Plant-Based Amino Acids: A Natural Solution for Healthier Hair

In the world of natural hair care, plant-based amino acids have emerged as powerful allies. These organic compounds, sourced from plants like soybeans, wheat, and quinoa, are essential for strengthening and nourishing your hair. 
We’re going to be exploring how it’s sourced, its uses and effectiveness for the hair, skin and scalp, comparing it to similar ingredients, as well evaluating its safety as a beauty ingredient. 
 

What are plant based amino acids?

Amino acids are often termed the building blocks of life, essential for numerous bodily functions, including skin and hair care. Derived from the Greek word "amino," meaning "life-giving," amino acids are crucial for synthesizing proteins and other important molecules in our body.
Plant-based amino acids, extracted from sources like beans, seeds, and nuts, are increasingly recognized for their role in enhancing beauty naturally. 
Amino acids are organic compounds composed of nitrogen, carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen, along with a variable side chain group. In the realm of beauty, plant-based amino acids are harvested for their purity and sustainability. 
These amino acids are integral to maintaining skin elasticity and hair vitality, offering a gentler, more sustainable alternative to synthetic ingredients.

 

Scientific Insights and Benefits

Collagen, responsible for skin's firmness and elasticity, is primarily composed of three amino acids: proline, lysine, and glycine. 

Studies, including those referenced by the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), show that plant-based sources of these amino acids can boost collagen production, enhancing skin's texture and appearance. 

Similarly, serine and arginine, two amino acids found abundantly in plant sources, are known to support scalp health and hair growth.
 

Key Benefits of Plant-Based Amino Acids

For Skin:

• Hydration and Elasticity: Amino acids help to maintain skin's hydration, resilience, and an overall smooth appearance. They achieve this by enhancing skin's ability to retain moisture and by building a protective barrier.

• Anti-Aging: The antioxidant properties of certain amino acids can mitigate skin damage caused by free radicals, which accelerates aging. Regular use can reduce wrinkles and fine lines, promoting a youthful complexion.

 

For Hair:

1. Strength and Moisture Retention: Amino acids reinforce the strength of the hair shaft, promote moisture retention, and protect hair from environmental damage. This results in less brittle, healthier hair.

2. Scalp Health: By stimulating blood circulation to the scalp, amino acids nurture hair follicles, fostering hair growth and reducing hair loss.

3. Boost Moisture: They improve moisture retention, keeping your hair hydrated, smooth, and frizz-free, unlike heavier silicones that simply coat the strands.

4. Support Growth: Amino acids like arginine and cysteine promote blood circulation to the scalp, stimulating healthy hair growth. 

5. Colour Maintenance: Studies have shown that hair products like shampoos containing plant-based amino acids help dyed hair retain its color longer.

Comparing Plant-Based Amino Acids to Other Ingredients

Plant-based amino acids penetrate the hair shaft to nourish from within, providing a deeper level of care than synthetic ingredients. 

They are lighter than animal-derived proteins and more suitable for people seeking cruelty-free or hypoallergenic solutions.

Safety

Derived from plants like soybeans, wheat, and quinoa, these amino acids are extracted through natural processes to ensure safety and effectiveness. They are non-irritating and can be safely used across hair types, offering a gentle yet potent alternative to harsher chemicals. 

As with everything, using them topically or as a supplement, everything should be used in moderation. 

How to Use Amino Acids for skin and hair 

Incorporating amino acids into your beauty routine is straightforward:

• Skincare Products: Look for serums, moisturizers, and masks that list plant-based amino acids as key ingredients.
• Hair Care Products: Look for shampoos, conditioners, and hair serums formulated with hydrolyzed plant proteins and amino acids. Use 2-3 times per week to strengthen and hydrate your hair over time. 
• DIY Treatments: Create homemade masks with amino acid-rich foods like avocado, quinoa, and soy.

Ingredients to look for: 

Rice 

Quinoa 

Soybeans 

Wheat 

Hemp Seeds

Almonds

 

You can also try Abyssian’s Hello Volume range, specifically formulated with Fermented Yu-Su rice water. 

Rice water is rich in amino acids like cysteine, methionine, and inositol, which offer significant benefits for hair health. They strengthen hair by promoting keratin production, reducing breakage, and enhancing shine by smoothing the hair cuticle. 
Inositol, a key amino acid, improves blood circulation to the scalp, stimulating healthy hair growth while also providing lasting protection against damage. This natural remedy delivers a versatile solution for stronger, shinier, and more manageable hair.
 

Ethical and Sustainability Considerations

The sourcing of plant-based amino acids focuses on sustainable practices, ensuring minimal environmental impact. Choosing products that use these amino acids supports eco-friendly beauty standards and promotes biodiversity.

 

Final Conclusions

In summary, plant-based amino acids are an excellent natural solution for stronger, healthier hair and skin while still aligning with sustainable and ethical values. It can vastly improve hair growth and improve scalp health, and is worth adding into your hair and skin care routine.