Bryan Johnson's Use of Peptides
Bryan Johnson's Project Blueprint is a highly meticulous, science-based approach to reversing biological age, with peptides playing a critical role. His protocol evolves based on continuous biomarker testing and the latest research, incorporating specific peptides to target cellular health, skin elasticity, and other anti-aging factors. The peptides he uses can be broadly categorized into ingestible and topical applications, each serving a distinct purpose within his regimen.
Ingestible Peptides
For systemic effects, Johnson includes peptides in his diet to support overall tissue integrity and function. The most prominent example is his daily intake of collagen peptides.
- Collagen Peptides: Johnson consumes 25g of collagen peptides every day, often mixed into his morning drink or breakfast. Collagen is the body's most abundant protein, crucial for the structure of skin, joints, tendons, and bones. By supplementing, he aims to counteract the natural decline in collagen production that occurs with age, supporting skin elasticity, joint health, and muscle recovery. While the evidence for collagen's effectiveness is still developing, his use is based on the theory of replenishing this key structural protein.
Beyond collagen, Johnson has openly experimented with more advanced peptides. He detailed an injectable protocol involving Epithalon and Thymulin on his X account.
- Epithalon and Thymulin: In a post from May 2024, Johnson mentioned a five-day course of intramuscular injections every six months, using 10mg of Epithalon and 10mg of Thymulin daily. These are research peptides, with limited human studies, believed to be linked to longevity. The intention is to affect epigenetic markers and possibly cellular function, though he noted minimal expected changes due to his already optimized health metrics.
Topical Peptides
In addition to ingestion, Johnson applies peptides externally to address cosmetic concerns and support localized tissue health, particularly for his hair and skin.
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GHK-Cu: Johnson has experimented with GHK copper peptide, primarily for skin and hair health. GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring copper complex that can stimulate collagen and elastin production. Its application is focused on skin regeneration and boosting hair follicle vitality.
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Blueprint Peptide Serum: As part of his comprehensive hair care protocol, Johnson uses a specific peptide serum. This serum contains an advanced peptide complex designed to support the appearance of fuller, thicker hair and improve scalp vitality. It is applied directly to the scalp to deliver peptides and other key ingredients to the hair follicles.
Peptide Uses in Bryan Johnson's Protocol: A Comparison
| Peptide Category | Specific Peptide | Primary Function in Blueprint | Application Method | Evidence Level (as noted) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ingestible (Systemic) | Collagen Peptides | Skin elasticity, joint health, tissue repair | Oral powder | Limited human research, but widely used |
| Ingestible (Systemic) | Epithalon | Influence epigenetic markers, cellular function | Intramuscular injection | Limited human research |
| Ingestible (Systemic) | Thymulin | Influence epigenetic markers, cellular function | Intramuscular injection | Limited human research |
| Topical | GHK-Cu | Skin regeneration, collagen production, hair follicle vitality | Topical serum | Known properties, used in cosmetics |
| Topical | Blueprint Hair Peptide Serum | Support fuller, thicker hair appearance, scalp vitality | Topical serum | Product claims, part of specific protocol |
The Role of Peptides in the Broader Blueprint Protocol
While peptides are an intriguing and actively-researched part of Johnson's regimen, it is crucial to understand that they are just one piece of his much larger longevity strategy. His protocol is comprehensive, combining a strict, plant-based diet, an intense exercise program, sleep optimization, and a multitude of other supplements and therapies. For example, he also takes NMN and NR to boost NAD+ levels, compounds that are precursors but not peptides. His regimen is characterized by its reliance on constant biomarker monitoring, allowing him and his team of over 30 medical experts to make data-driven adjustments based on measurable outcomes. This holistic approach is what defines Blueprint, rather than any single supplement or peptide.
The Importance of Data and Personalization
Johnson's approach highlights the potential for personalized, data-driven health optimization. He regularly tests biomarkers to track his progress and refine his protocol, making adjustments as new scientific evidence emerges. This contrasts with a generic, static supplement routine. The peptides he chooses are selected to address specific aging concerns identified through his testing, such as skin, joint, and hair health. His willingness to experiment and share his results provides valuable (though not definitive) data on the effects of these interventions in a real-world setting.
Outbound Link
For more detailed information on Bryan Johnson's broader protocol and its scientific backing, visit the official Project Blueprint website.
Conclusion
In summary, Bryan Johnson uses a select number of peptides as part of his extensive Project Blueprint. This includes daily oral collagen peptides for connective tissue health, and he has also experimented with injectable peptides like Epithalon and Thymulin, along with topical ones such as GHK-Cu and his own hair peptide serum. However, these are components of a much larger, data-driven system that also includes diet, exercise, and a host of other supplements. His protocol emphasizes personalized, precise interventions based on continuous monitoring of biological markers, offering an intriguing, if extreme, model for biohacking and longevity.
