Peptides, the short chains of amino acids that make up the building blocks of proteins such as keratin, elastin and collagen, have the potential to boost hair health in the same ways as they do for skin.
“Peptides are gaining attention in the hair care market, driven by the ‘skinification’ of hair care trend – where skin care principles and ingredients are applied to hair care formulations,‘’ explains director of beauty and personal care research at Mintel, Andrew McDougall.
‘‘Known for supporting hair growth through collagen production and follicle health, peptides are increasingly valued in addressing both cosmetic and scalp health needs," he continued.
“This aligns with consumer demand for products that deliver multifunctional benefits, a trend seen in regions like Europe and Asia.”
Ingredients are a key consideration for consumers
When it comes to cosmetics, the ingredients in the formulation have become a major focus for shoppers.
For example, according to Mintel consumer research, 74% of Italian hair care users are reported to be interested in learning more about the benefits of different active ingredients in hair care.
“When selecting hair products, ingredients are a key consideration for consumers, alongside performance and price,” shared McDougall.
“Familiarity with ingredients, often informed by trusted professionals such as dermatologists and hair stylists, plays a significant role,” he said.
“Additionally, digital platforms and social media increasingly guide consumer choices, reflecting the growing accessibility of ingredient knowledge.‘’
“Regenerative properties”
One product line that is currently utilising the benefits of peptides is KeraFactor. The brand has also combined the topical product with advanced technology to form KeraLase, which is “an aesthetic treatment delivering peptide-based regeneration.”
‘‘Peptides have gained significant attention in the beauty industry for their regenerative properties, and their benefits extend well beyond skin care into hair and scalp health,‘’ comments Lauren Bartholomeusz, who is VP of global practice development at KeraFactor.
‘‘In hair care, peptides play a crucial role in stimulating follicular activity, enhancing scalp circulation, and reinforcing the hair’s natural strength," she explained.
“They act as signalling molecules, triggering cellular responses that promote hair rejuvenation, improve healing, and support the integrity of the scalp.”
Bartholomeusz said that biomimetic growth factors are among the most advantageous peptides and that these replicate the body’s natural signals to encourage follicular regeneration. “These targeted peptides help address key deficiencies in the scalp environment, aiding in the restoration of healthier, fuller-looking hair,” she shared.
Described as the ultimate scalp facial for hair regeneration, KeraLase combines Cynosure Lutronic LaseMD Ultra 1927nm laser with KeraFactorMD Serum to optimise scalp health and improve hair rejuvenation.
Its LaseMD Ultra system “creates microchannels in the scalp,” it says, “allowing for increased absorption of KeraFactorMD serum - which contains a set of biomimetic polypeptides and growth factors for scalp revitalisation.”
‘‘One of the components we are most proud of is Follistatin (FST), a powerful growth factor that plays a critical role in hair follicle regeneration and growth cycle regulation,“ adds Bartholomeusz.
“Synthesising FST took us nearly nine years of research and development, making it one of the most advanced and unique peptides in hair restoration today,” she continued.
‘‘This peptide works by reducing inflammation, promoting the anagen phase of the hair life cycle, and supporting the reactivation of dormant follicles."
Formulated with PDRN
Out of eight highly concentrated biomimetic growth factors and skin proteins, Bartholomeusz said the brand has incorporated two compounds into its product.
The first compound is polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN), which is widely recognised for its ability to enhance cell regeneration, repair damaged tissues, and promote healing at the scalp level.
“By improving microcirculation and cellular turnover, PDRN creates an optimal environment for follicle recovery, making the KeraFactorMD Serum even more effective,” she explained.
The second compound is the brand’s NanoFluorosome technology, which it dubbed “a breakthrough in anti-inflammatory and anti-androgenic treatment, designed to reduce inflammation and minimise follicle miniaturisation, two key factors in hair thinning and loss.”
Bartholomeusz said the technology’s natural fluorescence can be activated by specific laser or light sources in the 630- 690nm to further enhance its effects.
“By selecting these advanced biomimetic growth factors and regenerative compounds, we ensure that KeraFactor delivers unmatched efficacy in scalp and hair revitalisation,’ she explained.
The brand said it is now looking to make future investments in peptide innovations that “not only stimulate follicular activity but also improve scalp barrier function, and long-term hair vitality,” she shared.
Further ‘skinification’ of hair
Looking to the future, McDougall predicts that further attention will be given to skin care ingredients in the hair care category.
“While peptides are likely to remain prominent, other skin care-inspired ingredients such as hyaluronic acid for hydration, and niacinamide for scalp health, may also gain traction as the trend evolves,” he said.
“The efficacy of peptides in hair care is still emerging, so we expect innovation in this area to continue as brands explore effective solutions.‘’
