Peptides For Hair Growth | A Comprehensive Review

Interested in a detailed breakdown of the best peptides for hair based on clinical data? If so, this is the right place.

In this detailed guide, we'll delve into a range of peptides and peptide blends that may provide benefits related to hair growth, including:

• Increasing hair growth and thickness
• Reducing inflammation and improving scalp healing
• Reducing hair follicle shrinkage and hair loss

Keep reading to find out the most effective peptides that can be included in hair growth research, including data on their effectiveness, safety, and forms of administration.

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Best Peptides For Hair Growth | Top 3

Below, we outline three of the most prominent and widely-studied compounds that may have benefits for hair growth:

1. GHK-Cu

GHK-Cu, a copper tripeptide found in blood plasma and other body fluids, promotes tissue healing, especially in the skin. It acts as a collagen repair signal, balancing the production and degradation of collagen and other extracellular proteins, thus rejuvenating the extracellular components. Additionally, GHK-Cu injections may mitigate hair loss by suppressing overexpressed transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGFB1) in balding scalps, thus preventing the shrinkage of hair follicles [1, 2, 3].

2. Collagen Peptides

Collagen peptides are small peptide fragments that may be orally administered to provide essential amino acids to support the body's production of extracellular matrix components. Their intake has been associated with improved skin hydration and elasticity. Moreover, studies indicate that fish-derived collagen peptides given orally may enhance hair growth similarly to certain medications by promoting hair regrowth factors and human dermal papilla cell proliferation [4].

3. Folitin

Folitin is a proprietary blend of topical peptides with undisclosed ingredients aimed at promoting hair growth. The blend includes a growth factor peptide, copper peptide (potentially reducing cell apoptosis in the dermal papilla and suppressing TGFB1), B-vitamin conjugated peptide, and antioxidant and anti-inflammatory peptide, which could enhance collagen production, reduce inflammation, and bolster antioxidant protection against hair loss factors.

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What are Research Peptides?

Occurring in all living organisms, peptides are organic molecules that can also be synthesized in laboratories for therapeutic or investigational applications.

In terms of structure, peptides are chains of amino acids linked by peptide bonds, meaning that they are proteins. Most peptides exhibit a linear structure, but some have cyclical or branched structures.

Generally, each peptide comprises a single polypeptide chain, although there are some notable exceptions. Insulin, the very first peptide to be utilized therapeutically, consists of two chains, although the molecule is translated as a single chain that later gets a curved region, called the C peptide, chopped out of it.

By convention, a protein is called a peptide if it has an amino acid sequence ranging from 2 to 50 amino acids or a little more (insulin has 51 amino acids). The sequence of amino acids is what delineates a given peptide's properties [5].

Although shorter than proteins, peptides are crucial for numerous indispensable physiological functions, including but not limited to:

• Hormonal signaling
• Cellular regulation
• Neurotransmission
• Tissue healing

Thus, the concept of replicating peptides’ functions through laboratory-created analogs has garnered substantial interest in various fields of research [6, 7].

One of these fields of research is hair growth and balding, as several peptides have shown potential for modifying cellular proliferation and apoptosis, keratin synthesis, vascularization, growth factor expression, and more.

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How Do Peptides Work For Hair Growth?

Peptides for hair growth work via a variety of mechanisms to improve the growth and proliferation of cells in the hair follicles, which ultimately contribute to hair growth. These include cells such as dermal papilla cells and keratinocytes (matrix cells) [8].

Below, we outline select mechanisms via which peptides have been shown to improve hair growth in experimental settings:

• Thymosin beta-4 (a naturally-occurring peptide found in various cells) has been suggested to improve hair growth primarily by promoting the migration of stem cells and hair-clonogenic keratinocytes (stem-like cells) to the base of the hair follicles [9].
• Thymosin beta-4 was also reported to increase vascularization near hair follicles, which may help increase their blood and nutrient supply. This is achieved via the upregulation of growth factors related to vascularization, such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) [9].
• Copper peptides like AHK-Cu (a naturally-occurring peptide found in human blood) have been shown to inhibit the apoptosis (cellular death) of dermal papilla cells—specialized fibroblasts, which are important in the morphogenesis and growth of hair follicles [10].

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Peptide Therapy and Hair Growth | Reviews and Results

As of writing, peptides for hair growth have been studied predominantly either in in vitro or animal experiments. Clinical data on the effects of these peptides in humans are lacking.

Based on the available evidence, here are some of the most notable results from preclinical studies that showcase the effectiveness of peptides for hair growth:

• Oral administration of fish-derived collagen peptides to mice has been suggested to improve hair growth to a similar degree as the hair loss medication finasteride. The peptides increased expression of hair growth factors like IGF-1, VEGF, krt27, Gprc5d, and Ki67 while decreasing the growth inhibitory factor TGFB1. They also significantly promoted hair regrowth and the proliferation of human dermal papilla cells in vitro [4].
• Several studies in animals with overexpressed genes for the naturally occurring thymosin beta-4 peptide, report accelerated hair growth. The studies also report faster regrowth and a greater number of hair shafts [11, 12, 13]. Research also suggests that similar effects can be observed when exogenically applying the peptide or its active sequence LKKTETQ [14].
• Researchers report hair shaft thickening and hair growth support observed from subcutaneously delivered GHK-Cu [3].

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Best Peptides For Hair Growth | Top 6

Below, we outline some of the most notable peptides and peptide blends that scientists should consider when designing their hair growth studies.

GHK-Cu

GHK-Cu is a tripeptide (glycyl-l-histidyl-l-lysine-copper), also known as a copper tripeptide, that was discovered as an endogenous compound in blood plasma by American researcher Dr. Loren Pickart [1].

GHK-Cu was found to facilitate the production of proteins in aged liver cells that were more characteristic of younger samples. Later, the researchers discovered that this copper tripeptide can also facilitate the healing of other tissues, especially the skin [2].

GHK-Cu is thought to work as a signal for the repair of collagen, which is the main protein that gives skin its strength and structural support. GHK-Cu upregulates both the production and degradation of collagen and other extracellular proteins, increasing collagen turnover and facilitating the replacement of old extracellular components with new ones.

Further, GHK-Cu injections have been shown to suppress the expression of transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGFB1), which is overexpressed in the skin of balding scalps. TGFB1 is thought to contribute to hair loss as it facilitates fibrosis (scarring) around hair follicles and their shrinkage [3].

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Collagen Peptides

Collagen peptides are small peptide fragments derived from bovine and fish connective tissues and are rich in type 1 collagen. They form via hydrolysis of large collagen 1 molecules. These compounds contain glycine alongside either proline or hydroxyproline and other amino acids [15].

Collagen peptides have been shown in numerous studies to exert benefits for skin health, such as by enhancing skin hydration and elasticity. Marine-derived collagen peptides have also been shown to improve hair growth in murine models of hair loss [16, 17, 18].

More specifically, a study suggests that collagen peptides may increase the expression of growth factors that stimulate cell proliferation and vascularization, such as IGF-1, VEGF, krt27, Gprc5d, and Ki67. Further, they may suppress the expression of TGFB1, which is known to cause fibrosis and hair follicle shrinkage, thus contributing to balding [4].

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Folitin

Folitin is Entera Skincare’s proprietary blend of several topical peptides. However, the ingredients in this blend are undisclosed, and we cannot cite specific evidence to support unknown compounds. Despite the lack of information, the manufacturer shares that the blend contains peptides within the following categories:

• Growth factor peptide: Peptides that stimulate or act similarly to growth factors like insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) may facilitate hair follicle production and therefore increase hair growth [19].
• Copper peptide: Copper peptides like AHK-Cu or GHK-Cu have been suggested to reduce dermal papilla cell apoptosis and upregulate their proliferation [10]. They may also suppress levels of TGFB1, which stimulates balding [3].
• B-vitamin conjugated peptide: The peptide blend in Folitin fuses the advantages of a vital B vitamin with the functions of a peptide. B vitamins such as biotin are essential for keratin synthesis and promoting hair growth [20].
• Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory peptide: Peptides with antioxidative effects may boost collagen, mitigate inflammation, and bolster the body's antioxidant protection to combat hair loss factors.

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CJC-1295

CJC-1295 DAC is a modified version of the smallest sequence of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH). Specifically, the peptide is a tetrasubstituted version that is also commonly modified with the integration of a drug affinity complex (DAC) that prolongs its half-life to up to 8 days [21, 22].

CJC-1295 DAC was originally developed by Canadian biotechnology firm ConjuChem for increasing GH levels and managing lipodystrophy in HIV/AIDS patients. It has been proven to reliably increase GH levels in human subjects [23].

Increased GH also stimulates the production of IGF-1 in the liver, as well as in peripheral tissues such as the skin and the scalp.

CJC-1295 DAC has not been researched regarding its potential for reducing balding and increasing hair growth.

Yet, IGF-1 downregulation may be one of the important mechanisms contributing to baldness [19]. Peptides like CJC-1295 DAC may counteract this process by upregulating IGF-1 levels in the body.

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GHRP-2

GHRP-2 is a synthetic agonist of ghrelin and thus binds to the ghrelin receptors throughout the body. This includes ghrelin receptors in the pituitary gland, which are also known as the growth hormone secretagogue (GHS) receptors.

The peptide has been reported to stimulate GH secretion and increase appetite in clinical trials [24].

Despite the fact that research on GHRP-2's potential for hair growth is lacking, the peptide upregulates GH levels and consequently increases IGF-1, which may help increase the levels of this growth factor in the scalp and lower the risk of balding [19].

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BPC-157

BPC-157, also known as Body Protection Compound 157, is a synthetic peptide that has garnered attention for its potential healing and regenerative properties. The peptide is thought to work in a variety of ways, including by increasing vascularization and stimulating growth factors [25].

It has been acknowledged for its potential in wound healing, tendon repair, and inflammatory bowel disease research, which could be correlated to its regenerative capabilities [26, 27].

Although the research specifically focusing on BPC-157's role in hair growth is not abundant, there is limited evidence hinting at its potential in this regard:

• The peptide is known to enhance the production of growth factors, which play a pivotal role in tissue repair and regeneration. This stimulation of growth factors can potentially encourage the growth of new hair follicles [28].
• BPC-157 may stimulate new blood vessel growth, increasing vascularization and blood flow, thus promoting cell growth and possibly aiding in hair follicle regeneration. It also has wound healing properties, which may support a healthy scalp [29].

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Hair Growth Serums and Peptides | A-Z Guide

The main driver of hair growth lies in the hair follicles, which are dynamic organs found in the dermis of the skin where the roots of the hairs reside.

Each hair follicle harbors stem cells and various other cell types, such as dermal papilla cells and keratinocytes (matrix cells), that play crucial roles in the formation and growth of hair. Keratinocytes specifically produce keratin, which is the main protein comprising the hair shaft.

Hair growth occurs in a cyclic manner in three distinct phases [30]:

• Anagen (growth phase): the cells in the hair follicle and root rapidly divide, leading to the growth of the hair shaft.
• Catagen (transitional phase): the hair follicle undergoes a period of transition where growth ceases and the hair detaches from the blood supply.
• Telogen (resting phase): a resting period that culminates in the shedding of hair, following which the follicle re-enters the anagen phase to begin the cycle anew.

The potential of peptides to augment hair growth revolves around their ability to modulate various cellular and molecular processes within the hair follicle, such as by extending the anagen phase.

They can be administered systemically via injections but also topically, as many peptides can easily penetrate the scalp and reach the hair follicles to exert their effects. As mentioned, peptides can have a variety of beneficial effects to the scalp and hair, including:

• Improving blood flow to the scalp, thus enhancing the delivery of nutrients and oxygen to the hair follicles [9].
• Stimulating the production of essential proteins like keratin and collagen, which provide structural integrity to the hair [10].
• Boosting the expression of growth factors that promote cell proliferation and differentiation, which are crucial steps for transitioning from the resting to the growth phases of the hair cycle [19].
• Exerting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory action that mitigate scalp inflammation [1, 2].
• Inhibiting the expression of certain genes or molecules that lead to cellular apoptosis and hinder hair growth [3].

Through these multifaceted interactions, peptides support a robust and prolonged anagen phase, fostering thicker, fuller, and healthier hair over time.

Peptide-based serums such as Folitin include several peptides that together provide the aforementioned benefits and a complex approach to research into hair growth.

The proprietary blend of peptides found in this serum contains growth-factor peptides, copper peptides, B-vitamin conjugates peptides, and antioxidant and anti-inflammatory peptides, which work together to boost keratin synthesis and promote hair growth.

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Peptides Side Effects and Safety

Peptides for hair growth encompass a wide range of compounds, each with its specific benefits, potential side effects, and contraindications. Below, we outline the potential side effects of the most notable peptides mentioned in this review:

• GHK-Cu appears to be well-tolerated when applied as either an injection or a topical formulation. Studies do not report any side effects, although researchers should be mindful of the limited amount of available evidence and the risk of local side effects with injectable GHK-Cu [2].
• Collagen peptides are widely used in dietary supplements and have undergone extensive research for their safety. Studies do not report any side effects associated with the oral administration of collagen peptides [31].
• CJC-1295 works by upregulating GH and IGF-1 levels. The peptide has been associated with mild to moderate side effects, including injection site reactions, headaches, nausea, abdominal pain, and flushing [32]. Increased water retention and edemas are also possible.
• GHRP-2 also works by upregulating GH and IGF-1 levels. In addition, the peptide also increases appetite levels, which is the main side effect reported with its use [24]. Injection site reactions are also possible.

Researchers should note that GH-boosting peptides such as CJC-1295 and GHRP-2 are contraindicated in subjects with a history of malignant disease, as the increase in GH may also promote cell proliferation.

For information on concerns of unproven, but plausible complications related to the long-term use of any of these products, see our peptide-specific articles on side effects and complications.

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Peptides For Hair Growth | Dosage Guide

When conducting research into hair growth, it is essential to employ a suitable dosing schedule for each compound to maximize outcomes.

Therefore, we will now analyze the latest available data on some of the most effective peptides and blends mentioned above to extract information on optimal dosing:

• GHK-Cu is a research peptide that is not approved for human use and thus lacks a recommended or safe dosage. Yet, previous researchers have suggested that the peptide can be dose effectively at 1-2mg/daily, administered once per day subcutaneously for up to 30 consecutive days. Each 30-day course should be followed by a 30-day washout period [33].
• Folitin should be administered to a dry and clean area of the scalp at a dose of 2-3 drops and then gently massaged into the scalp for 30 seconds. Dermarolling or microneedling with Folitin is also possible.
• Collagen peptides have been administered effectively at oral doses between 2.5-10g for skin health and collagen synthesis [18]. Similar doses can be expected to yield benefits for hair growth, but be sure to check the product labeling for guidance.

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Peptides to Stop Hair Loss | Verdict

Peptides and peptide blends may have potential to improve hair growth and thickness by tackling various factors that contribute to hair loss.

These include peptides such as GHK-Cu, BPC-157, and CJC-1295, as well as topical peptide blends such as Folitin and oral supplements that contain collagen peptides.

To maximize research outcomes, scientists may also consider the combination of injectable peptides with topical formulations and/or orally administered collagen peptides.

Qualified professionals interested in obtaining peptides for hair growth like GHK-Cu, BPC-157, and CJC-1295 are advised to buy strictly from a reputable vendor.

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