AHK-Cu vs Melanotan I
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 →Melanotan I
Melanotan I (afamelanotide) is a synthetic analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH). It is FDA-approved as Scenesse for erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP), a rare genetic disorder causing severe sun sensitivity.
Full details →Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aspect | AHK-Cu | Melanotan I |
|---|---|---|
| Dose Range | 1 mg–10 mg | 250 mcg–500 mcg |
| Frequency | 2x daily | 1x daily |
| Cycle Length | 4–8 weeks | 1–4 weeks |
| Route | topical | subcutaneous |
| 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. | Binds to melanocortin 1 receptors (MC1R) on melanocytes, stimulating eumelanin production. This increases skin pigmentation and provides photoprotection without UV exposure. |
| Typical Dosage | Topical: 0.5-2% concentration in serums for skin or scalp applications. Often combined with other growth factors for hair formulations. | Clinical: 16mg implant every 2 months. Research protocols for tanning typically use 0.5-1mg daily for loading, then maintenance dosing. |
| Administration | Topical application to skin or scalp. Can be used with microneedling for enhanced penetration. May cause temporary blue-green tint at high concentrations. | FDA-approved form is a subcutaneous implant. Research use involves subcutaneous injection. Often combined with minimal UV exposure to enhance results. |
| Side Effects | Generally well-tolerated. May cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals. Temporary discoloration possible. | Nausea (especially initially), facial flushing, fatigue, headache, and darkening of existing moles or freckles. |
| Best For |
What They Have in Common
AHK-Cu, Melanotan I are both commonly used for:
Which Has Stronger Evidence?
- Skin Health & Aesthetics: Melanotan I has stronger research support.
| Goal | AHK-Cu | Melanotan I |
|---|---|---|
| Skin Health & Aesthetics | medium | high |
Key Studies
Melanotan I
- Use of melanotan I and II in the general population.
BMJ (Clinical research ed.), 2009
- Pharmacologic response of a controlled-release PLGA formulation for the alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone analog, Melanotan-I.
Pharmaceutical research, 2000
- Discovery and development of novel melanogenic drugs. Melanotan-I and -II.
Pharmaceutical biotechnology, 1998
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