The conversation around collagen typically focuses on its benefits for the skin on the face, but some dermatologists are keen to highlight that the scalp—and therefore the health of your hair—can also reap rewards from collagen supplements.
Sanja Zivanovic, biomedical doctor and founder of ingestible brand Skin Molecule X, explains: “Collagen is a protein naturally produced by our body and represents about 25% of our protein mass.” It’s found in cartilage and hair as well as the skin, and the natural depletion of collagen as we get older means that our hair can lose its vitality. Collagen “strengthens the hair follicle and regenerates the hair,” Zivanovic says.
While collagen doesn’t directly promote hair growth, it can boost it, she goes on. “Taking collagen daily will provide nutrients necessary for the formation of new, stronger hair from the root, which will [help to] make it grow faster,” Zivanovic explains. It will also encourage hair growth by boosting the blood circulation in the scalp. On top of this, collagen is a source of amino acids that strengthen the hair follicles and promote the synthesis of keratin—the outer layer of the hair that gives it protection.
When and how should I explore taking collagen?
The natural production of collagen decreases starting at age 25, so Zivanovic suggests introducing supplements from then. But remember that you can also boost your collagen intake through collagen-rich foods, such as bone broth, turkey, egg whites, and fish.
When choosing a good collagen supplement for your hair, take note of the following:
- That it is hydrolyzed.
- That it is of marine origin. “It is the purest and most easily absorbed as it has a smaller molecular size,” says Zivanovic.
- Take 10gs each day and be consistent with it.
- Look for a liquid collagen if possible. “Collagen in liquid form optimizes absorption because the active ingredients are stabilized and have been diluted under controlled conditions in a laboratory.”
- Look for a collagen supplement that contains vitamin C to promote the synthesis of collagen itself, keratin to protect the hair, iron to prevent hair loss, biotin (vitamin B7) to improve hair elasticity and amino acids that help the synthesis of collagen and keratin.