EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT HOW COLLAGEN AFFECTS HEALTHY HAIR GROWTH

The importance of collagen for skin health is well-documented, but given the options of collagen supplements currently promising to help with hair loss, just how much difference will a collagen drink make when it comes to encouraging fuller, stronger tresses?

'The key to maintaining healthy hair is focusing on internal factors like the vitamins, nutrients and proteins within the body,' says trichologist and Viviscal ambassador Hannah Gaboardi, who regularly treats clients with hair loss in her Nobu Portman Square clinic.

This includes collagen, a protein that naturally exists in the body. But before you start reaching for the supplements, it's important to understand just how collagen impacts the health and strength of your hair.

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The role of collagen in hair

It goes without saying but great lengths start with a healthy scalp. 'Collagen creates strength and elasticity on your scalp, leading to a healthy environment for your hair to grow,' shares Gaboardi. 'When the scalp health declines, hair can start to become dry and brittle.'

'Collagen promotes hair growth by supporting and maintaining healthy follicles. It essentially creates a healthy base layer needed for hair growth,' she tells ELLE. Adds Gaboardi: 'Collagen also promotes the build of keratin as a main building block to strengthen your hair strands.'

That said, collagen alone can only do so much. Gaboardi stresses that sufficient amounts of iron and vitamin levels are all imperative for healthy hair growth.

What happens when collagen levels dip?

The body's natural collagen production gets sluggish as we age (lifestyle choices such as regular smoking and excessive alcohol play an even bigger role in minimising collagen). Next to causing more frequent muscle aches and affecting skin laxity, it can contribute to hair loss.

'The loss of collagen can lead to visible hair loss as the hair follicles get thinner and weaker. By taking collagen, it helps to slow the loss of follicle health which naturally happens when ageing,' says Gaboardi.

Incorporating foods that boost collagen production in every meal is the first step, before considering additional supplementation.

Will taking collagen supplements improve hair loss?

The health of your hair is affected by a myriad of factors - from hormones and stress to illness and nutrient deficiencies. When in doubt, it's best to seek professional help from your healthcare provider or a trichologist to ensure there's no serious underlying causes.

Studies on whether or not collagen supplements will improve hair loss is still in its infancy, but there are anecdotal reports that chart minimised shedding and stronger strands with regular use. Most collagen supplements are also supercharged with added vitamins and minerals such as biotin and zinc, which can benefit the body as a whole, including hair health. As always, do check in with your doctor before taking any new supplements.

According to Gaboardi, collagen will not create new hair growth like other androgenic medications like minoxidil. 'It can, however, help to thicken the strands by producing keratin. Your hair shaft can benefit by using collagen, leading to healthier, thicker and shinier hair over time.'

What collagen is best for hair growth and health?

If you are keen to try a supplement, Gaboardi recommends collagen type I and III, which are found in marine or bovine sources. 'They can help with scalp health, skin elasticity and nutrient delivery to hair follicles,' she says, adding that taking collagen with vitamin C will improve absorption and storage.

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2025-05-08T15:42:13Z