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Does Collagen Help Hair Growth?

Sara Harcharik Perkins, MD

Reviewed by Sara Harcharik Perkins, MD

Written by Jill Seladi-Schulman, PhD

Published 12/12/2021

Updated 04/24/2025

Let’s talk about the beauty industry’s favorite protein: Collagen. As proteins go, this one is big business — and it’s the most abundant protein in your body. Collagen supports your skin’s elasticity and helps it look healthier. It’s also an important component of bones, muscles, tendons, and cartilage.

But what about hair? Does collagen help hair growth? There’s not a lot of evidence to support collagen as a hair growth solution. That said, collagen may come with some hair benefits, like thicker hair. But research-backed hair loss solutions are your best bet for a lusher mane.

Read on to learn more about collagen and hair growth. Plus, get a breakdown of the science-backed hair loss solutions out there.

On a basic level, collagen helps provide structure and support to a variety of tissues in your body. But, the best place to start our conversation about collagen is its role in skin health.

Healthy skin is made up of many parts, including structural proteins. There are three that arguably matter the most: collagen, elastin, and keratin.  

Keratin is basically your body’s equivalent to armor — it’s a hard, barrier protein that protects you from things like viruses and bacteria. 

Elastin is more like a mesh that fastens your cells together, and returns them to their original positions so they don’t get “stuck” when your skin stretches. 

Collagen, meanwhile, is the largest connective tissue component in your skin (generally speaking). It helps to keep your skin firm and protect it from damage.

Your body naturally produces collagen. And you can get it from the food you eat. Foods that contain natural collagen include meat, poultry, fish, and bone broth in the form of gelatin. 

But how much does collage intake affect your cosmetic collagen levels? It’s unclear. Scientists haven’t fully established the link between what you eat and how your skin (and hair) looks. 

But there is research suggesting that increased collagen intake may help support joint health by reducing joint pain.

If you’re wondering about the benefits of collagen for hair growth because you’ve been seeing hair loss (say in the shower drain in each morning) — don’t worry.  

The typical person’s head has more than 100,000 hairs and sheds around 100 strands a day on average.

Your hair’s growth cycle is broken into three phases, and while they can be interrupted by a number of conditions and factors, collagen deficiency isn’t typically one of them 

That said, collagen production does naturally decrease as you age. This can manifest as skin aging (think sagging skin and wrinkles) and could potentially lead to thinning hair.

But, decreasing collagen levels alone can’t explain most hair loss. So what actually causes female hair loss?

If you’re stressing over hair thinning or increased shedding, you may be wondering if collagen supplements will help you get back to a fuller mane. So does collagen help hair grow?

Collagen and Hair Growth

Collagen isn’t the main actor when it comes to hair growth. Instead, it plays more of a supporting role.

The main amino acids, or building blocks, of collagen are glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline. Glycine and proline are also common amino acids in keratin.

Remember keratin from earlier? As in the skin, keratin is the main structural protein in hair and helps to protect it from damage.

There’s not a ton of science to back a link between collagen supplements and healthy hair growth. But, some early research has shown benefits worth exploring. 

Animal Studies

Laboratory studies in mice have found that marine collagens, which are collagen peptides derived from fish, may increase hair growth. One study even found that oral collagen supplementation boosted certain types of keratin.

Another mouse study observed that a higher dose of collagen peptides had a positive effect on hair growth similar to finasteride, a common treatment for male pattern hair loss.

While it’s nice that collagen supplements may help mice grow hair, what about humans.

Collagen for Hair Growth in Humans

One 2024 study looked at the effect of collagen peptides on human hair follicle cells grown in a lab. It found that collagen boosted the growth of the cells and stimulated them to produce various growth factors.

Results from another 2024 study in a laboratory model of human hair follicles found that collagen from fish or cattle boosted the growth of stem cells in the hair follicle. Fish-derived collagen also increased the length of the anagen phase of the hair growth cycle, which is when hair is actively growing.

A 2022 study found that an oral supplement containing collagen improved hair density in participants with telogen effluvium.

A 2023 study reported that collagen-containing supplements improved the effectiveness of hair loss treatments for androgenetic alopecia or telogen effluvium.

There’s a disclaimer for these two studies, though. In addition to collagen, the supplements also contained other ingredients, like iron, zinc, selenium, and B vitamins, all of which are also important for hair health. Because of this, it’s hard to tell exactly how much collagen contributed to the results.

Collagen also has antioxidant properties. Because of this, it’s possible that increasing collagen intake may protect your scalp and hair follicles from free radicals and reduce oxidative stress. This may aid in creating a healthy environment for hairs to grow.

Indeed, a 2024 study found that a hydrolyzed collagen supplement also containing vitamin C had benefits for the skin and scalp, including an increased hair count.

So the TL;DR here is that some studies show potential benefits of collagen for hair growth. But, more research is still needed.

At the end of the day, if you need to address hair loss concerns, there are better ways to do it. Let’s cover these now. 

Collagen isn’t really a treatment for hair loss. There are much better, dedicated hair loss treatment options for women on the market right now. 

Take minoxidil, for example. Topical minoxidil is FDA-approved to treat female pattern hair loss and is available over the counter in a 2% solution and 5% foam for hair regrowth. It works by increasing the blood flow to your hair follicles, which can encourage them to grow hair again. 

Other proven hair loss treatments for women include:

Nutritional deficiencies can also contribute to some types of hair loss. If you have a deficiency, consider dietary changes and potentially adding a supplement (like hers’ Biotin Gummy Multivitamins) to your daily routine.

Collagen can indirectly benefit your hair, but it’s not a replacement for research-backed hair loss solutions like minoxidil.

Let’s recap what we know about collagen for hair growth:

  • Collagen supports skin and hair health. Your body produces less collagen as you age, which changes the look and feel of your skin and hair.

  • Collagen might support hair health. But the research in humans is a bit thin. 

  • Other proven hair loss treatments are a better choice. Minoxidil, finasteride, and spironolactone are backed by more evidence than collagen.

If you’re experiencing hair loss, your best bet is to consult with a healthcare professional about your hair issues. 

A great way to start is to make an appointment at a dermatology practice near you. In addition to treating skin conditions, dermatologists can also help with medical conditions that impact your hair and nails.

If you’re looking for more support, there are hair care products specially designed to help you thicken your hair. You also may want to check out hers’ Hair Growth Kit to narrow your options.  

24 Sources

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  2. Arias EM, et al. (2022). Targeted nutritional supplementation for telogen effluvium: Multicenter study on efficacy of a hydrolyzed collagen, vitamin-, and mineral-based induction and maintenance treatment. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9069902/
  3. Collagen. (2021). https://nutritionsource.hsph.harvard.edu/collagen/
  4. Do you have hair loss or hair shedding? (n.d.). https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/hair-loss/insider/shedding
  5. Fabbrocini G, et al. (2018). Female pattern hair loss: A clinical, pathophysiologic, and therapeutic review. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6322157/
  6. Guo EL, et al. (2017). Diet and hair loss: Effects of nutrient deficiency and supplement use. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5315033/
  7. Ho C-Y, et al. (2023). Female pattern hair loss: An overview with focus on the genetics. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10379895/
  8. Hoover E, et al. (2023). Physiology, hair. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK499948/
  9. Hughes EC, et al. (2024). Telogen effluvium. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK430848/
  10. Hwang SB, et al. (2022). Hair-growth-promoting effects of the fish collagen peptide in human dermal papilla cells and C57BL/6 mice modulating Wnt/β-Catenin and BMP signaling pathways. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9569759/
  11. Kim Y, et al. (2023). Low molecular weight collagen peptide (LMWCP) promotes hair growth by activating the Wnt/GSK-3β/β-Catenin signaling pathway. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10840484/
  12. Lee JO, et al. (2024). AP collagen peptides (APCPs) promote hair growth by activating the GSK-3β/β-catenin pathway and improve hair condition. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39031460/
  13. Martel JL, et al. (2024). Anatomy, hair follicle. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470321/
  14. Martinez-Puig D, et al. (2023). Collagen supplementation for joint health: The link between composition and scientific knowledge. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10058045/
  15. Milani M, et al. (2023). Efficacy and tolerability of an oral supplement containing amino acids, iron, selenium, and marine hydrolyzed collagen in subjects with hair loss (androgenetic alopecia, AGA or FAGA or telogen effluvium). A prospective, randomized, 3‐month, controlled, assessor‐blinded study. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10240182/
  16. National Cancer Institute. SEER Training Modules. (n.d.). Layers of skin. https://training.seer.cancer.gov/melanoma/anatomy/layers.html
  17. Pappelbaum KI, et al. (2024). Revealing novel insights on how oral supplementation with collagen peptides may prevent hair loss: Lessons from the human hair follicle organ culture. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1756464624001269
  18. Patel P, et al. (2023). Minoxidil. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK482378/
  19. Reilly DM, et al. (2024). A clinical trial shows improvement in skin collagen, hydration, elasticity, wrinkles, scalp, and hair condition following 12-week oral intake of a supplement containing hydrolysed collagen. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11254459/
  20. Strnad P, et al. (2011). Unique amino acid signatures that are evolutionarily conserved distinguish simple-type, epidermal and hair keratins. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3258107/
  21. Suchonwanit P, et al. (2019). Minoxidil and its use in hair disorders: A review. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6691938/
  22. Trehan A, et al. (2024). Efficacy and safety of skin radiance collagen on skin and hair matrix: A placebo-controlled clinical trial in healthy human subjects. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10942009/
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Editorial Standards

Hims & Hers has strict sourcing guidelines to ensure our content is accurate and current. We rely on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We strive to use primary sources and refrain from using tertiary references. See a mistake? Let us know at [email protected]!

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The information contained herein is not a substitute for and should never be relied upon for professional medical advice. Always talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of any treatment. Learn more about our editorial standards here.

Sara Harcharik Perkins, MD

Sara Harcharik Perkins, MD, FAAD is a board-certified dermatologist and Assistant Professor in the Department of Dermatology at the Yale School of Medicine. She is the director of the Teledermatology Program, as well as the Associate Program Director of the Yale Dermatology Residency Training Program. Her research focuses on telemedicine and medical education. Her practice includes general medical dermatology, high-risk skin cancer, and procedural dermatology.

Dr. Perkins completed her undergraduate education at the University of Pennsylvania and obtained her medical degree at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. She completed her medical internship at the Massachusetts General Hospital, followed by residency training in dermatology at Yale University, after which she joined the faculty.

Dr. Perkins has been a member of the Hims & Hers Medical Advisory Board since 2018. Her commentary has been featured in NBC News, Real Simple, The Cut, and Yahoo, among others.

Publications:

  • Ahmad, M., Christensen, S. R., & Perkins, S. H. (2023). The impact of COVID-19 on the dermatologic care of nonmelanoma skin cancers among solid organ transplant recipients. JAAD international, 13, 98–99. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10518328/

  • Ahmad, M., & Perkins, S. H. (2023). Learning dermatology in medical school: analysis of dermatology topics tested in popular question banks. Clinical and experimental dermatology, 48(4), 361–363. https://academic.oup.com/ced/article-abstract/48/4/361/6869515?redirectedFrom=fulltext&login=false

  • Belzer, A., Leasure, A. C., Cohen, J. M., & Perkins, S. H. (2023). The association of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma and basal cell carcinoma with solid organ transplantation: a cross-sectional study of the All Of Us Research Program. International journal of dermatology, 62(10), e564–e566. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/ijd.16700

  • Ahmad, M., Marson, J. W., Litchman, G. H., Perkins, S. H., & Rigel, D. S. (2022). Usage and perceptions of teledermatology in 2021: a survey of dermatologists. International journal of dermatology, 61(7), e235–e237. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/ijd.16209

  • Asabor, E. N., Bunick, C. G., Cohen, J. M., & Perkins, S. H. (2021). Patient and physician perspectives on teledermatology at an academic dermatology department amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 84(1), 158–161. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7491373/

  • Belzer, A., Olamiju, B., Antaya, R. J., Odell, I. D., Bia, M., Perkins, S. H., & Cohen, J. M. (2021). A novel medical student initiative to enhance provision of teledermatology in a resident continuity clinic during the COVID-19 pandemic: a pilot study. International journal of dermatology, 60(1), 128–129. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7753449/

  • Cohen, J. M., Bunick, C. G., & Perkins, S. H. (2020). The new normal: An approach to optimizing and combining in-person and telemedicine visits to maximize patient care. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 83(5), e361–e362. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7316470/

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