Collagen is everywhere. In skincare, supplements, and increasingly, haircare. TikTok may call it a miracle for thinning hair, but what does science actually say about collagen for hair growth?
At SST UK, we work with trichologists to separate hype from evidence. Here’s the truth about how collagen supports stronger, more resilient hair and how to use it effectively.
What Collagen Actually Is
Collagen is the most abundant protein in your body, accounting for roughly 30 % of total protein content (Cleveland Clinic, 2023). It’s the structural framework that gives skin firmness, joints flexibility, and connective tissue strength.
From around age 25, collagen production naturally declines by about 1 % per year. By your 40s, the scalp’s dermal layer — the foundation where follicles anchor, becomes thinner and less elastic (Journal of Dermatological Science, 2019).
Hair itself is made of keratin, not collagen, but collagen supports the environment that allows keratin-rich strands to thrive. A scalp rich in collagen promotes better blood flow and stronger follicle anchoring, vital for maintaining healthy growth.
The Collagen–Hair Connection
Collagen contributes to hair health through two main mechanisms:
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Supplying amino acids for keratin synthesis
Collagen is rich in amino acids that the body uses to build keratin, the protein that makes up about 95% of hair. -
Strengthening the scalp’s dermal structure
Collagen helps maintain a robust, elastic dermis. As it declines with age, the scalp loses density, making follicles more prone to miniaturisation and shedding.
📖 In a 2022 clinical study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, participants taking hydrolysed collagen peptides for 6 months showed measurable improvement in hair thickness and dermal strength.
Oral vs Topical Collagen: What Works Best?
Oral Collagen - Nourish from Within
Hydrolysed collagen peptides are broken down into small amino-acid chains that enter the bloodstream and support new collagen and keratin synthesis.
Studies suggest consistent supplementation for 3–6 months can improve hair density and tensile strength, particularly in women with age-related thinning.
Topical Collagen - Strengthen from the Outside
Topical collagen works on the hair fibre and scalp surface. Only hydrolysed collagen (reduced molecular size) can adhere effectively, improving moisture retention and elasticity.
The DSD 5.3 Collagen Therapy Mask uses hydrolysed marine collagen, prized for its smaller peptide size and high bioavailability (Marine Drugs, 2021). It binds to damaged cuticles, sealing in hydration and reinforcing the hair shaft.
Trichologist consensus: combining oral and topical collagen yields the best results. That means internal nutrition plus external reinforcement.
Myths vs Reality
MYTH: Collagen regrows new hair.
REALITY: Collagen supports existing follicles; it doesn’t create new ones.
MYTH: All collagen is the same.
REALITY: Only hydrolysed collagen peptides are truly bioavailable.
MYTH: Results appear in a few weeks.
REALITY: Hair grows about 1 cm per month. Expect 3–6 months of consistent use.
MYTH: Topical collagen doesn’t work.
REALITY: Large-molecule collagen doesn’t, hydrolysed collagen does.
How to Add Collagen to Your Routine
1. Weekly mask:
Use a collagen-rich treatment like the DSD 4.4 Dual Action Serum With Collagen once or twice a week. Apply to clean, damp hair for 10–15 minutes to reinforce the fibre and scalp barrier.
2. Daily maintenance:
Choose shampoos or conditioners containing hydrolysed collagen and complementary proteins such as keratin and silk.
3. Internal support:
A high-quality marine collagen supplement provides systemic benefits — supporting scalp elasticity and keratin formation.
4. Balance with moisture:
Alternate collagen treatments with hydrating masks to maintain elasticity and avoid protein stiffness.
The Takeaway
Collagen isn’t a miracle cure for hair loss, but it’s a proven ally for stronger, smoother, and more resilient hair.
By reinforcing scalp structure, supplying keratin-building amino acids, and protecting against daily damage, collagen for hair growth offers real, measurable benefits when used consistently.
At SST UK, our trichologist-backed formulations use hydrolysed marine collagen because the science supports it and our customers see the difference.
👉 Ready to rebuild from within? Explore SST’s Collagen Therapy Collection →
