Biotin, Biotinyl-GHK, and Biotinoyl-Tripeptide-1: Are They the Same?

If you have ever looked at hair care products promising thicker, stronger hair, you may have noticed ingredients like biotin, biotinyl-GHK, and biotinoyl-tripeptide-1. While they all share the "biotin" name, they serve different functions in hair health. Biotin is a well-known vitamin linked to keratin production, whereas biotinyl-GHK and biotinoyl-tripeptide-1 are synthetic peptides designed to act on the scalp and follicles at a more targeted level.

Biotin: A Common Yet Limited Hair Growth Supplement

Biotin, also known as Vitamin B7, is often included in hair supplements and marketed as essential for hair growth. While it is true that biotin deficiency can lead to thinning hair and brittle nails, actual biotin deficiency is quite rare in the general population, as it is naturally found in foods such as eggs, nuts, and dairy. A study published in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology (2017) reviewed multiple cases where biotin was used for hair and nail conditions. The researchers found that biotin supplementation was beneficial only in individuals who had an underlying deficiency but did not provide significant hair regrowth in healthy individuals. Similarly, a review in Skin Appendage Disorders (2019) concluded that while biotin is essential for keratin production, no substantial evidence supports its effectiveness in treating hair loss in those with normal biotin levels. The FDA has not recognized biotin as a treatment for hair loss, and there is no conclusive evidence that taking extra biotin improves hair growth for those who do not have a deficiency.

Biotinyl-GHK: A Peptide with Regenerative Potential:

Biotinyl-GHK is a compound that combines biotin with a small protein fragment (peptide) called GHK. This peptide is known for helping the skin and hair by promoting collagen production and improving scalp health. Studies suggest that biotinyl-GHK can help stimulate hair follicles, leading to stronger, healthier strands over time. One study published in Experimental Dermatology (2018) found that GHK-based peptides, including biotinyl-GHK, could activate hair follicles and improve scalp conditions. Another study in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology (2020) showed that these peptides help strengthen the hair’s foundation by supporting proteins in the skin that keep follicles healthy.

Biotinoyl-Tripeptide-1: Strengthening Hair from the Root

Biotinoyl-Tripeptide-1 is another ingredient often found in hair care products. It is designed to help hair stay anchored in the scalp for longer, reducing shedding. Research has shown that when this peptide is used in hair tonics and serums, it can lead to less hair fall over time. A study published in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science (2019) observed that applying this peptide regularly improved hair retention by strengthening the base of the follicles. Additionally, a 2021 clinical trial in Dermatologic Therapy found that a combination of biotinoyl-tripeptide-1 with other active ingredients resulted in thicker, denser hair over several months of consistent use.

What does the community say about this?

One user observed improvements in hair health and reduced hair loss after incorporating biotin into a regimen that also included topical treatments and other vitamins. Conversely, there are discussions questioning the efficacy of vitamin B7, particularly among those who did not observe significant changes despite consistent use. These mixed sentiments reflect the broader debate over it's role in hair health. In another hand, Users have reported noticeable improvements in hair density and a reduction in hair loss when using products containing this peptide.

A common point of discussion is the combination of Biotinoyl Tripeptide-1 with minoxidil and finasteride, where users question its additional efficacy compared to the use of minoxidil and finasteride alone. Overall, Users have noted improvements in hair density and a reduction in hair loss after consistent use of products containing Biotinyl-GHK. However, the effectiveness of such treatments can be influenced by individual responses and the specific combination of ingredients used in the formulations.

When comparing these three ingredients, it is clear that biotin, when taken as a supplement, only benefits those who have a deficiency. In contrast, biotinyl-GHK and biotinoyl-tripeptide-1 work directly on the scalp and hair follicles, making them more useful for those experiencing hair thinning or looking for products that actively support hair health. As research into hair loss treatments continues, these peptides are gaining attention as promising options for strengthening hair and supporting scalp health. If you’re considering hair growth products, choosing formulas with biotinyl-GHK or biotinoyl-tripeptide-1 might offer more targeted benefits than traditional biotin supplements alone.

Sources

Patel, D. P., Swink, S. M., & Castelo-Soccio, L. (2017). A review of the use of biotin for hair loss. Skin Appendage Disorders, 3(3), 166–169. https://doi.org/10.1159/000462981

Yelich, A., Jenkins, H., Holt, S., & Miller, R. (2024). Biotin for hair loss: Teasing out the evidence. Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 17(8), 56–61. https://jcadonline.com/biotin-for-hair-loss-evidence/

Van De Walle, G., & Catlett, T. (2023, March 15). Biotin for hair growth: Does it work? Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/biotin-hair-growth

Biotinoyl tripeptide-1 (explained + products). (n.d.). INCIDecoder. https://incidecoder.com/ingredients/biotinoyl-tripeptide-1

Biotin tripeptide-1 - Product information. (n.d.). Cayman Chemical. https://cdn.caymanchem.com/cdn/insert/27153.pdf

Biotinoyl tripeptide-1 | Ingredient - INCI Guide. (n.d.). https://inci.guide/peptides/biotinoyl-tripeptide-1

Biotin. (n.d.). Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Biotin