Does collagen help hair growth?

30th November 2024

Hair loss can be distressing for anyone, and understanding the best ways to promote hair growth has become a key focus for patients and clinics alike. One popular supplement that has generated increased interest is collagen. Well-known for its benefits to skin elasticity and cell regeneration, collagen is now being examined for its potential to promote hair health and growth.

In this blog, we’ll explore whether collagen can help hair growth, exploring the science behind collagen and what to be aware of when implementing collagen into a hair care routine.

What is collagen?

Collagen is a key protein within the body. It plays a vital role in providing structure and elasticity to various bodily systems such as connective tissues, bones, skin, and tendons. This helps to keep our skin firm and joints flexible. Collagen is also involved in key cellular processes like tissue regeneration and repair, immune system functioning, and cell-to-cell communication.

When it comes to the hair, collagen may play an important role in maintaining the health and functioning of the scalp and hair follicles. The dermis, the middle layer of skin on the scalp where hair follicles are rooted, is made up of mainly collagen, helping to maintain its strength and elasticity. Collagen can also help to replenish and regenerate new hair follicles, offering a solid foundation for hair growth.

The body naturally produces collagen, and protein can also be found in certain foods like meat, fish, and bone broth. However, as we age, collagen production naturally declines, meaning our joints and tissues lose support over time. For example, the skin begins to lose elasticity, meaning wrinkles and fine lines begin to form. This decline in collagen levels could also contribute to less healthy hair and scalp conditions, paving the way for thinning hair or even hair loss.

This has led researchers and health enthusiasts to consider whether supplementing with collagen could help replenish what the body naturally loses over time.

Collagen supplements | Can collagen help hair growth?

Collagen has been used in skin health treatments for several years, with studies showing that collagen supplements can lead to benefits such as increased elasticity, hydration, and reduced wrinkles.

Collagen supplements come in various forms, including powders, capsules, and topical treatments. The evidence on the link between collagen and hair is limited, but in theory, collagen supplements may help to:

Maintain and develop healthy hair follicles

Collagen makes up most of the dermis, which is the middle layer of skin where the root of a hair follicle sits. Collagen may help to provide strength and support to follicles, as well as replenish and regenerate new hair follicles. This could help to maintain a healthy hair growth cycle.

Reduce oxidative stress

Some forms of collagen have ‘antioxidant’ properties, which means they help to neutralise free radicals (unstable atoms) in the body. Free radicals can damage hair health and lead to ageing in the hair. So, reducing the action of these atoms with antioxidants may help to promote healthy hair.

Improve hair growth

Collagen is built up of amino acids, which are the molecules that form protein. Hair is made up of several different proteins. When collagen breaks down, these amino acids may be used to build the essential proteins that make up hair.

It’s important to note that there are not many human-based studies looking into collagen and hair, and the potential benefits above are largely theoretical and have limited evidence. Lots more research is needed to understand fully whether collagen helps hair growth.

Some caveats to be aware of

As well as the limited evidence specific to hair growth, there are some other important considerations to be mindful of:

• Individual variability: The results of collagen supplements will likely vary from person to person depending on factors such as age, genetics, diet, and underlying health conditions.
• Quality of collagen supplements: Different supplements and brands may vary in their effectiveness.
• Research bias: Some research may be funded by organisations that would benefit from results showing collagen products are effective in promoting hair growth. This can mean the evidence is not very reliable, so be mindful with any evidence you read.
• Not a cure for hair loss: It’s important to understand that while collagen may be a useful addition to a hair care routine, it is not a cure for hair loss and should not be considered as a standalone treatment, especially for genetic hair loss conditions such as androgenetic alopecia (male pattern baldness or female pattern baldness).

However, there are many proven hair loss treatments which can help to slow hair loss or improve hair growth. These include laser treatment, plasma-rich platelet treatment, hair loss surgery or hair loss medications such as minoxidil or finasteride. If you are experiencing hair loss of any kind, it’s best to see a hair loss specialist to help understand your specific type of hair loss and the most useful treatment options.

Personalised hair loss treatments at The Maitland Clinic

While collagen supplements may not be a magic solution to hair loss and the research remains limited, they may be able to play a part alongside more evidence-based treatments.

At The Maitland Clinic, our team of hair loss experts specialise in diagnosing and treating hair loss with proven, science-backed solutions tailored to your unique needs. Whether you’re exploring if collagen can help hair growth, or you’re seeking proven hair loss treatments, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Contact us today to book a consultation and take a step toward achieving healthier, stronger hair.