What is lysine?

Lysine is an essential amino acid that the body cannot synthesize and therefore must be obtained through diet or supplementation. Its biological importance lies in the fact that it directly participates in the formation, structure, and stability of proteins, especially those that make up connective tissue, such as collagen, elastin, and keratin.

In fact, a deficiency in lysine (or vitamin C) can lead to defective collagen with a lower cross-linking capacity, which clinically results in skin laxity, poor wound healing, or capillary fragility.

Lysine was first isolated in 1889 by the German chemist Drechsel from milk casein. However, its biological relevance began to be studied in depth in the mid-20th century, when its role in collagen synthesis and in the processes of tissue growth and repair was confirmed. From the 1980s onward, various clinical and dermatological studies began to explore its use in nutraceuticals and advanced cosmetics, after observing that lysine supplementation could improve skin healing, strengthen the dermal structure, and promote regeneration following aesthetic treatments.

Use of lysine in aesthetic medicine

In aesthetic medicine, lysine is used for its ability to:

• Stimulate collagen synthesis: it participates in the hydroxylation of lysine and proline, two essential steps in the formation of mature and stable collagen. As a result, it improves skin firmness, reduces flaccidity, and helps maintain denser, more resilient skin. For this reason, it is included in nutraceuticals, meso-cocktails, and mesotherapy formulations designed for anti-aging and firming treatments.
• Promote repair and healing: it stimulates connective tissue regeneration, accelerates post-treatment recovery (laser, peels, radiofrequency, microneedling, etc.), and improves tissue quality during repair processes.
• Support antioxidant and cellular defense: although not a direct antioxidant, lysine contributes to maintaining redox balance and enhances protection against oxidative damage, helping to preserve healthier skin and improve resistance to environmental aging.

In the cosmetic field, lysine is incorporated into topical formulations for its ability to improve skin hydration and elasticity, enhance cellular cohesion, strengthen the skin’s barrier function, and boost the efficacy of regenerating and firming actives.

Lysine is one of the key ingredients used in our Mesoactives products, formulated exclusively for transdermal electroporation applications.

In hair cosmetics, lysine is used to strengthen the hair follicle, improve hair resistance, and help reduce hair loss. Its role in keratin synthesis and in the absorption of essential minerals (such as iron and zinc) makes it a valuable ally in treatments for alopecia and weakened hair.

Collagen

Elastin

Firmness