Hair thinning is a common part of aging, but with today’s hair health products, supplements, and dermatologic treatments, hair thinning doesn’t have to be permanent. Boosting collagen is one of the best ways to improve hair fullness and health. As we age, collagen levels diminish and damaged collagen is not replaced as quickly. These changes with age impact hair, skin, and whole-body health. For women in perimenopause and menopause, changes in hormone levels coupled with collagen loss leads to higher levels of hair thinning and loss. For men, the reduction in testosterone and collagen leads to increased hair loss. Though we know this is true, taking just any collagen supplement or using any collagen product won’t necessarily stop the effects of aging. However, utilizing collagen as part of a broader anti-aging and wellness plan can be extremely beneficial. In this blog, we’ll discuss why collagen matters for hair loss and anti-aging routines and how to incorporate collagen supplements and products into your daily routine.
What Is Collagen & Why Does It Matter?
So, how can collagen help with aging? Collagen is an essential protein in the body. It is one of the most important components of hair, skin, nails, bones, and connective tissues. It gives our body structure, support, and strength. While there are 28 different kinds of collagen found throughout the body, types I and III are most important for health and aging. Type I collagen is the most abundant with the highest concentrations in skin, hair, and nails, providing structure and support. Type III collagen works in conjunction with type I, providing hydration and elasticity. During the aging process, collagen production slows. This leads to thinning skin and hair, reduced skin elasticity, coarse breakage-prone hair, and changes in texture of hair, skin, and nails. Collagen impacts multiple body systems, so utilizing supplements help boost general health as well as improving skin and hair health and beauty. Some of the benefits of collagen supplements include:
- Hair follicle support –hair follicles depend on protein to provide structural support. Collagen supplements can improve follicle integrity and lead to healthier hair growth.
- Scalp hydration and elasticity – hydration and elasticity of skin on the scalp is important to keep hair healthy and ensure follicles function properly to support thick and full hair growth.
- Increased skin firmness – when it comes to anti-aging, collagen is probably best known for promoting healthy, youthful-looking skin. Loss of collagen is partially responsible for the lax, sagging skin, so restoring lost collagen firms and smooths.
- Protects against oxidative damage – oxidative skin damage from UV radiation, pollution, and other environmental aggressors is most known for accelerating skin aging, but it can also damage hair follicles and the scalp, increasing hair thinning and loss. Collagen supplements, especially when used in conjunction with antioxidants, can minimize free radical damage.
How Aging & Menopause Affect Hair Health
The entire body changes during menopause, so it’s no surprise that it impacts skin and hair health. During menopause, many women start to notice more shedding, wider hair parts, and slower growth. Menopause hair loss can be frustrating and adversely impact self-confidence. While hormonal shifts are the key factors that impact hair growth and density during menopause, declining collagen production also contributes to thinning. Less collagen means weaker follicles, decreased scalp hydration, and more fragile hair strands. This can lead to brittle, fine, dry, and breakage-prone hair.
Can Collagen Help with Hair Growth?
Using collagen for hair growth and thickness can be beneficial. It is not directly a hair growth medication. Instead, it supports the health of hair follicles, scalp, hair strands, and other supportive and surrounding structures that are essential to hair growth. It’s an important part of an overall hair health and growth plan, but it won’t instantly reverse hair loss. Most collagen supplements to support hair growth contain hydrolyzed collagen peptides that are broken down into small, easier to absorb and utilize molecules. Using collagen peptides benefits hair growth by supporting strong hair shafts, hydrated scalp skin, and a healthy follicle environment. This reduces breakage and shedding over time. It can take several months of consistent supplement use to see improved hair growth and fullness.
Collagen Products for Aging & Wellness Benefits
There are numerous collagen products for aging on the market, and using these products for anti-aging and wellness offers a number of benefits, including:
- Improving skin elasticity – the supportive dermal layer of skin becomes thinner as collagen declines, leading to lax skin. Collagen supplements may improve skin hydration and elasticity with regular use.
- Supporting joint health – collagen is a vital component of connective tissue. Collagen supplements boost joint health and lubrication for greater ease and comfort when moving.
- Increasing bone density – as part of an overall wellness routine, collagen supports bone health and density. It’s often recommended as a preventive measure for those at risk of osteoporosis.
Spotlight: Nutrafol Collagen Infusion MD
Using collagen for thinning hair can be beneficial, but it’s important to find the right supplement. Nutrafol Collagen Infusion MD combines marine collagen peptides with adaptogenic botanicals that support hair and skin health inside and out. High in type I collagen, this supplement provides amino acids needed for health hair, follicle, and scalp health. The adaptogenic botanical ingredients address stress response that contributes to increased shedding by disrupting the hair growth cycle. Nutrafol Collagen Infusion MD is formulated to reduce shedding, strengthen hair strands, and improve scalp health. With consistent use, results complement a larger anti-aging and health strategy.
Supporting Hair Health Beyond Supplements
In addition to taking hair growth supplements, it’s important to develop a supportive routine for hair health that includes:
- Balanced nutrition – a diet rich in protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants supports strong, healthy hair.
- Manage stress – cortisol and other hormones that spike during stress contribute to increased shedding. Managing stress is an essential way to support hair health. A therapist can offer stress management techniques, but even improving sleep and increasing exercise can significantly alleviate stress.
- Be gentle with hair – limit heat styling, dying, chemical processing, hairstyles that pull at the scalp, and other harsh treatments and styles that damage hair or scalp.
- Protect the scalp – cleanse regularly, use a hydrating conditioner, and apply sunscreen to any visible parts of the scalp to ensure the skin stays healthy and hydrated.
When to See a Dermatologist About Hair Thinning
Whether you’re looking for help with aging skin or thinning hair, working with a dermatologist may be beneficial. During a dermatology consultation, you can discuss symptoms, ask questions, and develop a treatment plan. You may want to consider a dermatology visit for hair thinning if you notice:
- Sudden, excessive hair shedding.
- Thinning that progresses or worsens over time.
- Scalp inflammation.
- Patchy hair loss.
- Need for support to improve treatment options or develop a well-rounded anti-aging plan.
Keep Hair Healthy as You Age with Collagen
There are numerous healthy aging supplements that contain collagen and other beneficial ingredients. It’s important to understand what ingredients they contain, how they work, and who they benefit. Consistency is key since collagen supplements take time to work. Stick with any supplement you use for at least three months unless you notice negative side effects or your dermatologist recommends a change.
Explore More Hair Health Options
There are more options available to support healthy hair and skin aging. Explore dermatologist-recommended treatments at DermSkincare.com. The range of products available on this site have been vetted by skincare professionals.