Amorepacific, a leader in innovative beauty solutions, has developed a novel peptide aimed at strengthening hair keratin through the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and molecular modeling technologies.

This groundbreaking research was published in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science under the title "Bio-active designed peptide for hair keratin strengthening. "

Hair is constantly exposed to external stressors including UV rays, heat, and chemical treatments, resulting in damage that weakens the keratin protein structure within.

This degradation can lead to increased hair breakage and reduced elasticity.

To address this challenge, Amorepacific's Research and Innovation (R&I) Center utilized molecular docking and dynamics simulations to meticulously analyze peptide candidates capable of selectively binding to hair keratin.

After analyzing approximately 8,000 different compounds, the research team identified the optimal peptide, named Tripeptide-132, known for its remarkable binding affinity to hair keratin.

Experimental results indicated that hair treated with this peptide achieved up to a 44% increase in tensile strength, reducing breakage by around 50% even under repetitive physical stress conditions.

Additionally, analysis of the cuticle structure demonstrated notable improvements in hair surface organization and smoothness.

These findings suggest a fundamental reinforcement of the internal structure of damaged hair, leading to improved durability during everyday drying and styling processes while maintaining elasticity.

Furthermore, the enhanced cuticle arrangement is expected to elevate the sensory experience regarding softness and shine.

The research meticulously elucidated the mechanics of hair improvement through the sequence of 'molecular design – keratin binding – structural reinforcement – sensory enhancement,' scientifically articulating the concepts of 'softness' and 'shine' for hair.

The Amorepacific R&I Center has continuously leveraged its expertise in precision biotechnology obtained from research on skin barriers, microbiomes, and aging, striving to integrate molecular-level understanding of skin, scalp, and hair structures and functions.

This scientific foundation extends beyond skincare into the realms of scalp and hair, bolstering competitive advantages in the design and efficacy verification of high-performance materials.

This progress is aligned with Amorepacific's commitment to 'Holistic Longevity' principles in beauty research.

To embody healthy beauty throughout all life stages, the company is deepening its understanding of aging and damage while further enhancing its precision-targeted research capabilities in hair and scalp sectors.

"This study exemplifies an innovative application of AI and molecular design technologies for precise targeting of hair proteins," stated Seo Byeong-hwi, CTO of Amorepacific's R&I Center.

He emphasized the company’s ongoing commitment to strengthen its competitiveness in hair beauty based on an AI-first strategy and the Holistic Longevity perspective.