Posted by Chloe Morgan
on October 24, 2024
Hair health and growth are influenced by many factors, but at the core is keratin—a structural protein made up of amino acids. Keratin is responsible for the strength, structure, and flexibility of hair, largely due to key amino acids like L-Cysteine, L-Proline, L-Serine, and L-Threonine. Understanding their roles in keratin formation provides insight into how they may support healthy, resilient hair.
What Is Keratin?
Keratin is a protective protein found in hair, nails, and skin. It acts as the building block of hair, providing structure and strength. Amino acids are the fundamental components of keratin, and their proper balance is important for the overall health and integrity of hair.
Key Amino Acids for Hair
1. L-Cysteine
L-Cysteine helps form disulfide bonds that give keratin its strength and resistance to damage. These bonds support hair’s elasticity and help reduce breakage. L-Cysteine also has antioxidant properties, which may help protect hair and scalp from environmental stress. It plays an important role in keratin production and can be obtained through dietary sources or supplements.
2. L-Proline
L-Proline is involved in the synthesis of keratin and collagen. It stabilizes the triple-helix structure of keratin, supporting hair’s flexibility and strength. Rich in foods like dairy, meat, and eggs, L-Proline contributes to maintaining the structural integrity of hair.
3. L-Serine
L-Serine supports keratin’s ability to retain moisture, promoting hydrated, flexible hair that is less prone to breakage. It contributes to maintaining hair’s softness and overall resilience. L-Serine is naturally found in soy products, nuts, and eggs.
4. L-Threonine
L-Threonine contributes to keratin’s moisture retention and also supports collagen production. This amino acid helps maintain scalp health, which is important for hair growth. It can be obtained from foods such as meat, dairy, and lentils.
Amino Acids and Hair Growth
Together, these amino acids help strengthen the structural integrity of keratin, improve moisture balance, and provide protection against environmental stress. Their combined action supports strong, flexible hair that is less prone to breakage and better able to grow healthily.
Incorporating amino acid-rich foods into your diet—such as eggs, meat, and soy products—may help promote healthy hair from within. For those seeking convenient nutritional support, BIGVITA’s Hair+ is formulated with amino acids and other essential nutrients to complement a balanced diet and support resilient, healthy-looking hair.
References
1. Fraser, R. D., & Parry, D. A. (2011). The role of cysteine in the structure and stability of keratin proteins. Journal of Structural Biology.
2. Trüeb, R. M. (2009). The impact of oxidative stress on hair. International Journal of Trichology.
3. Matsui, M., et al. (2012). Serine’s role in keratin formation. Clinical Biochemistry Journal.
4. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology. (2014). The effects of serine on hair hydration and flexibility.
5. Zempleni, J., et al. (2003). Threonine’s role in collagen and keratin formation. Annual Review of Nutrition.
6. U.S. National Library of Medicine. Amino acids and hair health. MedlinePlus.
