Suitability of MSH Black™ (Acetyl Hexapeptide-1) for Shampoo Formulation
Asked by: thanyaporn.atiwatesakun
On: November 13, 2025
Product Type:
Cosmetics
Question
Can MSH Black™ (Acetyl Hexapeptide-1) be incorporated into a shampoo formulation?
If not, what are the recommended product types (e.g., leave-on vs. wash-off) and usage guidelines for this ingredient, especially considering its function in reducing white/gray hair?
Answer
MSH Black™ (Acetyl Hexapeptide-1) is generally not recommended for use in a shampoo formulation.
Reasoning:
- Contact Time: Shampoo is a wash-off product with a very short contact time on the scalp (usually only a few minutes).
- Mechanism of Action: MSH Black™ works by stimulating melanin production to reduce the occurrence of new gray or white hair growth. For this effect, the peptide needs sufficient time to penetrate and interact with the hair follicles on the scalp.
- Recommended Form: The product description specifically suggests using MSH Black™ in leave-on products such as a hair spray or scalp serum to ensure maximum efficacy and contact time with the scalp.
Recommendation for Use:
- Product Type: Use in a leave-on scalp treatment (e.g., hair tonic, scalp serum, hair spray).
- Usage Rate: 1-5%, with 5% being the recommended concentration for reducing the appearance of white/gray hair.
- Mixing: Mix into the water phase and do not expose to heat.
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MSH Black™ (Acetyl Hexapeptide-1)
Cosmetics