AHK-Cu
Mechanism of action
What AHK-Cu does in the body — step by step.
AHK-Cu is a copper-binding tripeptide (alanine-histidine-lysine) and belongs to the family of cosmetic copper peptides, similar to the better-known GHK-Cu.
The bound copper ion is considered functionally relevant.
In preclinical investigations AHK-Cu has been described mainly in the context of hair-follicle stimulation and promotion of dermal cells.
Research status
How far along is the evidence?
Known risks
Without human data, safety statements are limited. What is known:
Cited studies
Chronological — links lead to the source.
Frequently asked questions
What is AHK-Cu?+
AHK-Cu is a copper-binding tripeptide (alanine-histidine-lysine) and belongs to the family of cosmetic copper peptides, similar to the better-known GHK-Cu.
What type of peptide is AHK-Cu?+
AHK-Cu belongs to the Copper peptide class.
What is AHK-Cu used for?+
In research, AHK-Cu has primarily been investigated in the context of: Skin & hair, Recovery. These are research findings (evidence: preclinical), not proven benefits in humans and not a usage recommendation.
Is AHK-Cu legal in Germany?+
AHK-Cu is not approved as a medicine in Germany. Obtaining it outside clinical studies is legally problematic.
Is AHK-Cu FDA-approved / legal in the US?+
The FDA status of AHK-Cu is not clearly classified.
Is AHK-Cu legal in Canada?+
The regulatory status of AHK-Cu in Canada is not clearly classified.
Where can I buy AHK-Cu?+
Peptica sells nothing and names no sources. AHK-Cu is "not approved" in Germany; obtaining unapproved substances outside clinical studies is illegal and carries quality and safety risks.
What is the dosage of AHK-Cu?+
Peptica publishes no dosing. There are no approved dosing guidelines for AHK-Cu; figures circulating online stem from animal studies or anecdote, not from validated human protocols. This is not medical advice.
Is AHK-Cu banned in sport (WADA)?+
AHK-Cu is currently not on the WADA Prohibited List.
What are the known risks of AHK-Cu?+
Documented risks include: Thin, mostly preclinical evidence base; Skin irritation or contact allergy possible with topical use. This is not a complete safety assessment and not medical advice — see the risks section for the full list.
How well researched is AHK-Cu?+
The evidence is classified as “preclinical”. 1 study is cited on this page.
Which peptides are related to AHK-Cu?+
Closely related entries: GHK-Cu. A direct side-by-side comparison is available via the compare function.
Dossier
Legal · Structure · Sources.
AHK-Cu is not an approved medicine but is used as a cosmetic ingredient. Cosmetic products are governed by cosmetics regulation. Not on the WADA Prohibited List.
Legal status varies by country and can change. This is not legal advice.
Methodology: Peptica compiles publicly available studies and regulatory information and assigns each statement an evidence level. Not medical advice. No warranty.