Hair Growth Protocol
GHK-Cu + Copper Tripeptide-1 + PTD-DBM
Stimulate hair growth, reduce hair loss, and reactivate dormant follicles
Overview
A topical peptide stack targeting multiple hair growth pathways. GHK-Cu and Copper Tripeptide-1 (which are closely related copper peptides) stimulate hair follicle growth, increase follicle size, and extend the anagen (growth) phase. PTD-DBM is an emerging peptide that inhibits the Wnt/beta-catenin antagonist CXXC5, potentially reactivating dormant hair follicles.
Component Peptides
Copper peptide — enlarges hair follicles, stimulates growth, extends anagen phase, and promotes scalp blood flow
Hair follicle stimulant — closely related to GHK-Cu, supports follicle neogenesis and dermal papilla cell proliferation
Wnt pathway activator — inhibits CXXC5 to activate beta-catenin signaling in hair follicle stem cells, potentially reactivating dormant follicles
Expected Timeline
Reduced shedding at 4-6 weeks. New vellus hair growth at 8-12 weeks. Visible thickening and coverage improvements at 3-6 months. Full assessment requires 6-12 months due to hair growth cycle length.
Safety Notes
- Topical application minimizes systemic risks
- Scalp irritation, redness, or itching possible — do a patch test first
- Copper peptides may cause temporary hair shedding in the first 2-4 weeks (similar to minoxidil shed)
- PTD-DBM has very limited safety data — use with caution
- Do not combine with other strong actives (retinoids, strong acids) on the scalp simultaneously
- Take progress photos monthly for objective assessment
Bloodwork Recommendations
- Ferritin and iron levels (iron deficiency is a common hair loss cause)
- Thyroid panel (hypothyroidism causes hair loss)
- Vitamin D levels
- DHT and total testosterone (if androgenetic alopecia suspected)
- Copper and zinc levels
- CBC
Contraindications
- Known allergy to copper or copper compounds
- Active scalp infections or open wounds
- Scalp conditions requiring medical treatment (severe psoriasis, etc.)
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
Evidence Assessment
GHK-Cu has some in vitro data showing hair follicle effects and is widely used in cosmetic formulations. Copper Tripeptide-1 has similar preclinical data. PTD-DBM is based on a single promising Korean study (Choi et al., 2017) showing hair regrowth in mice through CXXC5 inhibition. No human trials exist for this combination or for PTD-DBM. The protocol is emerging and largely based on theoretical mechanisms.
References
- Pyo HK, et al. "The effect of tripeptide-copper complex on human hair growth in vitro." Arch Pharm Res. 2007;30(7):834-839.
- Choi BY, et al. "Targeting of CXXC5 by a Competing Peptide Stimulates Hair Regrowth and Wound-Induced Hair Neogenesis." J Invest Dermatol. 2017;137(11):2260-2269.
- Pickart L. "The human tri-peptide GHK and tissue remodeling." J Biomater Sci Polym Ed. 2008;19(8):969-988.
Research Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. All products referenced are for in vitro laboratory research use only. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before beginning any research protocol.