It’s not groundbreaking news that collagen is necessary for radiant, healthy, plump skin, but did you know that it also plays a factor in our hair health? And unfortunately, once we reach our 30s, our natural collagen levels start depleting more drastically, which can lead to changes in our skin and hair. The good news is that there are ways to supplement that lost collagen for stronger, thicker hair, that may even promote hair growth—and our favorite is liquid collagen (you’ll see why below). Here, we get into everything there is to know about collagen and hair, according to the pros.

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Before we get into its uses for hair loss, let us briefly go over what collagen is. Collagen is a naturally-made protein that supports many functions in our body, including healthy hair and skin. It makes our hair stronger and more supported and helps keep our follicles intact. However, our bodies’ natural collagen production depletes with age.

“Collagen is rich in amino acids essential for the production of keratin, a key structural protein in hair,” explains Christina Han, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and Medical Director at XYON Health. Keratin is another key component that helps our hair stay strong, shiny and healthy.

While collagen is certainly important for our hair’s health, it’s important to note that the protein alone won’t lead to a healthy head of hair. “A diet rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly biotin, zinc and vitamins C and E, can also enhance hair health and reduce oxidative stress, which helps hair grow thicker and stronger,” says Dr. Han. “Essentially there isn’t one specific nutrient that is the ‘magic bullet’ but the overall recommendation of a full and balanced diet goes a long way when it comes to a healthy foundation for hair growth.”

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If you’re struggling with hair loss or hair thinning, supplementing your natural collagen with collagen supplements, liquid collagen or other forms of the protein could potentially help. But doctors aren’t convinced that lower collagen levels specifically cause hair loss.

“There is some medical evidence that supplementation of collagen can be beneficial to hair, however, does a decline in collagen lead to hair loss? This question is not fully validated yet,” affirms Dr Han. “What we do know is that limiting overall protein intake can lead to hair loss. Whether this is specific to collagen alone is not known. More likely is the fact that protein in general is needed to help sustain and grow hair. This makes sense because our hair is made of keratin, which is a protein.”

However, that’s not to say that collagen can’t help your hair. While it likely isn’t the end-all be-all solution to hair regrowth, it can be a hair growth aid. “When it comes to hair, there is some evidence that supplementation of collagen peptides may prevent hair loss by prolonging the growth phase of the hair cycle and maintaining the stem cells within the follicle,” Dr. Han tells us.

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As mentioned previously, when it comes to increasing hair growth, collagen provides essential amino acids that are needed as building blocks for hair and also helps to strengthen strands. “Think of collagen like a stake for a tent that is firmly holding it in place,” explains Roger Kapoor, MD, dermatologist and Vice President of Beloit Memorial Hospital in Wisconsin. “Collagen literally helps anchor hair strands in the scalp.”

Dr. Kapoor advises his patients to strongly consider liquid collagen because it is broken down into small proteins called peptides, unlike powdered collagen. “When it comes to comparing liquid to powdered collagen, visualize those bite-sized candy bars versus full-sized bars—the mini ones are easier to eat and digest,” says Dr. Kapoor. “In liquid collagen, these bite-sized peptides are more easily absorbed by the body, unlike powdered or ‘full-sized’ collagen.”

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For a liquid collagen to try, look to Manna Liposomal Collagen Peptides Liquid. It contains quality collagen peptides from grass-fed cows, as well as hyaluronic acid and vitamin E, both of which help boost hydration, improving hair health.

If you’re familiar with thyroid conditions, you likely are already aware that thyroid disease commonly causes hair loss. Does liquid collagen really help boost hair growth for women with thyroid issues? Yes, says Dr. Kapoor. “Hair is like the body’s visible thermometer and can pick up on subtle shifts in our internal health.” He notes that this is how hair loss and Hashimoto’s can go hand-in-hand. And as discussed, liquid collagen may help keep those strands in place and minimize hair loss, which can be extremely helpful for those with thyroid conditions.

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As a final note, the most important thing for any woman interested in using liquid collagen for hair loss is to be sure to take it consistently. But further, you need patience! “As important as it is to be consistent, it’s also important to be patient,” stresses Dr. Kapoor. “Patience is key, as is remembering that hair only grows about a half an inch a month.” So stick with it to see results.

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