Peptides, a common ingredient in anti-aging skin care, are emerging as a helpful tool for thinning hair. According to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Dendy Engelman of Shafer Clinic Fifth Avenue in New York City, peptides can support the scalp and reduce shedding. The Ordinary's multi-peptide serum for hair density, priced under $25, has garnered praise from reviewers who report visible regrowth and reduced shedding.
How Peptides Work for Hair Health
Peptides are short chains of amino acids that act as signaling molecules in the body. “When it comes to hair health, certain peptides can help support the hair growth cycle by promoting a healthier scalp environment, improving follicle function, and potentially extending the anagen — or growth — phase of the hair cycle,” Engelman explained. Some peptides also increase blood flow to the scalp and reduce inflammation, key factors for maintaining strong hair.
Trichologist Sophia Emmanuel previously told HuffPost that peptides can help increase density by supporting hair follicles and scalp circulation. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Dina Strachan added that different peptides offer various benefits, including increased blood flow and extension of the growth phase.
The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Serum: Key Features
The serum uses multiple peptide technologies to support the scalp and make hair appear thicker, fuller, and denser. It contains nourishing plant extracts to maintain a healthy scalp. The formula is fragrance-free and sulfate-free, which dermatologists recommend to avoid stripping natural oils that can lead to dryness and inflammation. It is a lightweight, water-based leave-in serum applied with a dropper. Users apply a few drops to a clean, dry scalp once daily, preferably at bedtime.
One reviewer noted: “I have almost no shedding in the shower now! I even bleached and colored my hair and had very little fallout. I am noticing hair growing back along my hairline and in the balding spots.” Another said: “I have been using it every night on my hairline for months now and [I] have a TON of new baby hairs!!! It’s not greasy at all, no smell, dries quickly, doesn’t irritate my sensitive skin and scalp, and of course WORKS!!!!”
Real User Experiences and Results
Reviewers report visible results within about a month of consistent use. One user who lost hair after weight loss shared: “I have been using it for two months now and yesterday someone actually told me that I have thick hair! This product contains effective ingredients, it is not sticky or oily and most importantly it works really well at helping to thicken and regrow lost hair.” Another user who experienced hair loss after stopping birth control said: “Started using this product and I couldn’t believe the growth I was seeing around my hair line. My hair stylist even made a remark how she noticed all the new growth.”
A long-term user of over two years reported: “I use it every wash day and put it before bed. It’s non-greasy and very light weight serum. I have so much baby hair now and it takes longer to get my hair done now that I have more hair. It’s a miracle worker.” A chemotherapy patient added: “I think it has TRANSFORMED the health of my scalp. I use this after every shower and I never get dry flakes, dandruff, or oily scalp anymore.”
Expert Advice: Peptides as Complementary Treatment
Engelman cautioned that while peptide-infused topicals can be helpful, they are generally supportive rather than transformative on their own. “In-office treatments like platelet-rich plasma (PRP), which uses your body’s own growth factors to stimulate the follicles, tend to deliver more significant results for patients experiencing more advanced hair loss,” she said. “Ideally, I view peptides as a complementary approach: they can help optimize scalp health and enhance results when used alongside clinically proven treatments like PRP.”
Additional Hair Loss Products Recommended by Dermatologists
For those seeking other options, dermatologists recommend minoxidil (Rogaine) as a well-known treatment that helps hair remain in the growing phase. A 5% concentration foam is available for both men and women. Ketoconazole shampoo (Nizoral) is a gold-standard dandruff treatment with antifungal properties that may reduce inflammation and hormonal influences contributing to hair loss. Rosemary oil, such as Mielle's rosemary mint scalp and hair strengthening oil, is another option that may reduce inflammation and stimulate hair growth.
