Peptide serums have become a mainstay of skin-care routines for their ability to repair and improve skin—but why should your face exclusively reap those rewards? When applied to the scalp, peptides for hair growth can help hydrate, prevent breakage, alleviate inflammation, and foster new, stronger strands. “Long story short, a healthy scalp leads to healthy hair,” says trichologist Kerry Yates.
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Peptides are short chains of amino acids, which you may recall from high school biology are the building blocks of proteins. Your body naturally makes them, so when you apply peptides to skin, your body recognizes them and responds accordingly. “Our bodies combine peptides in various sequences to function as cellular messengers to help repair, rebuild, or regenerate,” explains board-certified internist and longevity expert Dr. Amanda Kahn. In the case of your scalp, peptides work by telling cells to turn on genes for hair growth and thickness, as well as triggering the release of growth factors, says board-certified dermatologist Dr. Kiran Mian. “They promote elongation of hair, an increase in the hair growth phase, and improve amino acid content of hair, for smoother healthier hair,” she adds.
Ahead, experts recommend five different serums that feature peptides for hair growth, plus the key ingredients in each.
Best for Hair Thinning and Loss: Vegamour GRO+ Advanced Hair Serum
Best for Breakage: Nutrafol Women Hair Serum
Best Budget: The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Serum for Hair Density
Best for Flaky Scalps: Divi Scalp Serum
Best for Dry Scalps: Better Not Younger Superpower+ Advanced Densifying Serum
Everything You Need to Know
