The Science Behind Tricomin's System: How the Shampoo, Conditioner and AHK-Cu Treatment Spray Work Together
Tricomin® Clinical's Hair Strengthening System is a three-step regimen built around one principle: hair appearance depends on both the scalp, where hair is produced, and the strand, which must withstand daily wear. This article explains how the system's three products address the scalp and the strand, what each key ingredient is intended to do, and how to use the regimen.
For a detailed look at the system's central ingredient, see our AHK-Cu copper peptide overview.
Shedding Versus Breakage
Hair cycles through growth, transition and rest phases, so some daily shedding is normal, and heavier shedding often has seasonal or physiological triggers. Our article on why fall is hair shedding season covers the hair cycle and what is typical.
The Tricomin system addresses two distinct concerns, so it helps to distinguish shedding from breakage:
- Shedding is loss of the entire hair from the follicle, often with a small bulb visible at the root.
- Breakage is a strand fracturing along its length, with no bulb and often a short, frayed end.
Shedding relates to the scalp and follicle. Breakage relates to the strength and condition of the strand. A complete hair and scalp routine addresses both.
The Scalp Environment
The scalp is skin, with sebaceous glands, sweat glands and a tendency to accumulate residue. Styling products, dry shampoo, environmental particulates and excess sebum can build up around follicle openings. Over time this may leave the scalp feeling heavy or irritated and hair looking flat. Cleansing the scalp thoroughly is therefore the first step, and it prepares the scalp for the leave-in treatment that follows.
The Three Steps
Step 1: Cleanse with the Densifying Shampoo
Purpose: remove buildup and deliver active ingredients to a clean scalp.
The Densifying Shampoo removes residue and excess oil and delivers Copper Tripeptide Complex (AHK-Cu) along with pea sprout extract, hydrolyzed quinoa, arginine and botanical extracts. It is formulated to add body and fullness and is safe for color-treated hair. Massage into the scalp and leave on for 1 to 3 minutes before rinsing to allow adequate contact time.
Step 2: Condition with the Fortifying Conditioner
Purpose: protect the existing hair shaft.
Whereas the Densifying Shampoo focuses on the scalp, the Fortifying Conditioner focuses on the length of the hair. It nourishes, repairs and restores, helping reduce the roughness and brittleness that contribute to breakage. Reducing breakage helps hair retain its length and its full appearance.
Step 3: Treat with the 1% AHK-Cu Treatment Spray
Purpose: provide continued contact with the active ingredients between washes.
The 1% AHK-Cu Treatment Spray is a leave-in step. After towel-drying, spray liberally throughout the hair and scalp, comb through, and do not rinse. It may also be applied to dry hair. Because it remains on the scalp, it provides longer contact of AHK-Cu than a rinse-off product. For best results, use twice daily.
For convenience, the Hair Strengthening System includes all three products in one full routine while the Travel System Kit supports consistent use while traveling.
Key Ingredients and Their Intended Roles
The descriptions below reflect how each ingredient is formulated and described on the Tricomin Clinical product pages. Some are long-established hair-care ingredients, while others are newer and have more limited research, as noted.
- Copper Tripeptide Complex (AHK-Cu). The central active. A copper-binding peptide examined in a 2007 laboratory study (Pyo et al., Archives of Pharmacal Research), in which it stimulated elongation of isolated human hair follicles and proliferation of dermal papilla cells. This is laboratory evidence, not a clinical trial of finished products.
- Pinanediol Complex. Included to support scalp microcirculation, with the aim of promoting a healthier scalp environment and the appearance of thicker hair.
- Pea sprout extract. A plant-derived extract included to help revitalize the scalp and support the appearance of denser hair.
- Hydrolyzed quinoa. A plant protein that conditions the hair, helps protect against breakage and helps preserve color.
- Arginine. An amino acid and antioxidant that nourishes the scalp and helps reduce hair damage and breakage.
- Panthenol (vitamin B5). A moisturizing ingredient that improves moisture retention, so hair looks thicker and feels more elastic.
- Glycerin and aloe. Humectants that draw moisture to the hair and scalp.
- Botanical extracts, including lavender, with peppermint and menthol in the shampoo. Included to leave the scalp feeling refreshed and invigorated.
No single ingredient is intended to work in isolation. The Tricomin system is designed around the 3-step combination: a clean scalp, protected strands and a leave-in step that maintains contact with the active ingredients.
Why a Regimen Rather Than a Single Product
A consistent hair care regimen can support both scalp health and the appearance of stronger, fuller-looking hair. While each Tricomin product serves a different purpose, using them together creates a complementary approach to cleansing, conditioning, and targeted scalp care.
- Each step prepares for the next. A clean scalp is better positioned to receive a leave-in treatment than one coated with residue.
- It addresses both scalp and strand. Scalp support addresses the follicle side, while conditioning and protection address breakage.
- It supports adherence. Three steps that fit into an ordinary wash routine are easier to maintain, and consistency is central to results.
- The products are designed to be used in sequence. A sequential, 3-step daily hair care routine removes guesswork about layering and what to use when.
Tracking Hair Changes Over Time
A monthly photo taken in the same lighting, from the same angle, and with the same hair part can help you track gradual changes in hair density, coverage, and overall appearance. Hair changes occur slowly, so comparing photos over several months can make subtle differences easier to recognize than relying on day-to-day observations. Consistent documentation also helps you evaluate how your hair responds to a regular care routine over time.
For a step-by-step wash-day walkthrough, see A Simple Routine for Healthier Hair in 3 Steps. For shedding-specific guidance, see our guides on building a hair shedding prevention routine and men's hair thinning: early signs and solutions. Our science page provides further detail on the research behind the formulation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need all three products, or can I use just one?
You can begin your hair journey with any single Tricomin® product; the 1% AHK-Cu Treatment Spray is a common starting point. The system is designed to be used as a sequence of cleansing, conditioning and treating, and using all three provides the complete routine.
Is the system for shedding or for breakage?
The hair care system is designed to support both. The Densifying Shampoo and 1% AHK-Cu Treatment Spray focus on scalp health and the appearance of fuller hair, while the Fortifying Conditioner helps protect strands from breakage. If shedding is sudden or patchy, or accompanied by scalp pain or other health changes, consult a dermatologist or physician, since a cosmetic routine does not replace a diagnosis.
Is it safe for color-treated hair, and is it for both men and women?
Yes. Tricomin® Clinical hair care products are safe for color-treated hair. The 3-step system is designed for anyone seeking stronger-looking, fuller-looking hair. As with any new topical product, patch test if you have sensitive skin and review the ingredient list on your packaging.
How long before I notice a difference?
Hair grows in cycles, so results are assessed over months. Allow at least three to six months of consistent use before evaluating changes, and use monthly photos for comparison. Individual results vary.
Is there an option for travel?
Yes. The Travel System Kit is intended to maintain the routine while you are away, and the Hair Strengthening System is the full-size option for daily use at home.
Conclusion
The Tricomin® Clinical system is built on a sequence rather than a single ingredient: a cleansed scalp, protected strands and a leave-in treatment that maintains contact with AHK-Cu and supporting ingredients between washes. Consistent use over several months, with realistic expectations, gives the routine the best opportunity to support hair that looks fuller and feels stronger.
Begin your routine. Shop the Hair Strengthening System for all three steps in one set. Free shipping on orders over $75.
Sources
- Pyo HK, Yoo HG, Won CH, et al. The effect of tripeptide-copper complex on human hair growth in vitro. Archives of Pharmacal Research. 2007;30(7):834-839. PMID 17703734. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17703734/
- Product and ingredient descriptions: Tricomin Clinical product pages for the Densifying Shampoo, 1% AHK-Cu Treatment Spray and Hair Strengthening System.
This content is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Tricomin Clinical products are cosmetic and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
