It’s no secret that our hair can be negatively affected by various factors such as heat exposure, water quality and pollution, and can also benefit from high-quality products, a balanced diet – and collagen. Here, we asked two experts to break down how the latter can support your clients on their healthy hair journeys…
What is Collagen?
“Collagen is a vital protein found throughout the body, particularly in the skin, bones, tendons, and ligaments. It provides structural support and plays a critical role in maintaining the integrity and elasticity of these tissues,” explains Dr Munir Somji, one of the leading doctors within the field of aesthetics, who specialises in male and female hair restoration.
There are five types of collagen, which Dr Kouremada Zioga, hair surgeon and hair expert for Vidal Sassoon, at the House of Sassoon London, breaks down below:
Type 1- Responsible for skin and bone strength and forms around 90% of the total collagen.
Type 2- Responsible for the elasticity in cartilage to support joints.
Type 3- Responsible for muscles and organ health.
Type 4- Found in the layers of skin and supports firmness in the skin.
Type 5- Responsible for tissue formation for hair, skin and eyes.
Does Everyone Produce Collagen?
As we age, our bodies (and their ability to perform certain functions) decline. This is particularly true when it comes to our ability to produce collagen, with Dr Munir explaining: “As you age, your body starts to naturally produce less collagen. After the age of 20, the dermis layer produces 1% less collagen each year.” He also notes that some people may also have collagen deficiency, while diet and the menopause can also impact collagen levels. Common symptoms of low collagen can include joint pain, dull skin and brittle hair and nails, according to Dr Kouremada.
What are the Benefits of Collagen on Hair?
For those looking to boost their collagen levels, consuming collagen-rich foods or considering collagen supplements are two possible solutions. But when it comes to hair health, why is this worth considering?
“Especially as we age, our body's collagen production decreases, leading to hair breakage and split ends due to the loss of elasticity,” says Dr Kouremada. “Collagen can help address these issues by providing strength and increasing the moisture content of the hair. Additionally, collagen has antioxidant properties that can combat free radicals, potentially preventing premature greying of hair. Furthermore, collagen's potential to counteract the effects of skin ageing may contribute to better hair growth and decreased thinning.”
Dr Kouremada also highlights that although research on the impact of collagen on hair thinning is limited, it is known that collagen provides amino acids such as proline, which is a main component of keratin – the protein that hair is made of. As such, consuming proline-rich collagen may provide your body with the building blocks it needs to create hair.
However, as collagen can be found naturally throughout the body, it stands to reason that upping your collagen levels may have other benefits, too. “Collagen supplements offer various additional benefits, for example, they may help improve skin elasticity and hydration, reducing the appearance of wrinkles,” says Dr Munir. “For joint health, collagen can support cartilage, potentially reducing joint pain and stiffness. Additionally, there are publications which show that collagen supplements may promote better gut health by supporting the lining of the digestive tract. They can also support nail strength and growth, and improve overall bone density.”
