The Best Collagen For Hair Growth

Are you dreaming of thick, healthy hair that radiates a fabulous glow? Well, it’s probably a good thing you’ve come across collagen supplements.

Collagen has become a buzzword in the beauty industry, and for good reason. This protein isn't just for skin—it's a game-changer for your hair health too, promising to boost its strength and shine. 

But with countless options available, how do you choose the right one to achieve that fabulous look you're after?

Well, we've done the research to bring you everything you need to know about collagen for hair growth. 

From understanding its importance to breaking down different types, we'll guide you through the top collagen supplements for hair growth on the market. 

Here, you'll learn how to choose the perfect product to boost your specific hair needs and how to maximise its benefits for that happy, healthy glow.

Whether you're combating thinning hair, breakage, or just want to boost your hair's natural radiance to fabulous new heights, we’ll equip you with the knowledge to make informed decisions with expert advice and recommendations. 

Get ready to unlock your hair's potential and step into a world of confidence and beauty. 

Your journey to healthier, more vibrant, and gloriously fabulous hair starts right here.

What is collagen, exactly? 

Collagen is a protein that acts like glue in your body, holding together skin, bones, muscles, and hair. It provides structure and strength to these tissues, helping to keep them healthy and resilient.

You could say collagen is basically the glue that keeps your skin, bones, muscles, and yes, even your hair, strong and in good health. Think of the protein as the support structure that gives your body its shape and strength. 

As you get older, your body starts producing less collagen, which is why people often start introducing collagen supplements into their routine. 

Read more: The ultimate guide to collagen (everything you need to know)

How does collagen support hair growth?

For your hair, collagen is super important because it helps make up the structure of your hair follicles – the tiny pockets where your hair grows from. 

Let’s delve deeper into collagen’s impact on hair growth and discover how it can help you achieve  longer, healthier hair.

Strengthens hair structure

Collagen is rich in amino acids, the building blocks of protein that play a crucial role in strengthening your hair's structure. 

These amino acids help create keratin, the primary protein in hair, which can lead to stronger, more resilient strands. 

Proline is also the main component of keratin. Many people turn to proline-rich collagen supplements to provide their bodies with what it needs to create more hair.

Promotes scalp health

A healthy scalp is the foundation for hair growth, and collagen can significantly contribute to scalp health. 

Collagen has antioxidant properties that help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals. This protection extends to your scalp, reducing oxidative stress that can impede hair growth. 

Boosts hair follicle regeneration

Hair growth cycles involve periods of growth, rest, and shedding. Collagen plays a role in prolonging the growth phase (anagen phase) of the hair cycle, which means your hair stays in the growing phase longer before it naturally sheds. 

By promoting healthy follicle regeneration, collagen helps you achieve thicker and fuller hair, as more follicles remain active and produce hair over time.

Improves hair elasticity

One of the benefits of collagen that is often overlooked is its ability to improve hair elasticity. 

Hair elasticity is the ability of hair to stretch and return to its original length without breaking. When hair is more elastic, it’s less prone to damage from styling and environmental factors.

Encouraging nutrient absorption

Collagen can also aid in the absorption of other nutrients that are vital for hair growth. For instance, vitamin C is considered one of the best vitamins for hair growth. 

Vitamin C is necessary for collagen production, and the vitamin also helps in the absorption of iron—a mineral that plays a critical role in hair growth..

Read more: Does collagen improve hair growth?

What are the different types of collagen? The main mane-boosting benefits revealed

When it comes to supporting hair growth, not all collagen is created equal. There are several types of collagen, each with its unique benefits. 

Let's explore the most common types—Type I, II, and III—along with the best sources of collagen and how they can help you achieve your hair goals.

Type I collagen: The beauty booster

Type I collagen is the most abundant type of collagen in the human body, found in skin, hair, nails, and bones. 

It’s often referred to as the “beauty collagen” because it plays a major role in maintaining the strength and elasticity of your skin and hair.

Type I collagen is excellent for promoting hair strength and reducing hair breakage. It also gives your hair the support it needs to grow longer, stay strong, and enhance its elasticity. This collagen is found in many beauty supplements.

Sources:
Marine collagen and bovine collagen are often found in Type I collagen supplements.

Type II collagen: The joint supporter

Type II collagen is primarily found in cartilage and is well-known for supporting joint health. While it’s less directly involved in hair growth, it does play a pretty big-hitting role in overall health.

Maintaining joint health allows you to stay active and stress-free—both important factors for overall wellbeing.

Sources:
You can find Type II collagen in supplements made from chicken or bovine cartilage.

Type III collagen: The skin and hair hero

Type III collagen often works alongside Type I and is found in high concentrations in your skin and blood vessels. It’s particularly important for maintaining the structure of your skin and the health of your hair.

Type III collagen contributes to the overall health and thickness of your hair and supports the structure of your skin and scalp. This can lead to thicker, fuller hair that feels more voluminous.

Sources:
Bovine collagen is a great source of Type III collagen. This type is often included in multi-collagen supplements that combine several types of collagen for broader benefits.

Different sources of collagen: Marine, bovine, and porcine

Understanding these different types of collagen will help you figure out which collagen source might be best suited for your hair health goals. 

Let's dive into the ocean, pastures, and farms to uncover the secrets of these collagen powerhouses.

Marine collagen

Derived from fish, marine collagen is high in Type I properties. It’s easily absorbed by the body and is particularly beneficial for hair and skin. 

People who want to focus on enhancing their hair’s strength and elasticity often choose marine collagen.

Read more: Bovine vs Marine Collagen: which is better?

Bovine collagen

Sourced from cows, bovine collagen contains both Type I and Type III collagen. This combination makes it a powerhouse for overall beauty and health, supporting both hair growth and skin vitality. 

Bovine collagen is a popular choice for those looking to improve the thickness and strength of their hair.

Porcine collagen

Porcine collagen, made from pigs, is rich in Type I and III collagen. It’s similar to bovine collagen in its benefits, but it’s less commonly used. However, it still offers great support for skin, hair, and overall health.

FYI: Once you figure out what you want the collagen supplement for, it will be easy to decide which type of collagen is needed to help you achieve your goals.

Factors to consider when choosing a collagen supplement

Choosing the right collagen supplement can feel overwhelming with so many options on the market. But don’t worry—we’re here to help guide you through the key factors to consider so you can pick the perfect supplement to support your hair health and growth journey.

Here’s a checklist of ingredients for your supplements…

When choosing a collagen supplement, it’s important to pay attention to the additional ingredients that can enhance the benefits for your hair.

• Biotin: Often called the “hair growth vitamin,” biotin is a popular ingredient in many collagen supplements. It helps strengthen hair, supports growth, and can even improve the texture of your hair.
• Keratin: Keratin is the protein that makes up your hair, so it makes sense that a supplement containing keratin can help enhance your hair’s strength and resilience. 
• Hyaluronic acid: Hyaluronic acid is a powerhouse for hydration, and it’s just as good for your hair as it is for your skin. It helps to lock in moisture, ensuring your scalp and hair stay hydrated.

These ingredients work in tandem with collagen to ensure your hair is in optimal health to grow, strengthen and look fabulous! 

Forms of collagen supplements

Collagen supplements come in various forms, and each has its own set of advantages. But what’s important is finding the best form that suits your lifestyle and preferences. 

Let’s take a look…

Powder

• Versatile

• Usually offers a higher dosage of collagen per serving

Capsules

• Convenient, can take them on the go

• Tasteless

• Usually contains lower doses of collagen in comparison to powders

Gummies

• Tasty

• Can contain added sugars

Liquid

• Quickly absorbed by the body

• Easy to mix into drinks or take on its own

• Often comes in pre-measured doses, making it simple to use

Different forms of beauty supplements come with their pros and cons, like the ones that are listed above. 

Before purchasing a supplement, assess whether it will be easy to implement into your daily routine.

Collagen Quality indicators

When it comes to collagen supplements, quality is key. You don’t want to spend a fortune on a product that doesn’t perform, so here’s what you should look for to suss out whether a supplement is of high-quality or not. 

Here are some indications that you’ve got a good high-quality product on your hands:

Hydrolyzed collagen

Look for “hydrolyzed collagen”, also known as collagen peptides. This form of collagen has been broken down into smaller, more easily absorbed molecules, ensuring that your body can effectively utilise it.

Grass-fed and pasture-raised

If you’re choosing a bovine collagen supplement, it’s best to go for products that are grass-fed and pasture-raised. 

These supplements are typically free from hormones and antibiotics, ensuring you’re getting a cleaner, more natural product.

Bioavailability

Bioavailability refers to how well your body can absorb and use the collagen. Hydrolyzed collagen is generally more bioavailable, meaning it’s easier for your body to digest and put to good use. 

Some supplements also include ingredients like vitamin C, which enhances collagen absorption.

Additional things to consider…

• Taste and flavour preferences
• Serving size and dosage
• Transparency and third-party testing
• Cost

It’s not impossible to find a well-rounded product that has all things necessary for your hair to thrive.

A high-quality type I collagen supplement, sustainably sourced, enriched with vitamin C, with two exquisite flavours to choose from? You got it! 

YourBiology Collagen+ gives your body the nutrients it needs for a youthful glow, from your tips to your toes.

The supplement provides you with…

• Luscious skin

• Lustrous hair

• Resilient nails

• Robust gut health

• Graceful strength 

• Swift recovery

Restore your body’s supply of collagen and achieve firm, smooth, supple and strong hair, skin and nails with YourBiology collagen+.

Best collagen supplements: Expert recommendations

If you’re looking for expert recommendations for the best collagen supplements for hair growth in 2024, you’re in the right place. 

Stick with us as we run you through the scientifically backed supplements across various categories—you might just find what you’ve been searching for all along.

Best collagen for hair growth

• Product: Vitauthority Multi Collagen Peptides
• Key ingredients: Collagen types I, II, III, V, X from grass-fed beef, wild-caught fish, eggshell membrane, and more. Includes hyaluronic acid and vitamin C.
• Benefits: Supports hair growth, skin elasticity, and joint health. Hyaluronic acid aids in scalp hydration.
• Customer reviews: Praised for improving hair thickness and growth with consistent use.
• Price: $34.99 for a 40-day supply. Available on Vitauthority's website and Amazon.

Best collagen capsules for hair growth

• Product: Humanz Marine Collagen Capsules
• Key ingredients: Hydrolyzed marine collagen (sourced from wild-caught fish), Vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid.
• Benefits: Promotes thicker and stronger hair growth, supports scalp hydration, and enhances overall skin and nail health due to the high bioavailability of marine collagen combined with the collagen-boosting effects of vitamin C and the moisturising properties of hyaluronic acid.
• Customer reviews: Highly rated with consistent praise for noticeable hair improvement, including increased thickness and reduced hair shedding. Average rating of around 4.5/5 stars.
• Price: Approximately $45 for a one-month supply (60 capsules).

Where to buy: Available on Amazon.

Best non-collagen supplement for vegans

• Product: Jarrow Formulas Biotin 5000 mcg Veggie Capsules
• Key Ingredients: 5000 mcg of Biotin (Vitamin B7).
• Benefits: Supports healthy hair growth by enhancing keratin production, which strengthens hair, skin, and nails. Also aids in metabolism and energy production.
• Customer reviews: Highly rated for its effectiveness in promoting thicker, stronger hair, with consistent positive feedback from users on Amazon.
• Price: Approximately $12-$15 for 100 capsules (100-day supply).
• Where to Buy: Available on Amazon.

Best collagen liquid for hair growth

• Product: Shiseido The Collagen
• Key ingredients: Low molecular fish collagen, vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, lingonberry extract.
• Benefits: Enhances hair and skin health; low molecular weight for better absorption.
• Customer reviews: Known for its quality and effectiveness, especially in the Asian market.
• Price: Approximately $25 for a 4.44 oz bag. Available on Shiseido's website.

Best collagen gummies for hair growth

• Product: Nature’s Bounty Hair, Skin & Nails with Collagen & Biotin Gummies
• Key ingredients: 2,500 mcg biotin, 100 mg collagen.
• Benefits: Supports hair strength and growth with a delicious, easy-to-consume format.
• Customer reviews: Well-loved with a 4.5/5 rating from over 20,000 reviews.
• Price: $10 for an 80-count bottle. Available on Amazon and local pharmacies.

These products have been highlighted for their effectiveness in promoting hair growth, catering to different dietary preferences, and being environmentally conscious. Always consider your specific needs and consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.

How to incorporate collagen into your daily routine

Adding collagen supplements to your daily routine is a great way to boost your overall well-being and support your skin, joints, and more. 

So, let’s turn this simple addition into a powerful habit that’ll leave you feeling fantastic.

Start small and stay consistent

Begin by adding collagen to a daily ritual like your morning coffee or smoothie. Flipping the script on your routine makes it easier to stick with and empowers you to take charge of your health.

Find your favourite form

Collagen comes in powders, capsules, or liquid. Experiment to see what fits best into your lifestyle, whether it’s mixed into a smoothie or taken with evening tea.

Pair it with a nutrient boost

Enhance collagen’s benefits by pairing it with a nutritious meal, like a fruit-packed smoothie or protein-rich snack. This will make you feel epic in every way while boosting your overall health.

Set a reminder

Consistency is key, so set a daily reminder or leave a note where you’ll see it. Make it part of your morning or bedtime routine.

Celebrate the wins

Collagen FAQs

Do collagen supplements help hair growth?

Collagen supplements may support hair growth by providing amino acids that help strengthen hair and promote healthier strands. 

While they can be beneficial, results vary, and they work best as part of a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle.

Which type of collagen is best for hair growth?

For hair growth, Type I collagen is considered the best since it’s the most abundant in your skin, hair, and nails. 

Marine collagen is a popular source of Type I collagen and is often recommended for boosting hair strength and health.

What is better for thinning hair, biotin or collagen?

Biotin is great for improving hair strength and thickness, while collagen helps maintain healthy hair by supporting overall scalp and hair health. Combine biotin and collagen for the best results.

Does collagen have side effects?

Collagen is generally safe, but some people might experience mild side effects like an upset stomach or a bad taste in their mouth. It’s always a good idea to start with a small amount and see how your body reacts.

It’s time to flip the script and get your youthful glow

Now you’re equipped to make an informed decision about using collagen for hair growth. Collagen offers key benefits like strengthening hair follicles, providing essential amino acids, improving scalp health, and potentially increasing hair thickness and volume. While not a miracle solution, it can be a valuable ally in your hair health journey.

For best results, choose a supplement with types of collagen that caters to your goals from reputable brands. 

Remember to pair your collagen supplement with a balanced diet and gentle hair care for optimal outcomes.

Here's to your hair health journey! May your future be filled with great hair days and the confidence that comes with them.