Peptides are short chains of amino acids; proteins are longer chains. In scalp care they are used for conditioning and as cosmetic actives. Some, such as copper peptides, have been studied in labs, but ingredient research does not prove that a specific product grows hair.
Why they are used
Proteins can coat and condition hair, and some peptides are studied for effects on skin cells.
Stability
Proteins can be delicate, which is why some products, like Folli-Fuel's powder, are freeze-dried and mixed fresh.
Questions
Are peptides the same as collagen?
Collagen is one protein; peptides can come from many sources.
Can peptides cause allergy?
Any ingredient can. If you have a seafood or fish allergy, tell us before any Folli-Fuel session, because it contains caviar extract.
Studies mentioned
These studies looked at ingredients or general approaches. None of them tested our treatments or products, so they are background, not proof.
- Angkawinitwong U et al. (2015). Solid-state protein formulations. Ther Deliv 6(1):59-82.Review (pharmaceutical technology). Proteins and peptides in liquid form often degrade during handling; solid formulations, including freeze-dried products, are used to maintain stability during storage and transport.PubMed 25565441doi:10.4155/tde.14.98
- Pickart L et al. (2015). GHK Peptide as a Natural Modulator of Multiple Cellular Pathways in Skin Regeneration. Biomed Res Int 2015:648108.Review. The copper peptide GHK-Cu, naturally present in plasma and declining with age, supports skin repair, collagen and glycosaminoglycan synthesis, and wound healing including of hair follicles in animal studies.PubMed 26236730doi:10.1155/2015/648108