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Are Peptides the Secret to Fuller Hair?
Experts weigh in on the buzzy ingredient for growth and retention
Hair loss and thinning are quite common, especially as we age. There's no shortage of over-the-counter treatments to help with retention and growth, like supplements, LED hair masks, and scalp serums. But one ingredient that's become ubiquitous in skincare and lip balms is the latest buzzword in the world of hair growth: Peptides. But are they an effective solution?
Shop the Best Peptides for Hair Growth
“Peptides are small chains of amino acids that make up proteins, and when they bind to a receptor on the surface of a cell, they set in motion various cellular processes,” trichologist Shab Caspara tells Bazaar. “They can protect the hair follicle at its source of growth and increase cell turnover." Copper peptides, in particular, have become popular in skincare lately for their ability to encourage collagen production and enhance skin firmness and elasticity. For hair in particular, these peptides "boost the functionality of the follicle by reducing inflammation, stimulating stem cells, protecting it from oxidative stress, and extending its growth phase,” Caspara adds.
Interested in adding peptides to your hair lineup? Ahead, Caspara and dermatologist Kiran Mian share more intel on how peptides work and their hair growth benefits. Keep scrolling for a few of the best peptide products for hair that come expert and reviewer-approved for strength and fullness.
Pros
- Easy to use
Cons
- May take up to 90 days for visible results
Developed by a wellness expert and a leading research scientist in regenerative hair growth, these restorative gummies aim to minimize hair loss after three months of use. Their peptide complex stimulates collagen production, which has been studied to help anchor hair follicles and delivers nutrients to the root to help stimulate new growth.
Customer review: "I have been dealing with tons of hair loss since I'm aging and it is terrible. These had such great reviews so I wanted to give it a try and I can say that the smaller hair in the front of my head has started to grow longer which is amazing to see." —Patti R.
The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Serum for Hair Density
Pros
- Alcohol-free
Cons
- Best used on clean, dry hair
This hair growth serum from The Ordinary is loved by reviewers and dermatologists alike. Mian recommends it for its "combination of copper peptides and plant-based hair growth stimulants, like redensyl,” which targets stem cells at the base of the hair follicle to reduce hair loss. And at under $25, it's also a great option for those new to hair growth serums.
Customer review: "Just bought my second bottle. Absolutely love this stuff. Totally made a difference in my hair and scalp health. Never leaves my hair greasy." —evergreen111
Pros
- Color-safe
- Helps boost shine
Cons
- Subtle citrus, floral scent may be off-putting to some
Experts recommend swapping your go-to shampoo for this hair growth option from Vegamour. It uses strengthening peptides and caffeine to stimulate the scalp while fortifying your hair. Plus, hydrators like glycerin and aloe leaf juice work to revive damaged hair and lend to added fullness.
Customer review: "I have tried multiple hair thinning but this product is bar far superior. I have used it for a few weeks and already see my hair is thicker and more vibrant." —DolciAnastasia
Pros
- Dermatologist-tested
- Expert-approved
- Helps reduce scalp inflammation
Cons
- Subtle lavender scent may be off-putting to some
Here's a serum that uses copper peptides to activate hair follicles that may have become dormant over time. Mian also likes that it includes ginseng and skullcap, two antioxidant-rich ingredients that have been studied to help fight against hair loss and accelerated graying.
Customer review: "On my second bottle and seeing my crown starting to fill in so soon is incredible. It's the first product that's made a real difference." —David K.
Pros
- Non-greasy
- Lightweight
Cons
- Subtle scent may be off-putting to some
Another of our favorite hair growth serums, this option combines two powerful peptides, biotinoyl tripeptide-1 and acetyl tetrapeptide-3, to stimulate follicle cells and fortify strands. According to reviewers, the formula is also super lightweight.
Customer review: "I’m very happy with Peptide Hair Serum from Infina Essentials! I’ve been using it for a few weeks and have already noticed significant improvements—my hair feels stronger, sheds less, and looks healthier." —Tetiana S.
Act+Acre 3% Stem Cell Peptide H3-Grow+ Complex Scalp Treatment
Pros
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- Over $100
Act+Acre's scalp treatment has hundreds of reviews and a near five-star rating at Sephora. Shoppers mention experiencing significant hair growth after just a few weeks of use. In addition to growth-promoting peptides and antioxidants, it also features niacinamide to create a healthy, hydrated skin environment.
Customer review: "I started using this product when it launched as I already had seen good results from the 2% serum. I love the way the serum feels, the mint tingles a bit and the spray makes it super easy to apply." —Anonymous
Pros
- Alcohol-free
- Dermatologist-tested
- Can be used on dry or damp hair
Cons
- May take up to 90 days for visible results
The standout ingredient in Nécessaire's scalp serum is Capixyl, a patented complex of acetyl tetrapeptide-3 and red clover extract that work to strengthen hair follicles and reduce inflammation. Free of harsh additives like parabens, silicones, and synthetic fragrances, the lightweight, nongreasy formula has even earned the National Eczema Association's stamp of approval.
Customer review: "This has helped me stimulate regrowth of some of the hair I lost due to Covid, getting older, and some medications. It has been very exciting to see." —Susan K.
Meet the experts
- Shab Caspara is a board-certified trichologist and founder of Leona.co, an online hair growth concierge.
- Dr. Kiran Mian is a board-certified medical and aesthetic dermatologist in New York City.
Can peptides help with hair growth and loss?
While using peptides for hair growth likely won't take you from Charlie Brown to Rapunzel overnight, Mian says they can help improve hair density over time.
“Copper peptides stimulate angiogenesis, allowing for more blood flow and nutrients to hair follicles," the derm says. "They also promote the growth of dermal papilla cells, which help the development of the hair follicle and inhibit a transition into the regressive phase.” In other words, instead of falling out prematurely, the hair has an extended life span, which allows it to grow longer rather than shortening over time.
How long does it take to see results from peptide treatments?
According to experts, results from the peptide formulas for hair can vary from person to person. “Like any hair growth protocol, with daily compliance, one can expect to see hair growth after three months with the naked eye," Caspara says. "With advanced camera technology, you can see results after four to eight weeks."
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For more than 150 years, Harper’s Bazaar has been the preeminent fashion and beauty resource for women at every age. We cover what’s new and what’s next in beauty by working with the world’s leading authorities in dermatology, plastic surgery, cosmetics, skincare, haircare, and fragrance. Every story we publish has been thoroughly researched and vetted by our team of beauty editors and industry experts.
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