Tripeptide-3
Also known as: AHK tripeptide, Copper-free AHK
Basic form of AHK peptide without copper. Promotes wound healing, collagen production, and tissue regeneration for skin rejuvenation.
Research Status
Limited Clinical Data
For research purposes only. Not approved for human use. Not medical advice.
Research Areas
Side Effects
May occur in sensitive individuals or with higher concentrations (>5%). Typically resolves within 24-48 hours. Reduce application frequency or concentration if irritation occurs. Ensure skin is fully dry before application.
May occur immediately after application, particularly on sensitive or compromised skin. Usually subsides within 5-10 minutes. Discontinue if sensation persists or worsens.
Possible in individuals with known sensitivity to peptides or formulation excipients. Perform a patch test on a small area of skin 24 hours before full application. Discontinue use and seek medical advice if rash, swelling, or severe itching develops.
Some peptide formulations may increase photosensitivity. Use broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+) during daytime use, particularly if applying in the morning.
May occur if formulation lacks adequate humectants or emollients. Adjust by using a moisturizer after application or reducing application frequency. Ensure adequate hydration.
May occur during the initial 1-2 weeks as skin adjusts and undergoes remodeling. This is typically a sign of active collagen synthesis. Use a gentle exfoliant and moisturizer to manage. Resolves as skin adapts.
Dosing Reference
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Dose range | 2-5 % |
| Frequency | 1-2x daily |
| Timing | Morning and/or evening skincare routine |
| Route | Topical |
Topical application only. Typical concentration in cosmetic formulations ranges from 2-5% by weight. Start with lower concentration and increase if well-tolerated. For research purposes only.
Research disclaimer
Figures drawn from published research literature and community logs. Not clinical recommendations. Consult a qualified professional. Research use only.
Reconstitution Guide
Do not use saline or bacteriostatic saline — use only bacteriostatic water for reconstitution
Do not shake the vial vigorously; gentle swirling prevents peptide degradation
Discard immediately if the solution appears cloudy, discolored, or contains visible particles
Use within 30 days of reconstitution when stored at 2–8°C
Do not freeze the reconstituted solution; freezing may denature the peptide
Use the PeptideVolt reconstitution calculator for your exact concentration
Molecular and Pharmacological Data
| Molecular weight | 305.4 g/mol (copper-free tripeptide) |
| Half-life | Not well-characterized for topical application; systemic half-life of GHK is approximately 30-60 minutes, but topical formulations provide sustained local effects through repeated application |
| Sequence | Gly-His-Lys (GHK) — copper-free form |
Tripeptide-3 (the copper-free form of the GHK tripeptide) promotes skin rejuvenation by stimulating fibroblast activity and upregulating collagen synthesis through interaction with cell surface receptors. It enhances wound healing, increases skin elasticity, and supports tissue remodeling by activating growth factor signaling pathways and reducing inflammatory markers in the dermis.
Fibroblast Activation and Collagen Synthesis
Tripeptide-3 binds to cell surface receptors on dermal fibroblasts, triggering intracellular signaling cascades that increase mRNA expression of Type I and III collagen. This leads to enhanced collagen deposition in the extracellular matrix, improving skin firmness and reducing visible signs of aging.
Growth Factor Upregulation
The tripeptide stimulates production of transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) and other growth factors that promote tissue remodeling, angiogenesis, and wound healing. These factors enhance skin regeneration and improve overall skin quality.
Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Activity
Tripeptide-3 reduces pro-inflammatory cytokine production (IL-6, TNF-α) and enhances antioxidant enzyme activity, protecting skin from oxidative stress and reducing inflammation-driven collagen degradation.
Matrix Metalloproteinase (MMP) Modulation
The peptide regulates MMP expression, reducing excessive collagen breakdown while maintaining healthy tissue remodeling. This balance is critical for preventing wrinkle formation and supporting wound healing.
- Tripeptide-3 is the amino acid sequence GHK without copper coordination, retaining significant bioactivity for skin applications
- Stimulates Type I and III collagen synthesis in dermal fibroblasts through receptor-mediated signaling
- Enhances wound healing by promoting angiogenesis, fibroblast proliferation, and extracellular matrix remodeling
- Reduces inflammatory markers and oxidative stress in skin tissue
- Regulates matrix metalloproteinase activity to prevent excessive collagen degradation
- Topical application allows sustained local effects without systemic absorption concerns
- Synergistic effects observed when combined with other peptides or growth factors
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