Collagen Peptides for Hair: Benefits and How to Use

As we age, our bodies change both physically and chemically. Hair and skin, in particular, are susceptible to early signs of aging, such as follicle or elasticity loss, which are often caused or exacerbated by the changes to the body's DNA and chemistry. Many anti-aging treatments seek to slow or reverse aging by supplementing certain proteins or amino acids that give hair and skin a youthful glow. One such protein? Collagen peptides.

In recent years, collagen peptides have become popular in skincare for their perceived ability to rejuvenate skin, reduce wrinkles, and restore volume and elasticity to sagging skin. Further, research has shown collagen peptides can accelerate wound healing. Understanding the many building blocks that hair and skin have in common, it's easy to see why many would wonder what benefits collagen peptides could have for the hair as well.

Are collagen peptides the solution to healthy, youthful locks? We turned to two hair experts to understand what benefits collagen peptides have for the hair. Keep reading to find out their opinions on this controversial supplement.

Benefits of Collagen Peptides for Hair

Many of the purported benefits of collagen peptides for the hair are the result of orally ingesting them either through supplements or natural diet. Kinler explains that collagen peptides do not necessarily impact growth or loss per se, rather they impact the health of the follicle for optimal growth.  Collagen peptides are often found in powdered form or as an ingredient listed in hair supplement capsules. Garshick explains that the hydrolyzed collagen peptides are smaller molecules that allow for more easy absorption from the gut to the bloodstream. "Peptides, more specifically, are chains of amino acids and are considered the building blocks of proteins," Garshick explains.

While topical application of collagen peptides does not have the same effect on the hair and skin, they do still provide benefits. Kinler says "Collagen peptide infused shampoos and conditioners or serums are really about moisture and the amino acids benefits protecting and defending hair and scalp." Garshick adds that when peptides are applied to the skin, they provides a signal to the body that healing or recovery needs to take place and this actually helps to boost natural collagen production. Research has shown collagen peptides' ability to accelerate wound healing and prevent scar formation.

• Strengthens the hair follicle: Our hair is primarily made up of the protein keratin, says Kinler, "we need amino acids, like those found in collagen, to build the keratin for strong, healthy hair." While the topical application of collagen peptides may not have quite the same strengthening power, Garshick says it can help to support and strengthen the hair that is present.
• Hydrates the hair and scalp: The topical benefit of collagen peptides is primarily hydration. Kinler says that collagen peptide infused shampoos and conditioners or serums are really about moisture and the amino acids benefits protecting and defending hair and scalp. Garshick adds that collagen may also help boost hydration of the skin and because the scalp is an extension of the skin, it is possible that it may help to hydrate the skin in those with dry scalp, though further research is needed. 
• May aid in hair growth: Both experts stress that collagen peptides do not necessarily impact growth directly, but instead influence the health of the growing environment. "Presence of collagen during the anagen (growth) stage of the hair, gives the hair bulb its best nourishment, creating the optimal environment for strong hairs to be produced," shares Kinler.
• Provides anti-oxidant support: Collagen peptides fight free radical damage for both skin and hair shaft, explains Kinler. "While there are some explanations as to how collagen peptides may reduce hair loss or thinning and may prevent graying, often related to the antioxidant benefits, more research is needed in this area as well," says Garshick.
• Improves overall appearance of the hair: There are many factors that impact the appearance of hair, including hydration and breakage. Garshick explains that while there are some explanations as to how collagen peptides may reduce hair loss or thinning and may prevent graying, often related to the antioxidant benefits, more research is needed in these areas as well. 'It can also help to support and strengthen the hair that is present, helping to improve the overall appearance of the hair," she adds.
  

Hair Type Considerations

In general, collagen peptides can be used by all hair types and textures, including color-treated hair. Our experts agree that collagen peptides are safe for all to use, but that some hair types may benefit more than others. Kinler says those with dry, damaged, color treated or thinning hair may see the most benefits to hair vitality, while Garshick mentions that due to the hydration they provide to the skin, it is possible it may help those with dry scalps, though further research is needed. 

While not common, allergy to collagen peptides is possible. The two most common sources for collagen peptides are bovine and marine, so those who are vegan or vegetarian may need to ensure the source of the collagen peptides before ingesting. Additionally, both experts caution that a medical professional should be consulted if you are experiencing hair loss to determine the cause.

How to Use Collagen Peptides for Hair

The best way to maximize the benefits of collagen peptides for hair is to ingest them. This can be achieved through supplements or a healthy, well-balanced diet. Additionally, both experts agree that there are certain benefits to topical application of collagen peptides, though they differ from those achieved through oral ingestion.

Oral supplements can be taken daily and both experts say to follow the dosage provided by the supplement, as some may contain other ingredients that boost the bioavailability of collagen peptides, making them more potent. Garshick also adds that you should take the supplement for 3-6 months before determining if it is effective as the hair can take time to grow.

•  Take oral collagen peptide supplements: Both experts say oral supplements or ingesting collagen peptides via a healthy diet are the best way to see their benefits. There are many types of collagen peptide supplements on the market that can fit into your lifestyle.
• Use collagen peptide-infused products: Collagen peptides do not have the same potency when applied topically, but they do provide hydration. Kinler says that in any hair product they will provide moisture, skin nutrition, and antioxidant support to fight damage caused by free radicals.