Amino acids are organic compounds that are the building blocks of proteins. They play crucial roles in various biological processes, including the structure, function, and regulation of tissues and organs in our bodies. There are 20 different amino acids that can combine in various ways to form a vast array of proteins.
Your hair is made of protein, and hence it's made of amino acids. The amino acids are responsible for your hair strength and structure. If you have a diet that's deficient in protein, and also in specific amino acids called essential amino acids, which are proteins your body can't make on its own, your hair can break more easily. It won’t grow to its best ability or have its best quality.
So, what kind of benefits does incorporating amino acids in your hair care routine provide? As mentioned, these tiny protein building blocks give you stronger lengths. This means hair that’s visibly shinier, smoother to the touch, less frizzy-looking, and more resistant to breakage caused by styling, brushing, and chemical processing. Incorporating amino acids into your hair care routine will help support the health, strength, and appearance of your hair. They are especially beneficial for damaged, chemically-treated, or over-processed hair and are important for several reasons:
STRUCTURAL COMPONENT OF HAIR
Hair is primarily composed of a protein called keratin, and keratin itself is made up of amino acids. Therefore, amino acids are fundamental in maintaining the structural integrity of hair strands.
REPAIR AND GROWTH
Amino acids are essential for the repair and growth of hair. They help to replace damaged or weakened hair fibres, leading to stronger, healthier hair.
HYDRATION & MOISTURE RETENTION
Amino acids like arginine, proline, threonine and serine, can add and help retain moisture in the hair, preventing it from becoming dry and brittle.
TEXTURE & ELASTICITY
Amino acids contribute to the texture and elasticity of the hair. They help maintain its flexibility and prevent it from becoming overly rigid or prone to breakage.
PH BALANCE
Amino acids help maintain the natural pH balance of the hair. This is important for keeping the hair's cuticle (outer layer) smooth and healthy.
PROTECTION FROM ENVIRONMENTAL DAMAGE
Amino acids can act as a protective barrier against environmental factors like UV radiation and pollution, which can damage the hair.
REGULATION OF OIL PRODUCTION
Certain amino acids play a role in regulating the production of sebum (natural oil) on the scalp. This helps prevent the hair from becoming too oily or too dry.
COLOUR-TREATED HAIR
Amino acids can help maintain colour-treated hair by replenishing lost proteins and protecting against further damage from chemical treatments.
PREVENTING HAIR LOSS
Specific amino acids have been associated with promoting hair growth and preventing hair loss.
At Septième we have been working closely alongside the best chemists and laboratory in the hair care industry to create an innovative formulation to help your hair to its absolute best health. With our French Laundry Hair Cleansing Mist we are extremely proud offer you a formula with no less than 13 amino acids (5 essential ones) to maximize the quality, strength, and appearance of your hair:
Alanine
Arginine
Aspartic Acid
Glycine
Histidine
Isoleucine
PCA (derived from amino acids)
Phenylalanine
Proline
Serine
Sodium PCA (related to amino acids)
Threonine
Valine
To read more about our amino acids and our other carefully chosen and examined ingredients, go to our Ingredient Glossary which provides transparent information on the function and benefits of all ingredients we use.