What are Peptides?
Peptides are short strings of amino acids, usually made up of less than 50 amino acids. They are fundamental building blocks of proteins and may play crucial roles in various biological processes.
Peptides are molecular entities consisting of amino acids interconnected by peptide bonds, giving rise to their designated nomenclature. The physiological outcomes have been suggested by researchers to vary depending on the sequence and length of the amino acid chain.
Amino acids serve as the fundamental constituents of proteins. Nevertheless, findings imply they may exhibit a wide range of functions when present in peptide form. The most prevalent among these substances is Growth Hormone (HGH), which is considered to be endogenously synthesized but may also be exogenously produced in a laboratory.
Peptides Studied in Relation to Hair Growth
One must consider multiple strategies when examining the most effective peptides for promoting hair growth, as hair regrowth may occur due to many factors. Potentially elevated levels of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) [i], reduction in dihydrotestosterone (DHT) levels [ii], and augmentation of vascular perfusion have the potential to induce follicle growth [iii].
Upon comprehensive analysis of the available data, it is suggested that multiple peptides may exhibit the potential to enhance the hair growth cycle while concurrently mitigating loss. Due to the significant dissimilarities exhibited by these compounds, it is unfeasible to assert the superiority of one over the other. These compounds are still under scientific investigation and supplies are strictly relegated to research institutes and scientists. Click here for the optimal options for acquisition if you are a licensed professional. Research studies have been examined below:
Glutathione Peptide
Glutathione is a fascinating peptide, as its primary interest within research studies has so far been unrelated to hair.
Several scientific studies have suggested a correlation between oxidative stress, hair loss, and other factors such as cardiovascular disease [iv]. It is suggested that a significant decline in Glutathione levels accompanies aging. This decline has been linked to free radical-induced damage, skin deterioration, and impaired inflammatory response.
Research suggests a deficiency in Glutathione over an extended period has been associated with reduced hair density. Consequently, findings imply the supplementation of Glutathione may potentially aid in addressing pattern hair loss.
BPC 157 Peptide
Investigations purport that BPC 157, or Body Protection Compound 157, is a peptide commonly studied in relation to muscle and joint injuries and wound healing. Researchers speculate the primary mechanism of action may involve a potential to induce angiogenesis, a process characterized by forming new blood vessels, thereby possibly promoting enhanced blood circulation.
It is understood that hair follicles are diminishing in size and ultimately undergoing complete cessation. By enhancing vascular perfusion, it is possible to stimulate the regeneration of these hair follicles potentially, or at the very least, augment the appropriate hair follicle dimensions.
As mentioned earlier, there is a shortage of scientific investigations exploring the hypothesis. While the rationale behind the explanation is coherent, seeking empirical evidence through scientific studies to substantiate assertions is imperative.
GHK-Cu Peptide
Scientists hypothesize that the GHK-Cu (glycyl-l-histidyl-l-lysine) copper-binding peptide may have some potential in hair growth mitigation research.
Studies suggest GHK-Cu and other copper peptides may promote hair regrowth by inhibiting dihydrotestosterone (DHT) synthesis. Additionally, these peptides may facilitate angiogenesis the formation of new blood vessels, thereby aiding in the enhancement of systemic blood circulation.
GHK-Cu, a distinct copper peptide, has been associated in research with the stimulation of hair regrowth, enhancement of skin elastin, safeguarding skin cells against UV radiation, mitigation of inflammation and free radical harm, and enlargement of hair follicle dimensions [v].
HGH
Growth hormone (HGH), or somatotropin, is a peptide hormone considered to be released by the anterior pituitary gland in all organisms. Research suggests that during early development, growth hormone (HGH) may play a crucial role in facilitating growth and maturation.
As organisms age, there is a noticeable decline in endogenous growth hormone (HGH) production, which findings imply may potentially be addressed through supplementation. Investigations purport that growth hormone (HGH) supplementation under laboratory conditions may induce a subsequent elevation in insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) upon introduction. Insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) may influence the process of follicular proliferation and the hair development cycle, as suggested by several studies suggesting its potential efficacy [i].
Further research is warranted to ascertain the full extent of the effects of growth hormone (HGH). Existing studies predominantly suggest a greater HGH efficacy in female test models. Nonetheless, suggested overall potential effectiveness of HGH remains considerable. The rationale behind this phenomenon lies in its many additional properties, including its potential tissue and dermal repair, and possible blood flow regulation.
References
[i] Trüeb RM. Further Clinical Evidence for the Effect of IGF-1 on Hair Growth and Alopecia. Skin Appendage Disord. 2018 Apr;4(2):90-95. doi: 10.1159/000479333. Epub 2017 Aug 23. PMID: 29765966; PMCID: PMC5939720.
[ii] Ustuner ET. Cause of androgenic alopecia: crux of the matter. Plast Reconstr Surg Glob Open. 2013 Nov 7;1(7):e64. doi: 10.1097/GOX.0000000000000005. PMID: 25289259; PMCID: PMC4174066.
[iii] Klemp P, Peters K, Hansted B. Subcutaneous blood flow in early male pattern baldness. J Invest Dermatol. 1989 May;92(5):725-6. doi: 10.1111/1523-1747.ep12721603. PMID: 2715645.
[iv] Prie BE, Iosif L, Tivig I, Stoian I, Giurcaneanu C. Oxidative stress in androgenetic alopecia. J Med Life. 2016 Jan-Mar;9(1):79-83. PMID: 27974920; PMCID: PMC5152608.
[v] Pickart L, Margolina A. Regenerative and Protective Actions of the GHK-Cu Peptide in the Light of the New Gene Data. Int J Mol Sci. 2018 Jul 7;19(7):1987. doi: 10.3390/ijms19071987. PMID: 29986520; PMCID: PMC6073405.
