Credit: Getty/courtesy of brands
Stylist Loves
Peptides: everything you need to know about these strengthening haircare ingredients
By Aidan Milan
Updated 1 year ago
All products on this page have been selected by the editorial team, however Stylist may make commission on some products purchased through affiliate links in this article
3 min read
You may have heard of peptides for your skin, but now’s the time to get your hair involved too.
Peptides are a hot topic in the haircare world, thanks in no small part to the fact that they work their magic on a range of hair types.
Whether you’re struggling with thinning hair, breakage, scalp health or you’re looking to grow your locks as long and as lusciously as possible, there are peptide products out there for everyone.
What are peptides, and what do they do?
Astrid Bellay, head of product development at Philip Kingsley, tells Stylist: “Peptides are the building blocks of proteins. They can consist of just a few amino acids or up to about 50 amino acids. In haircare, peptides are often included in products to strengthen hair fibres and promote healthy hair growth. They have a wide range of uses and are vital to hair health by promoting growth, strength and overall vitality.”
What products should people look out for?
“When selecting hair products with peptides,” says Bellay, “keep an eye out for shampoos, conditioners, serums and treatments containing peptides to address specific concerns like hair thinning or scalp health. Additionally, consider opting for leave-in conditioners and scalp treatments infused with peptides for ongoing nourishment and protection.”
What hair types and textures do peptides work best with?
“Peptides offer benefits to all hair types and textures,” Bellay explains. “They strengthen and fortify fine or thin hair, nourish strands in thick or coarse hair, repair moisture barriers in dry or damaged hair and enhance elasticity in curly or textured hair. While peptides suit various hair types, choosing products tailored to specific concerns is crucial. Individual responses vary, so experimenting with different formulations can help find what works best for your hair.”
How long should it take before you see results?
Bellay says: “Results from using haircare products containing peptides can vary. Short-term benefits like improved body, hydration and manageability may be noticed immediately. Medium- and long-term effects such as reduced hair fall will take several months of consistent use. Consistency is key for optimal results.”
Nine of our favourite peptide buys to add to your haircare routine
K18 Biometric Hairscience Leave-In Molecular Hair Mask
This leave-in mask promises to help boost your hair’s softness, smoothness, bounce and strength.
Shop K18 Biometric Hairscience Leave-In Molecular Hair Mask At Superdrug, £54.99
Beauty Pie Super Healthy Hair Strengthening Shampoo
If your hair is on the fine side, this shampoo should be right up your street.
Shop Beauty Pie Super Healthy Hair Strengthening Shampoo, £25
Kérastase Densifique Shampoo and Conditioner Hair Duo Routine
The formula for this pair of products includes super-hydrating hyaluronic acid.
Shop Kérastase Densifique Shampoo and Conditioner Hair Duo Routine at LookFantastic, £64.10
The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Serum for Hair Density
Use just a few drops of this serum once a day for thicker, happier hair.
Shop The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Serum for Hair Density at LookFantastic, £11.60
Grow Gorgeous Repair Duo
This nourishing shampoo and conditioner combo is designed to help heal old damage and protect your hair from suffering any more.
Living Proof Scalp Care Revitalizing Treatment
Big on scalp care? This overnight treatment helps strengthen your hair at the root.
Shop Living Proof Scalp Care Revitalizing Treatment at LookFantastic, £31
Revolution Haircare R-Peptide 4x4 Leave-In Repair Mask
This vegan leave-in mask helps to keep your hair safe against chemical and heat styling.
Shop Revolution Haircare R-Peptide 4x4 Leave-In Repair Mask at LookFantastic, £12
Kevin Murphy Thick Again
If you’ve got thinning hair, this leave-in treatment is designed to come straight to your rescue.
The Inkey List Peptide Volumizing Hair Treatment
This serum helps increase your hair’s thickness and volume from the very first use.
L'Oréal Professionnel Serié Expert Absolut Repair Molecular Leave-in Mask
A lightweight leave-in treatment that helps nourish dry and damaged tresses.
Shop L’Oréal Professionnel Serié Expert Absolut Repair Molecular Leave-in Mask at LookFantastic, £30
Images: Getty; courtesy of brands
Sign up for our edit of what to buy, see, read and do, and receive a free mini-mag of the top 5 fashion trends you’re sure to see in 2024.
By signing up you agree to occasionally receive offers and promotions from Stylist. Newsletters may contain online ads and content funded by carefully selected partners. Don’t worry, we’ll never share or sell your data. You can opt-out at any time. For more information read Stylist’s Privacy Policy
Thank you!
You’re now subscribed to all our newsletters. You can manage your subscriptions at any time from an email or from a MyStylist account.