Collagen is often promoted for its benefits to skin, hair, and nails, but does it truly support hair growth?

Well, new research has uncovered evidence that not all collagen powders are the same, and specific types may offer more significant benefits for hair health than others. This article explores how collagen supports hair health and may contribute to hair growth, strength and thickness.

Understanding Collagen

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body, providing structural support to skin, bones, muscles, tendons, and hair. It serves as a scaffold that maintains the shape and integrity of cells and tissues. There are several types of collagens, with Types I, II, and III being the most common:

• Type I Collagen: Found in skin, tendons, and bones, supporting elasticity and strength.
• Type II Collagen: Found in cartilage, crucial for joint health.
• Type III Collagen: Often found alongside Type I, contributing to the structure of muscles, organs, and arteries.

These types of collagens play a role in providing structural support and resilience to the skin and scalp, indirectly promoting a healthier environment for hair growth. 

The Link Between Collagen and Hair Health

Collagen plays an essential role in creating the optimal conditions for hair health through several mechanisms:

• Nutrient Absorption: Collagen is rich in amino acids like glycine and proline, essential for keratin production—the protein that makes up hair. Collagen supplementation may enhance nutrient absorption in the gut, ensuring the delivery of vitamins and minerals necessary for hair growth.
• Hormonal Balance: Collagen may help maintain hormonal balance, particularly by supporting gut health. A healthy gut can prevent hormone imbalances that may contribute to hair loss.

Benefits of Collagen for Hair

Although there is still much research to be done, recent scientific studies have uncovered several potential benefits for hair health:

Increased Hair Growth

Recent research has shed light on the potential of certain types of collagens to promote hair growth. A study from the Department of Food and Nutrition at Chung-Ang University in Korea, published in the Journal of Molecular Science in October 2022, found that collagen peptides (CPs) extracted from tilapia fish specifically act as a nutritional supplement for hair loss prevention and hair regrowth.

The researchers demonstrated that Tilapia collagen peptides significantly enhanced hair regrowth and the proliferation of human hair cells. Remarkably, these peptides outperformed Finasteride—a popular pharmaceutical for hair growth—without its harmful side effects. The study found that Tilapia CPs increased hair follicle size and thickness by promoting blood circulation and reducing cytokines, substances that can cause hair follicle death.

Additionally, Tilapia CPs had a 1.3 times higher expression of VEGF, a growth factor that increases follicle size and hair thickness, compared to the Finasteride group. The findings suggest that Tilapia CPs can stimulate hair growth more effectively than conventional treatments. The leading brand of collagen, CollagenX, uses collagen sourced from Tilapia fish.

Thicker and Stronger Hair

Collagen contributes to thicker and stronger hair by providing essential building blocks for keratin production. Collagen peptides, especially those from Tilapia, have a low molecular weight, enhancing their bioavailability and absorption. These peptides, composed of polypeptides with different molecular weights of less than 5000 Daltons, promote cell proliferation and hyaluronic acid synthesis in human dermal fibroblasts, which supports hair health and strength.

Improved Hair Elasticity

Collagen helps improve hair elasticity by strengthening the hair shaft, making it less prone to damage and breakage. This is particularly beneficial for individuals who frequently style or colour their hair, as increased flexibility can lead to healthier-looking hair and easier styling.

Reduced Hair Loss 

Tilapia CPs also demonstrated potential in reducing hair loss. By improving blood circulation to the hair follicles and prolonging the growth phase of the hair cycle, these collagen peptides can combat hair thinning and support hair follicle health. The small molecular size of Tilapia CPs, like those found in CollagenX, enhances their effectiveness in the body, helping to prevent hair loss more effectively.

Enhanced Hair Shine and Lustre

Collagen contributes to healthier hair cuticles, which can enhance the hair’s appearance by making it shinier and smoother. The structural support provided by collagen peptides helps maintain moisture levels, resulting in a more vibrant and lustrous look.

Integrating Collagen into Your Daily Routine for Hair Growth

To maximize collagen's potential benefits for hair, consider incorporating it into your daily routine:

1. Recap of Key Benefits: Collagen can support hair health by promoting hair thickness, strength, elasticity, and shine while reducing hair loss.
2. Encouragement to Use Collagen Supplements: Adding a collagen supplement, such as CollagenX hydrolyzed collagen sourced from Tilapia, to your daily diet can effectively support hair health. CollagenX fish collagen is highly bioavailable due to its small particle size of just 2000 Daltons.

Tips for Maximizing Collagen Absorption:

• Pair collagen supplements with Vitamin C to enhance collagen synthesis.
• Maintain a balanced diet rich in protein, healthy fats, and micronutrients.
• Stay hydrated to support collagen structure and function.

Healthy hair starts from within. Recent studies emphasize the effectiveness of specific collagen types, such as Tilapia collagen peptides, in promoting hair growth and overall hair health. By boosting the availability of key amino acids involved in keratin and collagen production, it is possible to combat hair loss, stimulate new hair growth, and improve hair quality. Choosing high-quality collagen supplements like CollagenX can help you achieve healthier, stronger, and more vibrant hair.