- Scientifically Validated Improvement in Damaged Hair Structure via Enhanced Hair Care Peptide Design

Amorepacific, leveraging the power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and molecular modeling technology, has developed a novel peptide that selectively strengthens the keratin within hair. The groundbreaking findings from this research have been published in the renowned International Journal of Cosmetic Science. (Article Title: "Bio-active Designed Peptide for Hair Keratin Strengthening")

Hair is continually exposed to a host of external stressors, including UV radiation, heat, and chemical treatments, which invariably lead to damage. This damage weakens the keratin protein structure within the hair shaft, resulting in breakage and diminished resilience. To address this fundamental issue, the Amorepacific R&I Center utilized molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations to carry out a precise analysis of candidate peptides capable of selectively binding with the keratin in hair.

Following a meticulous analysis of approximately 8,000 compounds, the research team successfully identified Tripeptide-132 as the optimal peptide, demonstrating a superior binding affinity for hair keratin. Experimental results revealed that hair treated with this peptide exhibited an increase in tensile strength by up to 44%, alongside an approximate 50% reduction in hair breakage, even under conditions of repeated physical stress. In addition, cuticle structure analysis confirmed a marked improvement in the alignment and smoothness of the hair's surface.

These results signify that by fundamentally reinforcing the weakened internal structure of damaged hair, this technology can help maintain a more resilient state, less prone to breakage even during daily drying and styling routines. Concurrently, by improving cuticle alignment, it elevates the sensory experience, enhancing palpable softness and visible shine. This research is also significant for its precise illumination of the hair improvement mechanism—from molecular design and keratin binding to hair structure reinforcement and enhanced feel—thereby scientifically demystifying the qualities of 'softness' and 'shine' in hair.

The Amorepacific R&I Center, building on its precision biotech expertise cultivated through extensive research in skin barrier science, microbiome studies, and aging, has continuously pursued an integrated understanding of the structure and function of the skin, scalp, and hair at the molecular level. This deep scientific foundation extends beyond skincare into the realms of scalp and hair science, serving as the foundation for securing a competitive edge across the entire spectrum of high-potency active ingredient design and efficacy verification. Upon this base, Amorepacific is fortifying its beauty research from a 'Holistic Longevity' perspective. The company continues to advance its precision-targeting research expertise in the fields of hair and scalp science to realize healthy beauty across the entire lifespan, grounded in a fundamental understanding of aging and damage.

Byung-Fhy Brian Suh, CTO and Head of Amorepacific R&I Center, stated, "This research is an innovative example of precise targeting of hair proteins through AI and molecular design technology. Moving forward, Amorepacific will continue to strengthen its competitiveness in the hair and beauty segments, guided by our AI First strategy and Holistic Longevity perspective."

The outcomes of this study have been incorporated into COSRX's recently launched Peptide-132 Shampoo, Treatment, and Hair Bonding Oil products, a cutting-edge solution for damaged hair care.