peptide Matrix Water is recommended.
3. Ignoring slight cloudiness
If it is not completely clear = the sample does not meet the criteria for work.
4. Removing it from the refrigerator “for an hour or two”
Short exposures add up and jeopardise stability.
Research status: All Peptology products are intended exclusively for laboratory use and research. They are not pharmaceutical products, have not been approved for human or veterinary use and do not replace medical advice. The protocol described is standard laboratory practice for working with lyophilised peptides.
How is AHK-Cu stored?
Cold and dry, away from light; for long-term storage frozen. After reconstitution – in the refrigerator at 2–8 °C, without re-freezing .
Purity and certificate of analysis
99%+ purity, HPLC/MS certificate for every batch.
AHK-Cu - 100 mg - Batch - 0226 - Purity
Shipping and payment
Orders placed by 15:00 on working days ship the same day and are delivered in 5–7 working days with BOX NOW. Shipping costs €2 and is free from €50; you pay on delivery – by card through the BOX NOW payment link, before you open the locker.
🚚 Delivery information
- Orders placed by 15:00 are dispatched the same day, delivery in 5–7 working days.
- Shipping with BOX NOW, chosen at checkout. Free shipping from €50, otherwise €2.
Frequently asked questions about AHK-Cu
Where can I buy AHK-Cu in Cyprus and what does it cost?
In Cyprus you can buy AHK-Cu online from Peptology, from €50.00. Delivery in 5–7 working days with BOX NOW, free from €50; you pay on delivery – by card through the BOX NOW payment link, before you open the locker.
What is AHK-Cu?
Mainly for hair growth (activation of the dermal papilla and prolongation of the anagen phase) and for skin regeneration in a cosmetic-formulation context.
In what form is AHK-Cu available?
As a lyophilised powder in a glass vial (100 mg). It is reconstituted in the laboratory with Peptide Matrix Water™ or bacteriostatic water; you can work out the concentration (mg/mL) with the <a href="/page/peptide-calculator">reconstitution calculator</a>.
Which side effects have been reported in clinical studies of AHK-Cu?
Peptology does not publish its own safety data for AHK-Cu; for adverse events, see the original publications of clinical and preclinical studies. The product is supplied strictly for laboratory research and is not intended for human or veterinary use.
How long does delivery take and how do I pay?
Orders placed by 15:00 on working days ship the same day and are delivered in 5–7 working days with BOX NOW. Shipping costs €2 and is free from €50; you pay on delivery – by card through the BOX NOW payment link, before you open the locker.