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Best Peptides for Hair Growth & Restoration

Hair loss affects roughly 80% of men and 50% of women by age 70, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Traditional treatments like minoxidil and finasteride work for many people, but they come with limitations — hormonal side effects, inconsistent results, and the need for indefinite use.

Hair loss affects roughly 80% of men and 50% of women by age 70, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Traditional treatments like minoxidil and finasteride work for many people, but they come with limitations — hormonal side effects, inconsistent results, and the need for indefinite use. That gap has driven growing interest in peptides as a newer, more targeted approach to hair restoration.

Peptides are short chains of amino acids that act as signaling molecules in the body. Some stimulate blood vessel formation around follicles. Others activate dormant stem cells or block the enzymes that shrink hair follicles in the first place. The research is still evolving, but several peptides now have meaningful scientific backing for hair-related applications.

This guide breaks down the peptides with the strongest evidence for hair growth, explains how they work at the molecular level, and covers what you should know before trying them.

Table of Contents

How Hair Growth Works (And Why It Fails)

Your hair follicles cycle through three phases: anagen (active growth, lasting 2–7 years), catagen (regression, about 2 weeks), and telogen (rest, roughly 3 months). At any given time, about 85–90% of your hair is in the anagen phase.

Hair loss happens when this cycle breaks down. In androgenetic alopecia — the most common form of hair loss in both men and women — the enzyme 5-alpha reductase converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT binds to receptors in hair follicles, triggering a process called follicular miniaturization. The follicles gradually shrink, produce thinner hairs, and eventually stop producing visible hair altogether.

But DHT is not the only culprit. Chronic scalp inflammation, reduced blood flow to follicles, declining growth factor levels, and the loss of hair follicle stem cell activity all contribute to thinning and shedding. This is where peptides come in — they can target multiple mechanisms simultaneously.

How Peptides Target Hair Loss

Peptides affect hair growth through several distinct pathways:

Growth factor stimulation. Peptides like GHK-Cu increase production of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), both of which promote blood vessel formation and nutrient delivery around follicles [1].

Stem cell activation. Hair follicle stem cells in the bulge region must migrate to the base of the follicle and differentiate to initiate a new growth cycle. Certain peptides, particularly Thymosin Beta-4, directly activate this migration [2].

Anti-inflammatory action. Chronic low-grade inflammation around follicles — sometimes called "microinflammation" — accelerates miniaturization. Peptides with anti-inflammatory properties, such as BPC-157, reduce these inflammatory signals.

5-alpha reductase inhibition. Copper ions delivered by GHK-Cu have been shown to inhibit type 1 5-alpha reductase by up to 90% in vitro, potentially blocking the DHT production that drives androgenetic alopecia [3].

Wnt/β-catenin pathway activation. This signaling pathway is essential for hair follicle development and cycling. Several peptides upregulate Wnt/β-catenin activity, pushing resting follicles back into the growth phase [4].

The Top Peptides for Hair Growth

GHK-Cu (Copper Peptide)

GHK-Cu (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine copper) is the most extensively researched peptide for hair growth. It occurs naturally in human plasma, saliva, and urine, though its concentration drops significantly with age — from about 200 ng/mL at age 20 to 80 ng/mL by age 60.

What the research shows:

A 2007 study by Pyo and Yoo found that the tripeptide-copper complex stimulated the proliferation of dermal papilla cells — the signaling cells at the base of each follicle that control hair cycling. The peptide increased VEGF production while decreasing transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), a protein associated with follicle regression. It also reduced apoptosis (programmed cell death) in dermal papilla cells, as measured by an elevated Bcl-2/Bax ratio [1].

A related copper peptide, AHK-Cu, stimulated human hair follicle elongation ex vivo at concentrations as low as 10⁻¹² M [5]. Animal studies using advanced delivery systems showed that GHK-Cu-loaded microemulsions stimulated follicle entry into the growth phase in as few as 6 days, compared to 9 days for minoxidil [6].

On the DHT front, Sugimoto et al. (1995) demonstrated that copper (II) ions at 0.12 μg/mL achieved 50% inhibition of type 1 5-alpha reductase, with maximum inhibition reaching 90% [3]. Gene profiling studies have also revealed that GHK-Cu affects the expression of numerous genes related to tissue remodeling, antioxidant defense, and anti-inflammatory responses [7].

Limitations: Topical delivery remains a challenge. GHK-Cu's charge and size can limit penetration through the scalp. Newer formulations using nanoliposomes and ionic liquid microemulsions have improved delivery by roughly threefold, but these are not yet widely available in consumer products [6].

Thymosin Beta-4 / TB-500

Thymosin Beta-4 is a 43-amino acid polypeptide that plays a central role in cell migration, wound healing, and angiogenesis. TB-500 is its shorter synthetic fragment that retains the active domain.

What the research shows:

The hair growth connection was discovered accidentally. In 2004, researcher Deborah Philp and colleagues at the National Institutes of Health noticed that hair grew faster around wound edges in mice treated with Thymosin Beta-4. Follow-up experiments confirmed that the peptide stimulated rapid hair growth on the dorsal skin of athymic mice and depilated rats [2].

The mechanism is specific: Thymosin Beta-4 activates hair follicle stem cells in the bulge region, promoting their migration to the base of the follicle. Once there, these cells differentiate into the specialized keratinocytes that form the hair shaft. The peptide also increases matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) production, which remodels the extracellular matrix to allow stem cell migration [8].

A 2010 study by Cha et al. confirmed that mice overexpressing Thymosin Beta-4 had accelerated hair growth. A 2015 study published in PLOS ONE further demonstrated that exogenous Tβ4 induces mouse hair growth, identifying Wnt/β-catenin, PI3K/AKT, and MMP-2 as the three principal signaling pathways involved [9].

A 2021 review in the Journal of Dermatological Science detailed how Tβ4 may regulate VEGF and MMP-2 levels via the Wnt/β-catenin/Lef-1 signaling pathway, influencing blood vessel growth around follicles and activating cell migration [10].

Limitations: The effects appear to require continued treatment. In studies, newly grown hair persisted for about 30 days and follicle counts returned to baseline within two weeks of stopping treatment. Nearly all evidence comes from animal models. Human clinical trials are still needed.

BPC-157

BPC-157 (Body Protective Compound-157) is a synthetic pentadecapeptide derived from a protein found in human gastric juice. It is best known for its tissue-healing and anti-inflammatory properties, and these same mechanisms make it relevant to hair restoration.

What the research shows:

BPC-157's case for hair growth is indirect but logical. The peptide is a potent stimulator of angiogenesis — the formation of new blood vessels. In animal studies, BPC-157 accelerated wound healing and increased blood vessel density in treated tissues. For hair follicles, which depend on robust blood supply for nutrient delivery during the anagen phase, this is significant.

Animal research has shown that BPC-157 injected into scalp tissue promoted hair follicle cell proliferation and increased blood vessel formation. The peptide also reduces oxidative damage and inflammation in treated tissues, both of which contribute to follicular miniaturization [11].

BPC-157 is increasingly used in combination with GHK-Cu in topical formulations. The rationale: GHK-Cu directly stimulates follicle-level growth factors, while BPC-157 addresses the broader tissue environment — reducing inflammation, improving circulation, and promoting repair of micro-damage to the scalp.

Limitations: Direct evidence for BPC-157's effects on hair growth specifically is limited. Most studies focus on wound healing and tissue repair in other contexts. The hair growth applications are extrapolated from these mechanisms. Check our full BPC-157 profile for detailed research coverage.

CJC-1295 and Ipamorelin

CJC-1295 is a growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) analog, and Ipamorelin is a selective growth hormone-releasing peptide (GHRP). Together, they increase the body's natural growth hormone (GH) output, which in turn raises insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) levels — and IGF-1 is directly involved in hair follicle cycling.

What the research shows:

After a single injection of CJC-1295, plasma GH concentrations increased 2- to 10-fold for 6 or more days, and IGF-1 levels rose 1.5- to 3-fold for 9–11 days. After multiple doses, IGF-1 levels stayed above baseline for up to 28 days [12].

The hair growth connection runs through IGF-1. This growth factor is known to prolong the anagen phase of the hair cycle and promote follicular matrix cell proliferation. When GH levels fall — as they naturally do with aging — IGF-1 drops too, and hair follicle activity slows.

Using CJC-1295 and Ipamorelin together produces a 3- to 5-fold increase in growth hormone release compared to either compound alone. Beyond IGF-1, the elevated GH also stimulates collagen production, which supports the dermal environment around follicles [12].

Limitations: These peptides work systemically, not directly on follicles. The hair growth benefit is a secondary effect of improved hormonal status. Large-scale clinical trials specifically examining hair outcomes with CJC-1295/Ipamorelin do not yet exist. Both peptides are administered by injection, and neither is FDA-approved for hair loss. For more detail, see our guides on CJC-1295 and Ipamorelin.

Biotinoyl Tripeptide-1

Biotinoyl Tripeptide-1 is a biotin-modified peptide designed specifically for topical hair care. It combines biotin (vitamin B7) with a tripeptide sequence that targets dermal papilla cells.

What the research shows:

Clinical studies reported that Biotinoyl Tripeptide-1 reduced hair loss by 58% and increased hair density by 35% over a treatment period. The peptide activates dermal papilla cells and strengthens the anchoring of hair within the follicle by reinforcing the protein structures around the root [13].

This is one of the few hair peptides with data from human subjects rather than just animal models, though the studies were conducted by ingredient suppliers and some have limited independent replication.

Limitations: The research is largely industry-funded, which introduces potential bias. Independent peer-reviewed studies are fewer in number. However, the peptide has a good safety profile for topical use and appears in many commercial hair growth serums, often paired with Acetyl Tetrapeptide-3.

Acetyl Tetrapeptide-3

Acetyl Tetrapeptide-3 strengthens hair anchoring by targeting the extracellular matrix proteins that hold follicles in place.

What the research shows:

Studies reported that Acetyl Tetrapeptide-3 increased hair growth activity by 67%. In a study of 32 people with androgenetic alopecia, a combination of red clover extract and Acetyl Tetrapeptide-3 (marketed as Capixyl) was compared with 3% minoxidil over 4 months. The peptide combination performed comparably to minoxidil in reducing hair loss and improving density [14].

The peptide works in part by inhibiting inflammation-related enzymes and reducing the effects of DHT on the extracellular matrix surrounding follicles.

Limitations: Most studies tested this peptide in combination with other ingredients (particularly red clover isoflavones), making it difficult to isolate the peptide's independent contribution. Still, the human data is more robust than what exists for most other hair peptides.

Peptide Quick Reference Table

PeptidePrimary MechanismEvidence LevelDelivery MethodBest For
GHK-CuVEGF/HGF stimulation, 5-AR inhibition, anti-apoptoticStrong (in vitro + animal)Topical, injectionThinning hair, follicle health
Thymosin Beta-4 / TB-500Stem cell activation and migrationModerate (animal models)InjectionDormant follicle reactivation
BPC-157Angiogenesis, anti-inflammatoryModerate (animal, indirect)Topical, injectionScalp inflammation, poor circulation
CJC-1295 + IpamorelinGH/IGF-1 elevationModerate (systemic, indirect)InjectionAge-related thinning
Biotinoyl Tripeptide-1Dermal papilla activationModerate (human, industry)TopicalGeneral hair thinning
Acetyl Tetrapeptide-3ECM strengthening, anti-inflammatoryModerate (human, combination)TopicalAndrogenetic alopecia

The Role of Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling

Several of the peptides above work through the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, which deserves its own explanation because of how central it is to hair biology.

The Wnt/β-catenin pathway controls whether hair follicle stem cells stay dormant or activate to begin a new growth cycle. When Wnt signaling is active, β-catenin accumulates in cells and moves to the nucleus, where it turns on genes involved in follicle growth and stem cell proliferation. If you delete β-catenin in skin stem cells, hair is completely lost after the first hair cycle — the stem cells default to making epidermis instead of hair [4].

In people with androgenetic alopecia, Wnt signaling is suppressed. A protein called CXXC5 acts as a negative feedback regulator of the pathway, and CXXC5 levels are specifically elevated in the miniaturized follicles of balding scalps [4].

This is why researchers have developed peptides and small molecules that activate Wnt/β-catenin. Thymosin Beta-4 works partly through this pathway. GHK-Cu's effects on gene expression include Wnt-related targets. And newer experimental compounds like PTD-DBM (a peptide that blocks the CXXC5-Dishevelled interaction) have shown direct hair growth promotion in animal models by freeing up Wnt signaling [4].

The catch: β-catenin signaling needs to be balanced. Overactivation can accelerate stem cell differentiation so much that the follicle's progenitor pool is depleted, leading to premature graying and thinning over time. The goal is restoration of normal signaling, not unlimited activation.

A Note on GLP-1 Agonists and Hair Loss

If you are taking semaglutide (Ozempic/Wegovy) or a similar GLP-1 receptor agonist for weight loss, you should know that hair shedding is a reported side effect. In Wegovy clinical trials, 3.3% of participants reported hair loss, with rates rising to 5.3% among those who lost 20% or more of their body weight [15].

The primary mechanism is telogen effluvium — a condition where rapid weight loss pushes many follicles into the resting phase simultaneously, causing noticeable shedding 3–6 months after the weight loss begins. A 2025 University of British Columbia study found that women on semaglutide had roughly double the risk of hair loss compared to those on another weight-loss medication (bupropion-naltrexone) [16].

The good news: telogen effluvium is usually temporary. Hair growth typically resumes within 6–12 months as the body adjusts. Ensuring adequate protein, iron, zinc, and biotin intake during rapid weight loss can help reduce the severity. Some clinicians are now combining GLP-1 therapy with topical peptide treatments like GHK-Cu to support follicle health during the weight loss phase.

Delivery Methods: How Peptides Reach Your Follicles

Getting peptides to the follicle level is one of the biggest practical challenges. Here are the main delivery approaches:

Topical serums and foams. The simplest option. GHK-Cu, Biotinoyl Tripeptide-1, and Acetyl Tetrapeptide-3 are commonly available in topical hair products. The Ordinary's Multi-Peptide Serum for Hair Density is one widely available example. The limitation is penetration depth — many peptides are charged molecules that do not easily cross the skin barrier.

Microneedling with peptides. A dermaroller or microneedling device creates tiny channels in the scalp, allowing peptides to penetrate directly to the follicular level. Clinical protocols often combine microneedling with GHK-Cu and BPC-157 serums. This approach significantly improves peptide delivery compared to surface application alone.

Nanoliposome and microemulsion formulations. Researchers have developed nanoliposomes that encapsulate multiple peptides (GHK-Cu, Acetyl Tetrapeptide-3, and Myristoyl Pentapeptide-4) for improved transdermal delivery. In animal studies, these formulations outperformed free peptides for both cell proliferation and in vivo hair growth [6].

Subcutaneous injection. Peptides like TB-500, BPC-157, and CJC-1295/Ipamorelin are typically administered by injection. For hair growth specifically, some practitioners inject BPC-157 directly into the scalp alongside platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatments.

Combining Peptides for Hair Growth

Peptides that work through different mechanisms can be combined for broader coverage. Some common research-backed combinations:

GHK-Cu + BPC-157 (topical). GHK-Cu handles growth factor stimulation and 5-AR inhibition while BPC-157 addresses inflammation and blood vessel formation. This combination is available in compounded topical foams.

Thymosin Beta-4 + GHK-Cu. TB-500 activates dormant stem cells while GHK-Cu supports the follicular environment those stem cells enter. This pairing targets different stages of the hair growth initiation process.

CJC-1295/Ipamorelin + topical peptides. Systemic GH/IGF-1 elevation from injectable growth hormone secretagogues combined with direct follicular support from topical GHK-Cu or Biotinoyl Tripeptide-1. This approach addresses both the hormonal and local environments.

For a deeper look at combining peptides safely, see our Peptide Stacking Guide.

What Peptides Cannot Do

Peptides are not miracle cures, and setting realistic expectations matters.

They will not regrow hair from completely dead follicles. If a follicle has been fully scarred over — as in long-standing cicatricial alopecia — no peptide will bring it back. Peptides work on follicles that are miniaturized, dormant, or weakened, not destroyed.

They are slower than pharmaceutical treatments. Most people using topical peptides report noticing changes after 2–3 months, with meaningful results at 4–6 months. This is comparable to minoxidil's timeline but longer than what some expect.

The evidence is still developing. GHK-Cu and Thymosin Beta-4 have the strongest preclinical data, but large-scale randomized controlled trials in humans are still lacking for most hair peptides. Much of the existing research comes from animal models or small human studies.

Regulatory status varies. Many of these peptides are not FDA-approved for hair loss. GHK-Cu is used in cosmetic products. TB-500 and BPC-157 are classified as research peptides in the United States. CJC-1295 and Ipamorelin are used off-label when prescribed by clinicians. Always work with a qualified healthcare provider.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which peptide has the most evidence for hair growth? GHK-Cu (copper peptide) has the most published research, including in vitro, ex vivo, and animal studies demonstrating growth factor stimulation, anti-apoptotic effects on dermal papilla cells, and 5-alpha reductase inhibition. Thymosin Beta-4 has the strongest evidence for stem cell activation specifically.

Are topical peptides effective, or do I need injections? Topical peptides can work, but penetration is a limiting factor. Products formulated with advanced delivery systems (nanoliposomes, liposomal encapsulation) perform better than basic serums. Microneedling before application also improves results. Injectable peptides like TB-500 bypass the penetration issue entirely.

Can peptides replace finasteride or minoxidil? Not based on current evidence. Finasteride and minoxidil have decades of clinical trial data in humans. Peptides are more commonly used as complementary treatments — either alongside conventional therapy or for people who cannot tolerate the side effects of pharmaceuticals.

How long until I see results from hair peptides? Most users report noticing reduced shedding within 4–8 weeks and visible new growth at 3–6 months. Topical peptides like GHK-Cu applied consistently show measurable changes in hair density studies within 8–12 weeks [1].

Are there side effects? Topical peptides like GHK-Cu, Biotinoyl Tripeptide-1, and Acetyl Tetrapeptide-3 have excellent safety profiles with minimal reported side effects — occasional scalp tingling or mild irritation. Injectable peptides (TB-500, BPC-157, CJC-1295/Ipamorelin) carry the typical risks of injection: site irritation, redness, and in rare cases, water retention or headache.

Can women use these peptides? Yes. Unlike finasteride, which is contraindicated in women of childbearing age, most hair growth peptides are not hormonal in their primary mechanism. GHK-Cu, Biotinoyl Tripeptide-1, and Acetyl Tetrapeptide-3 are all used by women. For women experiencing hair thinning, see also our guide to Best Peptides for Women Over 40.

The Bottom Line

Peptides for hair growth target the biological machinery of the follicle: growth factors, stem cells, blood supply, inflammation, and hormonal signaling. The strongest evidence currently supports GHK-Cu for direct follicle stimulation and Thymosin Beta-4 for stem cell activation, though both still need large human trials. Topical peptides like Biotinoyl Tripeptide-1 and Acetyl Tetrapeptide-3 offer accessible, low-risk options with some human data behind them.

The field is moving fast. Advanced delivery systems are solving the penetration problem, combination approaches are targeting multiple hair loss mechanisms at once, and Wnt/β-catenin pathway research is opening new doors for follicle regeneration. Peptides probably will not replace proven hair loss treatments anytime soon, but they are becoming a meaningful part of the toolkit — especially for people looking for options beyond finasteride and minoxidil.

If you are considering peptide therapy for hair loss, start with a dermatologist or healthcare provider who understands both conventional and peptide-based approaches. And for related reading, check out our guides on best peptides for skin anti-aging and best peptides for wound healing, which cover peptides with overlapping mechanisms.

References

  1. Pyo HK, Yoo HG, et al. "The effect of tripeptide-copper complex on human hair growth in vitro." Archives of Pharmacal Research. 2007;30(7):834-839. PubMed

  2. Philp D, Nguyen M, et al. "Thymosin beta4 increases hair growth by activation of hair follicle stem cells." FASEB Journal. 2004;18(2):385-387. PubMed

  3. Sugimoto Y, Lopez-Solache I, et al. "Inhibition of human type 1 steroid 5 alpha-reductase by copper ions." Biochemical Pharmacology. 1995;49(10):1459-1463.

  4. Lim X, Nusse R. "Targeting Wnt/β-Catenin pathway for developing therapies for hair loss." International Journal of Molecular Sciences. 2020;21(14):4915. PMC

  5. Pickart L, Vasquez-Soltero JM, Margolina A. "Regenerative and protective actions of the GHK-Cu peptide in the light of the new gene data." International Journal of Molecular Sciences. 2018;19(7):1987. PMC

  6. Chen Y, Fan J, et al. "Co-delivery of bioactive peptides by nanoliposomes for promotion of hair growth." Colloids and Surfaces B: Biointerfaces. 2022;216:112582. ScienceDirect

  7. Pickart L, Vasquez-Soltero JM, Margolina A. "The human tri-peptide GHK and tissue remodeling." Journal of Biomaterials Science, Polymer Edition. 2008;19(8):969-988. PubMed

  8. Philp D, St-Surin S, et al. "Thymosin beta 4 induces hair growth via stem cell migration and differentiation." Journal of Cell Science. 2007;120(Pt 15):2644-2654. PubMed

  9. Gao X, Liang H, et al. "Thymosin Beta-4 induces mouse hair growth." PLOS ONE. 2015;10(6):e0130040. PLOS ONE

  10. Liu J, Lv S, et al. "Multiple potential roles of thymosin β4 in the growth and development of hair follicles." Life Sciences. 2021;275:119415. PubMed

  11. Sikiric P, et al. "BPC 157 and wound healing." Current Pharmaceutical Design. 2018.

  12. Teichman SL, et al. "Prolonged stimulation of growth hormone and insulin-like growth factor I secretion by CJC-1295, a long-acting analog of GH-releasing hormone, in healthy adults." Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism. 2006;91(3):799-805. PubMed

  13. Biotinoyl Tripeptide-1 clinical data. Supplier research, DSM/Firmenich.

  14. Capixyl (Acetyl Tetrapeptide-3 + red clover) clinical trial data. Lucas Meyer Cosmetics.

  15. FDA Prescribing Information for Wegovy (semaglutide). FDA.gov

  16. University of British Columbia. "Risk of hair loss with semaglutide for weight loss." medRxiv. 2025. medRxiv