AHK-Cu

AHK-Cu (alanyl-histidyl-lysine bound to copper) is a copper tripeptide related to GHK-Cu, studied mainly in cosmetic and dermatological research with a focus on hair follicles and the skin matrix.

Copper peptides are described as modulators of collagen and elastin synthesis and of follicular growth factors including VEGF, with copper acting as a cofactor for matrix remodelling enzymes.

Store the sealed lyophilized vial at 2-8 °C, protected from light; brief exposure to room temperature during shipping is generally tolerated. Refrigerate after reconstitution at 2-8 °C and use within the period supported by stability data for the substance (typically 2-4 weeks). Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles: each cycle increases the risk of aggregation and hydrolysis of the peptide bond. Do not shake the vial; swirl gently and direct the liquid stream against the glass wall rather than at the powder cake.

• Sealed lyophilized vial, stored as supplied
• Bacteriostatic water (0.9% benzyl alcohol) for reconstitution
• Insulin syringes (29-31G, 0.5 mL / 100 units)
• Reconstitution syringe (1-3 mL, 21-23G needle)
• 70% isopropyl alcohol swabs
• Sharps container for used needles
• Labels and a logbook for batch, date and volume

Reported effects in small in vitro and cosmetic studies include a prolonged hair growth phase and improved skin texture. Controlled human data are limited.

Wash your hands, then disinfect the vial septum and the injection site with 70% isopropyl alcohol and allow both to air dry. Draw up the intended volume, remove air bubbles and pinch a subcutaneous skin fold. Insert at a 45-90° angle depending on fat thickness, aspiration is not required for subcutaneous administration, and inject slowly. Withdraw the needle, apply light pressure and discard the needle in a sharps container. Rotate injection sites systematically (abdominal quadrants, flanks, thighs) to prevent lipohypertrophy and local irritation.

Peptide research protocols are studied against a background of adequate protein intake (approximately 1.6-2.2 g/kg/day in the training literature), consistent sleep of 7-9 hours, and controlled training load. Sleep deprivation and chronic psychological stress both dampen growth hormone pulsatility and disrupt tissue remodeling, complicating the interpretation of any observed effect. Alcohol, smoking and large caloric deficits are likewise documented modifiers of recovery outcomes.

1. Pickart L., Margolina A. Regenerative and protective actions of the GHK-Cu peptide. Int J Mol Sci, 2018.
2. Pyo H.K. et al. The effect of tripeptide-copper complex on human hair growth. Arch Pharm Res, 2007.