Amino Acids and Black Hair Growth

Amino acids play a very important role in hair care. These tiny molecules combine to make up the larger proteins that add strength and structure to the hair shaft.

Function

Amino acids play a key role in the growth and maintenance of all body cells, including hair cells. There are more than 20 different types of amino acids.

Common Amino Acids

• Methionine--Rich in sulfur, methionine helps prevent hair loss and thwarts skin and nail problems.
• Arginine--Arginine promotes hair growth and health by increasing circulation to the scalp.
• Cysteine/Cystine--These two amino acids support hair and skin elasticity, texture, and keratin structure.

Significance for Black Hair

Black hair is often subjected to harsh chemical processes, such as relaxing and coloring, that damage the hair shaft by breaking protein bonds and causing amino acid loss. Replacing amino acids and protein helps strengthen the hair in places that have been damaged by chemical treatments.

Amino Acid Hair Growth

Amino acids encourage hair growth by protecting and reinforcing the hair shaft. Over time, this improved hair retention results in longer, stronger hair.

Fun Fact

There are two types of amino acids: essential and non-essential. Unlike essential amino acids, non-essential amino acids are naturally produced by the body.

References

• Amino Acids
• Encyclopedia of Acids
• Amino Acids Info

Resources

• Amino Acids and Hair
• Hair loss and amino acids