Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 vs AHK-Cu
A detailed comparison to help you understand the differences and choose the right peptide for your research goals.
Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1
Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 (Pal-GHK) is a lipopeptide that stimulates collagen production. It's one of two peptides in the Matrixyl 3000 complex, working synergistically with Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7.
Full details →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 →Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aspect | Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 | AHK-Cu |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | Mimics the skin's own mechanism for producing collagen by acting as a messenger peptide that signals fibroblasts to produce more collagen and other extracellular matrix components. | The copper-binding tripeptide stimulates collagen synthesis and may promote hair follicle enlargement. Works similarly to GHK-Cu but may have distinct receptor interactions. |
| Typical Dosage | Topical: Typically 2-4% in serums, often combined with Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 as Matrixyl 3000. | Topical: 0.5-2% concentration in serums for skin or scalp applications. Often combined with other growth factors for hair formulations. |
| Administration | Topical application 1-2 times daily. The palmitoyl group enhances skin penetration compared to non-lipidated versions. | Topical application to skin or scalp. Can be used with microneedling for enhanced penetration. May cause temporary blue-green tint at high concentrations. |
| Side Effects | Very well-tolerated. Suitable for most skin types including sensitive skin. | Generally well-tolerated. May cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals. Temporary discoloration possible. |
| Best For |
What They Have in Common
Both Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 and AHK-Cu are commonly used for: