Does Collagen Help Hair Growth - What Does The Research Say
“Bad hair days are just like Mondays – nobody likes them, but we all have to deal with them.” This statement perfectly sums up the significance of hair health in our lives. The appearance and quality of our hair can significantly impact our self-esteem and confidence. It’s no surprise that we jump on the bandwagon to try out the latest hair growth remedies when we hear about them. One such remedy is collagen – a protein that’s been touted for its numerous health benefits, including hair growth. But does collagen really help hair growth? Let’s take a closer look at what the research says.
Collagen is a protein that makes up a significant portion of our skin, bones, muscles, and tendons. It’s also a major component of our hair, nails, and teeth. Collagen is essential for maintaining the structure and strength of these tissues, which is why it’s become such a popular supplement in recent years.
Studies have shown that collagen supplements can help improve skin elasticity, reduce wrinkles, and increase nail growth. But what about hair growth? Can collagen supplements really make your hair grow faster and stronger?
The short answer is yes, collagen can help improve hair growth, but the evidence is limited. One study published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences showed that fish collagen peptide promoted hair growth by modulating the Wnt/β-catenin and BMP signaling pathways, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic agent for hair loss.
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Induces hair follicle development
Another study examines the effects of TGF-β2 and collagen on human dermal papilla cells and their role in spheroid formation and anti-aging. The results suggest that both TGF-β2 and collagen are essential in promoting spheroid formation and enhancing the anti-aging properties of dermal papilla cells. The findings may have implications for the development of therapies for hair loss and aging.
While these results are promising, it’s important to note that more research is needed to fully understand the effects of collagen on hair growth.
Provides amino acids for hair growth
That being said, collagen does have other benefits that can indirectly improve hair growth. For example, collagen is high in amino acids, which are essential building blocks for healthy hair. Amino acids like proline and glycine are needed to produce keratin, the protein that makes up our hair strands. By supplementing with collagen, you’re providing your body with the necessary building blocks to support healthy hair growth.
A study published in 2022 aimed to determine the efficacy of a cosmetic product (containing glycine, nicotinic acid hexyl ester, polyphenols, zinc and caffeine) in reducing the telogen rate and increasing hair density in men with androgenetic alopecia. The results showed that the use of the cosmetic product significantly increased hair density compared to the vehicle control. The study concluded that the cosmetic product was effective in improving hair density and reducing the telogen (resting phase of the hair growth cycle) rate in men with androgenetic alopecia.
Provides choline for hair strength
Collagen may also indirectly support hair tensile strength by providing choline. A study by Wickett et al. found that oral intake of choline-stabilized orthosilicic acid, a compound that contains both choline and silica, significantly increased hair tensile strength in women with fine hair. Since collagen contains proline, an amino acid that is a precursor to choline, supplementing with collagen may also provide the necessary building blocks for choline synthesis and support healthy hair tensile strength.
Improves gut health for nutrient absorption
Additionally, collagen has been shown to improve gut health and digestion, which can also indirectly improve hair growth. A healthy gut means better nutrient absorption, which is essential for healthy hair growth. By improving gut health, you’re ensuring that your body is getting the nutrients it needs to support healthy hair growth.
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Collagen as an antioxidant
Hair follicles can be damaged by free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can cause harm to cells and tissues in the body. These free radicals can come from various sources, including pollution, cigarette smoke, and UV radiation from the sun. When free radicals attack hair follicles, they can cause damage to the hair shaft, which can result in hair loss, breakage, and thinning.
Collagen, however, may act as an antioxidant that can fight free radicals and prevent hair damage. Antioxidants are molecules that can neutralize free radicals by donating an electron to them, thereby preventing them from causing damage to cells and tissues. Collagen is rich in antioxidants like vitamin C, which is known for its ability to fight free radicals and protect the skin and hair from damage.
The cells responsible for producing hair color can be susceptible to damage caused by free radicals, which may hasten the graying process. However, collagen, being a powerful antioxidant, has the potential to combat this damage and slow down the graying of hair. Collagen works by neutralizing the harmful effects of free radicals. By reducing the oxidative stress on hair cells, collagen can help preserve the natural color of hair and delay the onset of graying. It is important to note that while collagen may have this potential benefit, more research is needed to fully understand its effects on hair color and graying.
By supplementing with collagen, you may be able to provide your body with the necessary antioxidants to fight free radicals to maintain the health of your hair follicles and prevent hair loss, graying, breakage, and thinning.
That being said, there’s no harm in trying out collagen supplements for hair growth, especially when combined with a healthy lifestyle. Our CogniTune Pure Hydrolyzed Collagen Powder is an excellent option for those looking to supplement with collagen. Our grass-fed collagen powder is Keto and Paleo-friendly, non-GMO, gluten-free, and soy-free with zero carbs and zero sugar. Each scoop provides 11g of types 1 and 3 collagen peptides plus 18 amino acids. Another good option is our Multi Collagen Capsules with Biotin, Hyaluronic Acid, and Vitamin C – bonus ingredients that also help promote healthy hair, skin, and nails.
In addition to supplementing with collagen, there are other things you can do to support healthy hair growth. Eating a well-balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals like biotin, vitamin D, and iron can help support healthy hair growth. Getting regular exercise and managing stress can also help improve overall hair health.
To conclude, while the research on collagen and hair growth is limited, there is evidence to suggest that collagen supplements can improve hair growth, strength and thickness. Collagen is a key component of our hair, and supplementing with it can provide the necessary building blocks for healthy hair growth.
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