Vilon vs AHK-Cu
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
- Summary
- Vilon is a synthetic dipeptide (Lys-Glu) derived from the thymus gland extract Thymalin. The shortest immune-regulatory peptide known, Vilon modulates T-cell and NK-cell function, extends lifespan in animal models, and shows epigenetic anti-aging activity. It is one of the Khavinson peptide bioregulators.
- AHK-Cu is a copper tripeptide composed of alanine, histidine, and lysine chelated to copper. Distinct from GHK-Cu, AHK-Cu exhibits strong affinity for hair follicle receptors and demonstrates potent hair growth stimulation alongside wound healing and skin regeneration properties.
- Half-Life
- Very short as a free dipeptide; effects mediated via gene regulation
- Hours (topical, variable by formulation)
- Admin Route
- SubQ, Oral
- Topical, Scalp application, Subcutaneous (research)
- Research
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- Typical Dose
- 1–2 mg SC daily or 5–10 mg oral daily
- 0.01–0.1% concentration
- Frequency
- Once daily
- Once or twice daily
- Key Benefits
- Immune system modulation and restoration
- Lifespan extension (30–40% in animal studies)
- T-cell and NK-cell activation
- Epigenetic anti-aging activity
- Reduces oxidative stress markers
- Antioxidant gene upregulation
- May prevent age-related immune senescence
- Anti-tumor immune surveillance
- Stimulates hair follicle growth and reduces shedding
- Increases dermal papilla cell proliferation
- Promotes wound healing and skin regeneration
- Antioxidant protection via superoxide dismutase activation
- Improves skin elasticity and firmness
- Supports collagen and elastin production
- Side Effects
- Excellent safety profile, decades of Russian clinical use
- Rare: mild injection site reaction
- Very rare: mild allergic reaction
- Generally well-tolerated topically
- Mild scalp irritation or redness in sensitive individuals
- Possible temporary hair shedding phase at treatment initiation
- Copper accumulation with excessive systemic use (rare)
- Stacks With
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