Origin

A synthetic copper-peptide complex built as a hair-focused variant of the better-studied GHK-Cu, leaning on copper's role in collagen synthesis and wound healing, aimed at androgenetic alopecia and scalp health.

Mechanism

Delivers bioavailable copper to dermal papilla cells, where it acts as an enzymatic cofactor. In-vitro data suggests it upregulates VEGF for follicle blood flow and extends the anagen (growth) phase, but this hasn't been validated on intact human scalp.

Research summary

Evidence

Evidence is in-vitro and cosmetic-industry sourced. The foundational study showed tripeptide-copper complexes stimulate isolated human hair follicles in culture, but no human RCTs exist. Most efficacy claims lean on the GHK-Cu literature rather than AHK-Cu-specific data.

Evidence tier: Cosmetic ingredient (topical, unregulated as drug) — see the methodology note for how this is assessed.

Citations

The effect of tripeptide-copper complex on human hair growth in vitro — 2007

Reported benefits

stimulation of hair follicle anagen phase
increased follicle blood flow (theoretical)
improved hair density claims

Dosing protocols reported in the literature & community

These are protocols reported by compounding pharmacies, published trials, or self-experimentation communities — not a prescription. Start low, especially for anything new.

Reported dosing protocols
Route	Reported protocol
Topical serum/solution	Applied to scalp 1-2x daily, sometimes with microneedling; concentrations 2-5% in cosmetic formulations, no standardized dose.

Side effects

local scalp irritation (rare)
contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals

Safety notes

Community & reddit notes (anecdotal — not clinical evidence)

Used in scalp serums, often stacked with minoxidil or finasteride. Users report subjective improvement after 3-6 months, though expectations are probably inflated by confusing it with GHK-Cu's stronger evidence.