Metagen selects ingredients for the function they serve within the scalp and hair environment—not for their popularity in isolation. Peptide technologies, bioenergetic actives, biomimetic hydrators, amino acids, proteins and botanicals are selected as complementary parts of a larger routine.
Ingredients are the tools.
Sequence is the method.
Metagen formulas are built through complementary ingredient families. Each family plays a different role within the scalp and hair environment, while the complete routine brings those functions together.
Featured technologies
The technologies behind the system
Layered peptide technologyCue 5 · Rebuild
Multi-Peptide Complex
A layered peptide system selected to support fuller-looking density, stronger-looking roots and a more resilient scalp environment.
Rather than relying on one isolated hero ingredient, the complex combines Biotinyl Tripeptide-1, Acetyl Tetrapeptide-3, Acetyl Hexapeptide-1, Copper Tripeptide-1 and ginsenoside support — complementary cosmetic roles spanning anchoring appearance, density architecture, resilience, structural remodeling and visible vitality.
Water-binding support for a softer, more cushioned scalp and hair feel.
Hyaluronic acid binds and retains water at the surface, while Sodium PCA reflects the skin's own Natural Moisturizing Factor — weightless hydration without heavy oils or coatings.
Supports softness, flexibility, resilience and reduced breakage appearance.
L-Proline, Hydroxyproline, hydrolyzed keratin and hydrolyzed collagen condition the fiber and support the appearance of smoother, stronger, less fragile hair.
Search by ingredient, ingredient family, product, or role within the Metagen Method.
Family
Product
Layered peptide technology
Multi-Peptide Complex
A layered peptide system designed to support fuller-looking density, stronger-looking roots and a more resilient scalp environment.
Cue 5 · Rebuild
What it is
A complex combining Biotinyl Tripeptide-1, Acetyl Tetrapeptide-3, Acetyl Hexapeptide-1, Copper Tripeptide-1 and ginsenoside support.
Why Metagen uses it
Because the appearance of stronger, fuller, more resilient hair is not one-dimensional.
Its role in the Method
The core Rebuild technology — complementary cosmetic roles rather than one isolated hero ingredient.
Found in
Scalp Serum
Metagen benefit language
A layered peptide system designed to support fuller-looking density, stronger-looking roots and a more resilient scalp environment.
Read the science
The complex is designed around complementary cosmetic roles: anchoring appearance, density architecture, resilience, structural remodeling and visible vitality.
Biomimetic peptide
Copper Tripeptide-1
Also known as GHK-Cu
Supports the appearance of a firmer, stronger, more resilient scalp and root environment.
Cue 5 · Rebuild
What it is
A copper-binding peptide modeled on a naturally occurring peptide complex, included as part of a broader structural-support architecture.
Why Metagen uses it
To add a remodeling and structural-support layer to formulas designed for visible resilience, root strength and density appearance.
Its role in the Method
Structural remodeling support within Cue 5 · Rebuild.
Found in
Scalp Serum
Metagen benefit language
Supports a firmer, stronger-looking scalp environment and complements the appearance of more resilient, anchored hair.
Read the science
Laboratory and animal research has examined GHK-Cu in relation to extracellular-matrix production and remodeling, including collagen-associated structures. These findings support its cosmetic positioning around structural quality rather than direct hair-growth claims.
Biomimetic peptide
Biotinyl Tripeptide-1
Supports anchorage appearance and helps reduce the look of breakage.
Cue 5 · Rebuild
What it is
A biotin-linked peptide included in the Metagen Multi-Peptide Complex.
Why Metagen uses it
To support hair that looks more secure, resilient and reinforced at the root.
Its role in the Method
The anchoring layer within Cue 5 · Rebuild.
Found in
Scalp Serum
Metagen benefit language
Supports anchorage appearance and helps reduce the look of breakage.
Cosmetic signaling peptide
Acetyl Tetrapeptide-3
Contributes to fuller-looking density and the appearance of stronger structural support.
Cue 5 · Rebuild
What it is
A signaling peptide used within the Multi-Peptide Complex to support visible density and structural cohesion around the root environment.
Why Metagen uses it
To complement anchoring and remodeling peptides with targeted density-appearance support.
Its role in the Method
Density architecture within Cue 5 · Rebuild.
Found in
Scalp Serum
Metagen benefit language
Contributes to fuller-looking density and the appearance of stronger structural support.
Read the science
A small randomized trial studied acetyl tetrapeptide-3 as part of a multi-ingredient botanical and peptide blend. Because the peptide was not tested alone, the results cannot be attributed specifically to it — which is why Metagen uses cosmetic density and structural-support language.
Biomimetic peptide
Acetyl Hexapeptide-1
Helps hair appear more vibrant, resilient and secure.
Cue 5 · Rebuild
What it is
A resilience-supporting peptide within the Multi-Peptide Complex.
Why Metagen uses it
To add another layer of visible vitality and structural resilience to Cue 5.
Its role in the Method
Visible resilience and vitality within Cue 5 · Rebuild.
Found in
Scalp Serum
Metagen benefit language
Helps hair appear more vibrant, resilient and secure.
Plant-derived bioactive
Ginsenoside
Supports a conditioned scalp environment and the appearance of vitality and density.
Cue 5 · Rebuild
What it is
Naturally occurring compounds associated with ginseng, positioned around visible vitality and tissue-conditioning benefits.
Why Metagen uses it
To complement the peptide complex with a botanical-derived vitality and conditioning layer.
Its role in the Method
Vitality and conditioning support within the serum architecture.
Found in
Scalp Serum
Metagen benefit language
Supports a conditioned scalp environment and the appearance of vitality and density.
Bioenergetic active
Caffeine
Helps refresh the scalp and support an energized, vital-looking root environment.
Cue 2 · Activate
What it is
A bioenergetic active used to support an energized, refreshed scalp environment.
Why Metagen uses it
To reinforce the energized scalp experience and complement the system's activation cue.
Its role in the Method
Part of a broader activation story: cleansing away buildup, refreshing the scalp and supporting the appearance of vitality.
Found in
Scalpfoliant, Shampoo
Metagen benefit language
Helps refresh the scalp and support an energized, vital-looking root environment.
Read the science
In laboratory studies using isolated human hair follicles, caffeine was investigated for its effect on testosterone-related suppression and hair-shaft elongation. These were controlled in-vitro studies — not proof that a finished rinse-off cosmetic regrows hair.
Vitamin B3 derivative
Niacinamide
Also known as Nicotinamide
Supports a balanced, conditioned scalp environment and helps maintain the moisture barrier.
Cue 4 · Restore
What it is
A form of vitamin B3 involved in cellular NAD metabolism, used here as barrier-aware scalp conditioning.
Why Metagen uses it
To support scalp-barrier quality, moisture balance, comfort and overall visible scalp condition.
Its role in the Method
Barrier and conditioning support across preparation, leave-on and serum steps.
Found in
Scalpfoliant, Micromist, Scalp Serum
Metagen benefit language
Supports a balanced, conditioned scalp environment and helps maintain the moisture barrier.
Read the science
In human skin research, topical nicotinamide has been associated with increased synthesis of ceramides and other barrier lipids, improved hydration and reduced transepidermal water loss. Its clearest role in Metagen is barrier-aware conditioning — not a promise to boost scalp NAD+.
Bioadaptive botanical
Peppermint
Provides a refreshing cooling sensation that leaves the scalp feeling awakened and renewed.
Cues 1–2 · Prime + Activate
What it is
A botanical that delivers the immediate sensation of freshness and cooling associated with a freshly cleansed scalp.
Why Metagen uses it
To make the Prime and Activate steps feel immediate, fresh, clean and energizing.
Its role in the Method
Sensory activation — primarily an experiential and sensorial active.
Found in
Scalpfoliant, Shampoo
Metagen benefit language
Provides a refreshing cooling sensation that leaves the scalp feeling awakened and renewed.
Read the science
Its menthol component interacts with cold-sensing receptors, creating a cooling experience without literally lowering tissue temperature.
Sensorial active
Menthol
Creates an immediate cryo-cooling sensation that leaves the scalp feeling refreshed and awakened.
Cue 1 · Prime
What it is
The cooling component associated with peppermint, central to the Scalpfoliant's cryo-cool experience.
Why Metagen uses it
To make scalp preparation feel visible and experiential — cooling, refreshing and clarifying before cleansing.
Its role in the Method
The cryo-cooling experience within Cue 1 · Prime.
Found in
Scalpfoliant
Metagen benefit language
Creates an immediate cryo-cooling sensation that leaves the scalp feeling refreshed and awakened.
Humectant
Hyaluronic Acid
Helps attract and retain moisture for a softer, more cushioned scalp and hair feel.
Cue 4 · Restore
What it is
A moisture-support molecule known for its ability to bind and retain water at the skin's surface.
Why Metagen uses it
To support weightless hydration without relying on heavy oils or coatings.
Its role in the Method
The hydration reservoir within the moisture system.
Found in
Shampoo, Conditioner, Micromist
Metagen benefit language
Helps attract and retain moisture for a softer, more cushioned scalp and hair feel.
Read the science
Clinical studies of topical formulations containing hyaluronic acid have demonstrated improvements in skin hydration, although results depend on molecular weight, concentration, delivery system and the complete formula.
Natural Moisturizing Factor component
Sodium PCA
A biomimetic humectant that helps bind moisture and maintain a soft, comfortable scalp environment.
Cue 4 · Restore
What it is
The sodium salt of pyrrolidone carboxylic acid, a substance associated with the skin's Natural Moisturizing Factor.
Why Metagen uses it
To replenish lightweight surface hydration and help reduce the dry, tight feeling that can follow cleansing or metabolic change.
Its role in the Method
Biomimetic water binding within Cue 4 · Restore.
Found in
Shampoo, Conditioner, Micromist
Metagen benefit language
A biomimetic humectant that helps bind moisture and maintain a soft, comfortable scalp environment.
Provitamin B5
Panthenol
Also known as Provitamin B5
Supports moisture, softness, flexibility and a more comfortable scalp feel.
Cue 4 · Restore
What it is
A water-attracting conditioning ingredient that helps support softness and barrier comfort.
Why Metagen uses it
To help offset the dry or depleted feel that can follow cleansing and to support softer, more flexible-feeling hair.
Its role in the Method
Hydration, comfort and flexibility within the broader conditioning system.
Found in
Shampoo, Scalp Serum
Metagen benefit language
Supports moisture, softness, flexibility and a more comfortable scalp feel.
Read the science
Controlled human studies have found that topical dexpanthenol-containing formulas can increase stratum-corneum hydration and reduce transepidermal water loss. Because these effects are influenced by the complete formula, Metagen positions panthenol as part of a broader hydration and conditioning system.
Humectant
Glycerin
Helps attract and retain moisture for a soft, conditioned scalp and hair feel.
Cue 4 · Restore
What it is
A humectant that attracts water into the outer layers of the skin and helps improve hydration.
Why Metagen uses it
To support lasting moisture, comfortable application and a more flexible scalp surface.
Its role in the Method
Moisture retention — also helps create a smooth, lightweight delivery environment for other ingredients.
Found in
Scalp Serum
Metagen benefit language
Helps attract and retain moisture for a soft, conditioned scalp and hair feel.
Read the science
Human studies have documented increased stratum-corneum hydration with glycerin-containing formulations, with some studies also reporting support for barrier recovery.
Amino acid
L-Proline
Supports conditioning, softness and a replenished hair and scalp feel.
Cue 3 · Stabilize
What it is
An amino acid strongly associated with collagen's structure and the broader amino-acid environment of skin and hair.
Why Metagen uses it
To contribute to the biomimetic amino-acid environment surrounding the scalp and hair fiber.
Its role in the Method
Biomimetic replenishment within the amino-acid system.
Found in
Shampoo, Conditioner, Micromist
Metagen benefit language
Supports conditioning, softness and a replenished hair and scalp feel.
Read the science
Within a cosmetic formula, L-Proline should not be described as rebuilding the scalp's collagen. Its appropriate role is surface conditioning, amino-acid replenishment and support for a softer, more flexible feel.
Collagen-associated amino acid
Hydroxyproline
Helps condition dry, fragile-feeling hair and supports a more flexible, resilient feel.
Cue 3 · Stabilize
What it is
An amino acid characteristically associated with collagen, functioning here as a cosmetic conditioning and replenishment ingredient.
Why Metagen uses it
To complement L-Proline and the protein system with collagen-coded amino-acid support.
Its role in the Method
Structural conditioning within the amino-acid system.
Found in
Shampoo, Conditioner, Micromist
Metagen benefit language
Helps condition dry, fragile-feeling hair and supports a more flexible, resilient feel.
Read the science
It is a conditioning and replenishment ingredient — not a claim to generate new collagen within living scalp tissue.
Hair-identical protein derivative
Hydrolyzed Keratin
Helps condition and reinforce fragile-feeling strands for smoother, stronger-looking hair.
Cue 3 · Stabilize
What it is
Keratin — the principal structural protein of the hair fiber — processed into smaller components for cosmetic formulas.
Why Metagen uses it
To address the strand-level expression of metabolic change: roughness, dryness, fragility and reduced resilience.
Its role in the Method
Fiber conditioning and strength appearance within Cue 3 · Stabilize.
Found in
Conditioner
Metagen benefit language
Helps condition and reinforce fragile-feeling strands for smoother, stronger-looking hair.
Read the science
It does not permanently reconstruct damaged hair. It can help condition the fiber, improve the feel of rough areas and support the appearance of smoother, stronger, less fragile hair.
Conditioning protein
Hydrolyzed Collagen
Supports softness, smoothness and a fuller, more conditioned hair feel.
Cue 3 · Stabilize
What it is
A conditioning and film-forming protein used cosmetically at the surface of the hair.
Why Metagen uses it
To add softness and body to fragile-feeling hair without relying solely on heavy oils.
Its role in the Method
Softness, body and film-forming support within Cue 3 · Stabilize.
Found in
Conditioner
Metagen benefit language
Supports softness, smoothness and a fuller, more conditioned hair feel.
Read the science
Applied topically, it should not be described as replacing or generating living dermal collagen. Its value is at the surface: smoother, softer, more conditioned, visually fuller hair.
Polyphenol-rich botanical
Green Tea
Also known as Camellia sinensis
Provides antioxidant botanical support for a balanced, resilient-looking scalp environment.
Cue 3 · Stabilize
What it is
A botanical containing polyphenols including epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG).
Why Metagen uses it
To help support the scalp against visible effects associated with environmental and oxidative stress.
Its role in the Method
Antioxidant and scalp-environment support across the routine.
Found in
Scalpfoliant, Conditioner, Micromist, Scalp Serum
Metagen benefit language
Provides antioxidant botanical support for a balanced, resilient-looking scalp environment.
Read the science
Laboratory research has studied EGCG in human follicle models and in relation to 5-alpha-reductase activity. That evidence does not establish a finished Metagen cosmetic as a clinically proven DHT blocker — the responsible position is antioxidant and scalp-environment support.
Bioadaptive botanical
Rosemary
Helps refresh and condition the scalp while supporting the appearance of vitality.
Cues 1–2 · Prime + Activate
What it is
A traditional scalp-care botanical chosen for its fresh sensory profile and association with scalp vitality.
Why Metagen uses it
To complement cleansing, massage, cooling and activation with botanical scalp-conditioning support.
Its role in the Method
Refreshing and vitality support within the wash-day steps.
Found in
Scalpfoliant, Shampoo
Metagen benefit language
Helps refresh and condition the scalp while supporting the appearance of vitality.
Read the science
One randomized human trial evaluated rosemary oil — not rosemary extract and not a rinse-off Metagen formula — over six months. That research should not be used to claim every rosemary-containing product produces the same outcome.
Hydrating botanical
Aloe Vera
Provides lightweight botanical hydration and helps maintain a soft, comfortable scalp feel.
Cue 4 · Restore
What it is
A polysaccharide-rich botanical widely used in topical cosmetic care.
Why Metagen uses it
To support hydration, softness and comfort within formulas designed for dry or reactive-feeling scalp and hair.
Its role in the Method
Comfort and moisture support within the conditioning step.
Found in
Conditioner
Metagen benefit language
Provides lightweight botanical hydration and helps maintain a soft, comfortable scalp feel.
Read the science
A controlled study of cosmetic formulations containing freeze-dried aloe extract found improved stratum-corneum hydration, supporting its use as a natural humectant within moisturization systems.
Comfort-supporting botanical
Chamomile
Helps condition and comfort the scalp as part of a balanced botanical complex.
Cue 3 · Stabilize
What it is
A traditional botanical used in formulas designed for sensitive, dry or reactive-feeling skin.
Why Metagen uses it
To complement hydration and conditioning ingredients with a gentle botanical comfort layer.
Its role in the Method
Part of a broader comfort and stress-tone architecture rather than a stand-alone treatment active.
Found in
Conditioner
Metagen benefit language
Helps condition and comfort the scalp as part of a balanced botanical complex.
Skin-conditioning active
Allantoin
Provides soothing conditioning support for a comfortable, balanced scalp feel.
Across the routine
What it is
A scalp-conditioning ingredient selected for formulas intended for regular, long-term use.
Why Metagen uses it
To support a calm, comfortable scalp experience across multiple steps of the routine.
Its role in the Method
Balances more active-feeling ingredients — exfoliants, menthol, caffeine, peptides and cleansing systems — with a softer comfort layer.
Found in
Scalpfoliant, Conditioner, Micromist, Scalp Serum
Metagen benefit language
Provides soothing conditioning support for a comfortable, balanced scalp feel.
Mineral exfoliant
Perlite
Helps lift surface buildup and prepare the scalp for a cleaner, more receptive-feeling environment.
Cue 1 · Prime
What it is
A naturally derived volcanic mineral used as a physical exfoliating material.
Why Metagen uses it
To provide controlled physical surface refinement without positioning the formula as an aggressive acid treatment.
Its role in the Method
Part of Cue 1 because the scalp must first be prepared before the rest of the system is layered.
Found in
Scalpfoliant
Metagen benefit language
Helps lift surface buildup and prepare the scalp for a cleaner, more receptive-feeling environment.
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How Metagen formulates
Ingredients work differently when they work together.
A peptide cannot compensate for an uncomfortable, depleted scalp environment. A hydrator cannot remove buildup. A botanical cannot replace structural support. A cleanser cannot restore everything it removes.
That is why Metagen does not organize its method around one ingredient, one symptom or one promise. Ingredients are selected for complementary roles and placed within a deliberate sequence.
The Ingredient Intelligence library highlights selected ingredients and explains their intended cosmetic roles. Complete ingredient statements are provided on each product page and package.
Ingredient performance depends on the complete formula—including concentration, delivery system, surrounding ingredients, product format and whether the formula is rinse-off or leave-on.
