Peptides for Nail Health & Growth
Your nails are made almost entirely of keratin -- the same structural protein that forms your hair and the outer layer of your skin.
Your nails are made almost entirely of keratin -- the same structural protein that forms your hair and the outer layer of your skin. When your body produces keratin efficiently and the nail matrix (the tissue under your cuticle where new nail cells form) has a strong blood supply and enough raw materials, your nails grow fast and strong. When something goes wrong with any of those systems, nails become brittle, ridged, discolored, or slow-growing.
Peptides are starting to show up in this conversation. While the research is still younger than what exists for peptide skincare, a growing body of evidence suggests that specific peptides can support nail growth, reduce breakage, and strengthen the structural foundation nails depend on. Some work by boosting collagen in the nail bed. Others improve blood flow to the nail matrix or accelerate keratinocyte production.
This guide covers what the science actually shows -- and where the evidence has gaps.
Table of Contents
- How Nails Grow (And Why They Weaken)
- How Peptides Support Nail Health
- Best Peptides for Nail Health and Growth
- Peptide Comparison for Nail Health
- What Else Supports Nail Growth
- Frequently Asked Questions
- The Bottom Line
- References
How Nails Grow (And Why They Weaken)
Fingernails grow from the nail matrix at an average rate of about 3.5 mm per month. Toenails are slower -- roughly 1.6 mm per month [1]. New nail cells (onychocytes) form in the matrix, harden through keratinization, and push forward to create the visible nail plate.
Healthy nail growth depends on several things working together:
Collagen in the nail bed. The nail bed -- the tissue directly beneath the nail plate -- is rich in collagen. This collagen provides the structural scaffold that supports nail growth and keeps the nail plate attached. As collagen production declines with age (about 1-1.5% per year after 25), nails often become thinner and more prone to splitting [2].
Blood supply to the nail matrix. The matrix needs consistent blood flow to deliver oxygen, amino acids, and micronutrients. Poor circulation -- from aging, cold temperatures, or vascular conditions -- slows growth and weakens nail structure.
Keratinocyte activity. Nails are built by specialized keratinocytes in the matrix. These cells must divide rapidly, differentiate properly, and produce well-organized keratin fibers. Anything that disrupts keratinocyte function -- nutritional deficiencies, hormonal changes, systemic illness -- shows up in the nail.
Micronutrient availability. Biotin, zinc, iron, and silica all play roles in keratin production and nail integrity. Deficiencies in any of these often show up as brittle, ridged, or slow-growing nails before other symptoms appear [3].
Common reasons nails weaken include aging, frequent water exposure, harsh chemicals (nail polish remover, cleaning products), nutritional gaps, thyroid dysfunction, and iron deficiency anemia. If your nails remain weak despite good nutrition and supplementation, it's worth checking for underlying health conditions.
How Peptides Support Nail Health
Peptides can support nail health through three main pathways:
Collagen production. Oral collagen peptides provide the amino acids (especially glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline) that your body uses as building blocks for both collagen and keratin. Some evidence suggests these peptides also signal fibroblasts in the nail bed to produce more collagen directly.
Tissue repair and blood supply. Peptides like BPC-157 and TB-500 promote angiogenesis (new blood vessel formation) and accelerate tissue repair through growth factor pathways. Better blood supply to the nail matrix means more efficient delivery of nutrients and oxygen.
Keratinocyte stimulation. GHK-Cu directly increases keratinocyte proliferation and migration -- the same cells responsible for building your nail plate. Copper itself acts as a cofactor for enzymes involved in keratin cross-linking.
Best Peptides for Nail Health and Growth
Collagen Peptides (Oral Supplementation)
Collagen peptides have the strongest direct evidence for improving nail health. These are hydrolyzed collagen fragments (typically 2,000-5,000 Da molecular weight) designed for oral absorption.
The key study. Hexsel et al. conducted an open-label trial where 25 participants took 2.5 g of bioactive collagen peptides (VERISOL) daily for 24 weeks, followed by a 4-week washout period. The results were notable: a 12% increase in nail growth rate, a 42% decrease in the frequency of broken nails, and 64% of participants showing global clinical improvement in brittle nails. Even 4 weeks after stopping supplementation, 88% of participants still reported improved nails [4].
Newer confirmation. A 2024 double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial by Vleminckx et al. studied collagen peptide supplementation in 85 women aged 43-65. This more rigorous study design confirmed improvements in visible signs of nail health alongside skin aging markers [5].
How they work. When you consume collagen peptides, they're broken down into dipeptides and tripeptides (like Pro-Hyp and Hyp-Gly) that are absorbed through the intestinal wall and reach the bloodstream. Research suggests these peptide fragments accumulate in the skin and nail bed, where they may directly stimulate fibroblast activity and provide amino acid building blocks for keratin production [6].
Collagen peptides from porcine, bovine, and fish sources all appear to promote nail health, though most studies have used bovine-derived peptides. The typical effective dose in studies is 2.5-5 g daily.
GHK-Cu (Copper Peptide)
GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring tripeptide (glycyl-histidyl-lysine) bound to copper. It's best known for skin regeneration, but its mechanisms are directly relevant to nail health.
Why it matters for nails. GHK-Cu strongly stimulates keratinocyte proliferation -- the same cell type that builds your nail plate. In a 12-week clinical study, topical GHK-Cu cream increased dermal keratinocyte proliferation on biopsy analysis [7]. The peptide also boosts collagen and elastin synthesis in surrounding tissue, supporting the nail bed's structural foundation.
At the genetic level, GHK-Cu influences over 4,000 genes involved in tissue repair and regeneration [8]. It increases expression of epidermal stem cell markers (integrins and p63) in basal keratinocytes, indicating increased stemness and proliferative potential [8]. For nails, this translates to a more active nail matrix producing better-organized keratin.
Copper itself is an essential cofactor for lysyl oxidase, the enzyme responsible for collagen and elastin cross-linking. It also supports superoxide dismutase, providing antioxidant protection for the nail matrix.
The practical issue. GHK-Cu blood levels decline from about 200 ng/ml at age 20 to roughly 80 ng/ml by age 60 [8]. This decline correlates with reduced healing capacity throughout the body, including slower nail growth. While most GHK-Cu research focuses on topical skin application, the systemic effects on keratinocyte activity and collagen production have clear implications for nail health.
For more on copper peptides and their broader applications, see our full guide.
BPC-157
BPC-157 is a 15-amino-acid peptide originally isolated from human gastric juice. Its primary relevance to nail health comes from its effects on blood vessel formation and tissue repair.
The connection to nails. BPC-157 promotes angiogenesis through VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) signaling and the Akt-eNOS pathway, increasing nitric oxide production [9]. More blood vessels in and around the nail matrix means better oxygen and nutrient delivery -- a direct requirement for healthy nail growth.
In wound healing models, BPC-157 accelerated collagen organization and maturation, even in diabetic conditions where healing is normally impaired [10]. It also increased fibroblast migration in a dose-dependent manner and improved cell survival under oxidative stress [11].
Important context. No published clinical trial has tested BPC-157 specifically for nail growth. The rationale is inferred from its well-documented effects on tissue repair, collagen synthesis, and angiogenesis in animal models. This peptide remains a research compound, not an FDA-approved treatment. For a complete overview of the evidence, see our BPC-157 scientific guide.
TB-500 (Thymosin Beta-4)
TB-500 is a synthetic fragment of thymosin beta-4, a protein involved in cell migration and tissue repair throughout the body.
How it relates to nails. TB-500's primary mechanism -- promoting cell migration through actin regulation -- is directly relevant to nail matrix function. The nail matrix depends on rapid keratinocyte migration and differentiation, and thymosin beta-4 has been shown to stimulate keratinocyte migration 2-3 fold in Boyden chamber assays [12].
In wound healing studies, TB-500 increased collagen deposition, boosted angiogenesis, and promoted re-epithelialization [12]. These are the same processes that support a healthy, fast-growing nail. The peptide also has anti-inflammatory properties that could benefit nail conditions associated with chronic inflammation.
Limitations. Like BPC-157, TB-500 has not been tested in nail-specific clinical trials. Its benefits for nail health are extrapolated from tissue repair research. TB-500 is classified as a Category 2 bulk drug substance by the FDA and is not approved for therapeutic use. See our full TB-500 research profile for more detail.
Keratin Peptides
Keratin is the dominant structural protein in nails, but intact keratin has almost zero bioavailability when taken orally -- its molecular structure resists mammalian digestive enzymes [13]. Hydrolyzed keratin peptides solve this problem by breaking the protein into free amino acids and small peptides (under 800 Da) that can actually be absorbed.
The amino acid profile of keratin peptides differs from collagen peptides. Keratin is particularly rich in cysteine (which forms the disulfide bonds that give nails their hardness), while collagen provides more glycine and proline. In theory, keratin peptides supply the specific amino acids your body needs to build nail keratin.
A 2025 randomized, double-blind study on hydrolyzed keratin (Kera-Diet) showed improvements in skin aging markers, suggesting systemic benefits from oral keratin supplementation [14]. However, the evidence base for keratin peptides and nails specifically remains preliminary -- rated about 2 out of 5 for scientific support by independent reviewers [3].
Some practitioners recommend combining collagen peptides with keratin peptides for comprehensive nail support: collagen for the nail bed foundation, keratin for the nail plate itself.
Peptide Comparison for Nail Health
| Peptide | Route | Primary Mechanism | Evidence for Nails | Research Quality |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Collagen peptides | Oral | Amino acid supply + fibroblast stimulation | Direct (clinical trials) | Moderate (open-label + 1 RCT) |
| GHK-Cu | Topical/systemic | Keratinocyte proliferation + collagen synthesis | Indirect (skin studies) | Moderate (clinical + preclinical) |
| BPC-157 | Systemic | Angiogenesis + collagen organization | Indirect (animal models) | Low (preclinical only) |
| TB-500 | Systemic | Cell migration + tissue repair | Indirect (animal models) | Low (preclinical only) |
| Keratin peptides | Oral | Direct keratin amino acid supply | Limited (preliminary studies) | Low (emerging) |
What Else Supports Nail Growth
Peptides don't work in isolation. Several other factors directly affect nail health:
Biotin (Vitamin B7). A 1993 study showed a 25% increase in nail thickness in people with brittle nails after 6 months of biotin supplementation [15]. Biotin supports keratin production and cellular growth. The typical supplement dose is 2,500-5,000 mcg daily, though the evidence is stronger for people with actual biotin deficiency than for those with normal levels.
Zinc. Essential for protein synthesis and cell division -- both required for nail growth. Zinc deficiency often produces white spots (leukonychia) and brittle nails. Food sources include oysters, beef, pumpkin seeds, and lentils.
Iron. Iron deficiency is one of the most common nutritional causes of brittle, spoon-shaped nails (koilonychia). If your nails are persistently weak, checking ferritin levels is a reasonable first step.
Silica. Choline-stabilized orthosilicic acid has shown some evidence for improving nail brittleness, potentially by supporting collagen cross-linking [3].
Adequate protein. Nails are protein structures. If your overall protein intake is low, no supplement will fully compensate. Aim for 0.8-1 g of protein per kilogram of body weight daily as a baseline.
For a broader look at peptides that support related structures, see our guides on best peptides for hair growth and best peptides for anti-aging and longevity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do collagen peptides actually reach the nail bed? Research using radiolabeled collagen peptides shows that oral collagen fragments do accumulate in the skin and nail bed after absorption [6]. The specific dipeptides Pro-Hyp and Hyp-Gly have been detected in the bloodstream after oral collagen supplementation, and they appear to stimulate fibroblast activity in target tissues.
How long do peptides take to improve nails? Fingernails take 3-6 months to grow from matrix to tip, so any nail supplement needs time to show results. The Hexsel study showed measurable changes in nail growth rate at 24 weeks, with continued improvement even after the 4-week washout [4]. Expect 3-4 months minimum before judging whether a peptide is working.
Can I apply GHK-Cu topically to my nails? You can, though research on topical nail application is limited. GHK-Cu serums applied to the cuticle area could theoretically support the nail matrix, but the nail plate itself is dead keratinized tissue that won't absorb peptides the way skin does. Focus application on the cuticle and surrounding skin.
Is biotin or collagen peptides better for nails? They work through different mechanisms and aren't mutually exclusive. Biotin supports keratin production (the nail plate itself), while collagen peptides support the nail bed and growth infrastructure. Combining both is a common approach, and the evidence supports each independently for different aspects of nail health.
Are there any risks to peptide supplementation for nails? Oral collagen peptides have an excellent safety profile in published studies, with no significant adverse effects reported at typical doses (2.5-10 g daily) [4, 5]. BPC-157 and TB-500 are research compounds without FDA approval for any therapeutic use. Biotin supplementation at high doses can interfere with certain lab tests (troponin, thyroid panels), so inform your doctor if you're taking it.
My nails have ridges and white spots. Will peptides help? Vertical ridges are usually a normal sign of aging and reflect changes in the nail matrix. Peptides that support keratinocyte function (GHK-Cu, collagen peptides) may help over time. White spots (leukonychia) are more commonly caused by minor trauma or zinc deficiency -- address those causes first before looking to peptides.
The Bottom Line
The strongest evidence for peptide-based nail support comes from oral collagen peptides. A 12% increase in growth rate and 42% reduction in breakage in the Hexsel trial is a meaningful result, even with the limitations of an open-label design [4]. The 2024 Vleminckx RCT adds more confidence to these findings.
Beyond collagen, GHK-Cu offers the most relevant mechanism for nail health through its direct effects on keratinocyte proliferation and collagen synthesis. BPC-157 and TB-500 have compelling tissue repair profiles but lack nail-specific clinical data.
A practical starting point: 2.5-5 g of hydrolyzed collagen peptides daily, paired with adequate biotin, zinc, and overall protein intake. Give it 3-6 months. If you're interested in GHK-Cu, topical application around the cuticle is a reasonable addition. And if weak nails persist despite supplementation, check with your doctor for underlying causes -- thyroid function, iron levels, and vitamin D are common culprits that peptides can't fix.
References
- Yaemsiri, S. et al. "Growth rate of human fingernails and toenails in healthy American young adults." Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 24(4), 420-423, 2010.
- Varani, J. et al. "Decreased Collagen Production in Chronologically Aged Skin." American Journal of Pathology, 168(6), 1861-1868, 2006. PMC1606623.
- Lipner, S.R. & Scher, R.K. "Nail Supplements: When, How, and Why?" Skin Appendage Disorders, 11(2), 176-183, 2025. PMID: 40176998.
- Hexsel, D. et al. "Oral supplementation with specific bioactive collagen peptides improves nail growth and reduces symptoms of brittle nails." Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 16(4), 520-526, 2017. PMID: 28786550.
- Vleminckx, H. et al. "Influence of collagen peptide supplementation on visible signs of skin and nail health and aging in an East Asian population." Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 23(11), 3645-3653, 2024. PMID: 39143887.
- Ohara, H. et al. "Collagen-derived dipeptide, proline-hydroxyproline, stimulates cell proliferation and hyaluronic acid synthesis in cultured human dermal fibroblasts." Journal of Dermatology, 37(4), 330-338, 2010.
- Finkley, M.B. et al. "Effect of copper peptide on skin." Cosmetic Dermatology clinical study, 2005.
- Pickart, L. et al. "GHK Peptide as a Natural Modulator of Multiple Cellular Pathways in Skin Regeneration." BioMed Research International, 2015. PMC4508379.
- Seiwerth, S. et al. "Stable Gastric Pentadecapeptide BPC 157 and Wound Healing." Frontiers in Pharmacology, 12, 2021. PMC8275860.
- Seiwerth, S. et al. "BPC 157's effect on healing." Journal of Physiology, 1997. PMID: 9403790.
- Chang, C.H. et al. "The promoting effect of pentadecapeptide BPC 157 on tendon healing involves tendon outgrowth, cell survival, and cell migration." Journal of Applied Physiology, 110(3), 774-780, 2011.
- Malinda, K.M. et al. "Thymosin beta4 accelerates wound healing." Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 113(3), 364-368, 1999. PMID: 10469335.
- Sinkiewicz, I. et al. "Solubilized keratin as a novel dietary supplement." International Journal of Food Science & Technology, 2019.
- Munavalli, G.S. et al. "The Effects of an Oral Supplementation of a Natural Keratin Hydrolysate on Skin Aging: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Study in Healthy Women." Cosmetics, 2025. PMC11743286.
- Columbo, V.E. & Gerber, F. "Treatment of brittle fingernails and onychoschizia with biotin." Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 23(6), 1127-1132, 1990.