Beauty

8 Best Collagen Brands for Hair Growth

Searching for the Best Collagen Brands for Hair Growth

Best Collagen for Hair Growth

If you think about it too hard, collagen can be pretty weird and intimidating. Found within tendons, ligaments, and skin, it’s one of the secrets to looking and feeling good. Our bodies naturally produce collagen and lots of it.

“Collagen has amino acids, such as proline, hydroxyproline, and glycine, which build proteins,” said Dr. Michael May.

Meet the Expert: Michael May, MD

Dr. Michael May is the Medical Director and Principal Surgeon of the Wimpole Clinic in London, England. He has 25 years experience in the field of hair transplant surgery and has completed over 10,000 hair transplant procedures.

Dr. May entered private practice in 1982 when he first became involved with hair surgery, since then, he has dedicated his career exclusively to the science and practice of hair transplant surgery and hair restoration.

As we age, we start producing less and less collagen, hence the brittle hair, sagging skin, and achy joints. Other factors that compromise collagen production include undue sun exposure, smoking, excessive alcohol intake, sleep deprivation and sedentism.

Aging is a gift, and while making it to a ripe old number is ideal, we just hope it’s with fewer wrinkles and more luscious locks than our grandmothers had.

The race to combat the effects of aging, stress, and imbalance is a more modern game, but perhaps that’s just because science has actually had time to study and come up with effective solutions

However, the evidence regarding the benefits of collagen supplementation for hair loss is controversial. There are few studies and they are founded by the companies that sell the products. 

A recently published systematic review by A.M. Rustad and colleagues explored the available research on this topic. The authors concluded that there is currently no evidence to support collagen supplementation for hair growth or nails enhancement, or skin improvement.

As the evidence we have is mainly from animal studies, further research in humans is still needed.

Best Collagen for Hair Growth

Another systematic review published in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology found that collagen supplementation is safe and may improve skin elasticity and hydration. Some evidence suggests that collagen intake improves wound healing and has anti-aging effects on the skin.

Regarding collagen benefits for joints and bones, a systematic review by E. Porfirio and colleagues concluded that collagen supplementation improves osteoarthritis symptoms, particularly relieving pain.

It may also be beneficial in osteoporosis prevention and treatment by increasing the bone mineral density.

Collagen is natural, diet-friendly, and is claimed to make a difference. In the realm of healthcare, there’s not much more you could ask for. First formulated into topical treatments, the protein has been proven to do a better job when ingested, making its way into our cells and fortifying them—to give you the short of it.

8 Best Collagen Brands for Hair Growth

We’ve put together this best collagen brands for hair growth list for those of you who dream of long, bouncy, shiny strands but can’t seem to make yours budge. Collagen has been having its moment these last few years and we’ve watched it steadily grow in the media. The consensus? It may work.

The truth is that unhealthy hair can happen for many reasons, from diet imbalances to stress to health conditions. The products on this list target specific causes of dull, lifeless hair and work on healing them from the root.

“Collagen products can both be topical and ingested. The topical products, usually infused in shampoo and serum, work best in hydrating the hair and scalp,” Dr. May said.

Now, we know this list is technically titled with the word “collagen,” but we couldn’t help but include a superstar formula that doesn’t contain a drop of the protein here too.

Our purpose here is to show you the best of what’s out there, and if that means a product that approaches gorgeous hair from a different angle, then we think you deserve to know. Let’s get started with a brand that takes on hair growth from a cellular level, Nutrafol.

#1: Glotrition Super Beauty Elixir

Best Collagen for Hair Growth

Founded in 2015, Glotrition was created by Lisa Pineiro, a former health and science TV reporter. Formulating for inside-out beauty, the brand’s line of supplements and skincare uses highly bioavailable collagen peptides to fuel new collagen growth and restore your skin’s vibrancy. 

Designed to fit in with your everyday life, Glotrition products are the bridge between living your life and keeping your skin looking its best. With a range of effective, science-backed ingredients like hyaluronic acid and biotin, if you’re looking for results-driven skincare, look no further.

Glotrition has just three products in its collection, including the Super Beauty Elixir (a tasty, natural drink mix), Restore Beauty Booster, and Sleep Beauty Booster. With luxurious formulas, using them daily isn’t a chore. A 30-day supply of the Super Beauty Elixir is $69.

Highlights

  • Highly bioavailable collagen
  • Inside-out approach to beauty
  • Results-driven
  • Natural & cruelty-free
  • Clinically-tested
  • Non-GMO

#2: Nutrafol

Best Collagen for Hair Growth

Nutrafol is one of the names on this best collagen brands for hair growth list that uses fish collagen instead of cow. The brand, created in 2014 by three folks who all experienced hair loss, uses medical-grade but drug-free ingredients to help reverse hair thinning.

The Nutrafol Hair Growth system approached hair growth from a nutritional and whole-body angle, using 21 ingredients such as saw palmetto, curcumin extract, hyaluronic acid, vitamins, and minerals to nourish you from the inside out. 

The daily supplement is packed with Sensoril® Ashwagandha, Tocotrienol Complex, and Marine Collagens. It helps with stress and nutritional balance, too.

A publication by P.A. Farris and colleagues summarized the efficacy of Nutrafol supplements in 4 individuals with hair loss. Participants were highly satisfied with the product and reported significant improvement in hair thickening. 

Ashwagandha is an ayurvedic herb that may reduce stress. A clinical trial published in Medicine evaluated the impact of ashwagandha on emotional stress. Sixty healthy adults under chronic stress were randomized to receive either ashwagandha extract or a placebo for 2 months.

Participants who received ashwagandha showed a significant reduction in anxiety levels and a reduction in morning cortisol levels.

Users say this formula really works and has some great added benefits like a calmer mood and better sleep. Get a one-month supply for $88 (four capsules per serving).

Related: For more information view our full Nutrafol Review

Highlights

  • Focuses on whole-body health to help hair grow
  • Packed with 21 potent, targeted ingredients
  • Uses marine collagen instead of cow (good for pescatarians)
  • Free from common allergens (dairy, soy, eggs, gluten, peanuts)
  • In capsule form (easy to take)

#3: Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides

Best Collagen for Hair Growth

Vital Proteins is all about nutrition and feeding your body with clean, natural ingredients you can trust. The brand was founded in 2013 with the goal “to help others live fuller, more vibrant lives.”

Collagen is a protein, so the Collagen Peptides fit nicely in its selection of protein powders and supplements. They are actually what has helped the brand make a name for itself, earning the title of the #1 collagen brand in America.

One serving of the Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides provides 20g of collagen, along with 100% of your DRI of vitamin C, and 80 mg of Hyaluronic acid. Helping to strengthen, hydrate, and protect your cells, this formula is all about helping you glow.

Preliminary studies suggest that hyaluronic acid supplementation may enhance hair growth.

In a study using dermal cell lines, N. Zerbinati and colleagues found that hyaluronic acid restored dermal papilla cells, showed a protective antioxidant effect on hair follicles, and stimulated angiogenesis. These results may have implications for hair growth. 

Vitamin C is used to boost collagen production. However, vitamin supplementation is not recommended for hair loss. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, vitamins, minerals, and other supplements should only be taken if there is a proven deficiency.

Users awarded this supplement a 4.7/5-star score—all 8,075 of them, proving just how popular it really is. Grab a 9.33 oz tub for $27. The brand recommends 1-2 scoops per day.

Related: For more information view our full Vital Proteins Collagen Review

Highlights

  • 20 grams of bovine (cow) collagen
  • Contains 100% of your DRI of vitamin C & Hyaluronic acid
  • Has a complete amino acid profile
  • Dissolves easily in liquids

#4: Garden of Life Collagen Peptides

Best Collagen for Hair Growth

Garden of Life is celebrated for its whole-foods approach to health. Using real plants to fuel its line of nutritious products and supplements, the brand is all about clean, traceable, and clinically-studied ingredients that are produced sustainably. 

Completely clean, it’s a brand you can trust for efficacy and safety since it tests all of its products with 3rd party labs. The Garden of Life Collagen Peptides are no exception, packing in 20 grams of grass-fed, pasture-raised collagen for hair health along with 1.5 billion CFU probiotics.

A review published in Frontiers in Microbiology describes promising findings regarding the potential benefits of probiotics for hair growth.

Preclinical studies and a clinical trial have found that probiotics may improve androgenic alopecia by stimulating peripheral blood circulation and increasing the number and thickness of new hair. 

The formula mixes in smoothly with drinks and baking, and 116 customers attest to this and its effectiveness with a 4.7/5-star score. Grab a 9.87 oz tub for $21 (on sale from $26). The brand recommends mixing 1-2 scoops into 8 oz of liquids.

Highlights

  • 20 grams of grass-fed, pasture-raised bovine collagen
  • Non-GMO, keto, paleo, and gluten-free
  • No dairy or soy
  • Clean formula
  • Contains probiotics along with collagen for easy digestion
  • Tested by 3rd party lab for safety

#5: Neocell

Best Collagen for Hair Growth

Neocell has been helping people retain their youth since 1998. A reliable collagen brand, it’s known to be one of the best collagen supplements out there since it addresses cell hydration and firmness.

Offering a range of health and beauty supplements, Neocell makes both Collagen Type 1 & 3 powders as well as strictly type 2. The types react differently within your body, and for hair health, your best option would be the first one.

It has everything from collagen gummies to marine collagen capsules and collagen peptides, but we’ll take a look at the Neocell Super Collagen Powder here since it’s the most popular. If you’re interested in the other versions, pop over to the site to check them out.

The Super Collagen Powder blends hydrolyzed type 1 and type 3 collagen peptides, which are claimed to help your hair grow long, strong, and healthy. Absorbed quickly into your cells, it also mixes nicely with liquids and comes in unflavored, berry lemon, and French vanilla flavors.

Formulated for bioavailability, Neocell says that hydrolyzed collagen is the most effective form. With an overall rating of 4.4/5 stars from 1,492 shoppers, go ahead and pick up a 7 oz tub for $17.

Highlights

  • Hydrolyzed collagen for bioavailability
  • Comes in tasty flavors
  • Includes collagen types 1 & 3 for effectiveness

#6: Hairtamin

Best Collagen for Hair Growth

We’re sure you can tell by its name, but Hairtamin is a brand that specifically caters to hair. Founded by powerhouse duo Lilly Ghalichi and Leyla Milani, the brand has quite a bit of hype surrounding it due to the pair’s acting and reality TV success.

A go-to for those searching for an easy way to get long, shiny hair, Hairtamin formulas are vegan, meaning you won’t find an ounce of collagen within them. Instead, they focus on vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to restore whole-body health and strengthen hair follicles.

Its range of capsules, gummies, and mom-specific formulas is made in the USA with clinically-proven ingredients. For this best collagen brands for hair growth list, we’ll give you the details on its Advanced Formula packed with 5,000 mcg of biotin and a spectrum of plant extracts and vitamins.

Beneficial ingredients like turmeric, black pepper, cayenne, and aloe vera are packed into these once-a-day capsules, along with rosemary, stinging nettle, and Bacopa monnieri leaf extract.

You’ll also get the full range of B vitamins, along with A, C, and D3, plus a range of minerals known for their role in hair health.

The brand claims that all you need is just one capsule per day to stop hair shedding and increase the growth of existing hairs. Loved by those who try it, 2,667 users awarded this one a 4.7/5-star score. Transform your hair without collagen with a one-month supply for $66 (normally $75).

Related: For more information view our full HAIRtamin Review

Highlights

  • An option for vegans!
  • No artificial ingredients
  • Clinically-proven formulas
  • Contains a full spectrum of vitamins and minerals

#7: Nature’s Bounty Hair, Skin & Nails

Best Collagen for Hair Growth

You’ve probably seen Nature’s Bounty in the health aisle at your local pharmacy. It’s a popular name in health supplements, loved for its clean ingredients list and high-quality formulas.

The brand was founded back in 1971 by Arthur Rudolph, and that makes it one of the oldest on this best collagen brands for hair growth list.

Nature’s Bounty offers three different Hair, Skin & Nails formulas, including the Hair, Skin & Nails Plus Collagen gummies which we’ll be looking at here.

The healing power of nature is packed into capsules filled with 2,500 mcg of biotin and 100 mg of collagen to fortify and encourage hair growth.

A systematic review published in Skin Appendage Disorders explored the available evidence regarding the efficacy of biotin supplementation for hair and nail growth.

The authors concluded that there is a lack of evidence to support biotic supplementation for these purposes in the general population. 

In conclusion, only those patients with known biotin deficiency, brittle nail syndrome, or uncombable hair may benefit from biotin supplements.

That said, you can always give supplements you’re interested in a try (with professional recommendation). 

Tasty and a joy to eat daily, a tropical flavor of Hair, Skin & Nails is available and rated 4.5/5 stars by the 20,426 customers who have left reviews.

You can buy an 80-ct bottle on Amazon for $10, and the suggested serving size is two per day.

Highlights

  • Contains collagen & biotin
  • Delivered in delicious gummy form
  • Natural ingredients
  • Affordable
  • Free from common allergens

#8: Shiseido The Collagen

Best Collagen for Hair Growth

Shiseido is a skincare and cosmetics brand known for its efficient, top-of-the-line products. Based in Japan, it’s perhaps known best for making the four-step skincare routine popular in the US.

The brand has been around since 1872, but its collagen supplement line came to be in more recent years, in 1996. The Collagen uses a blend of natural ingredients like strawberry seed extract, Indian gooseberry, and lingonberry for a potent dose of antioxidants and resilience.

The core of the formula comes from 5,000 mg of low molecular fish collagen, along with vitamin C, and Hyaluronic acid for cell health and hydration. Flavorless and free from fat, The Collagen powder mixes in with whatever you care to use.

Made in Japan, this performing supplement comes in 4.44 oz bags for $25.

Highlights

  • Contains a mix of collagen, vitamin C, and Hyaluronic acid for effectiveness
  • Uses fish collagen (ok for pescatarians)
  • Collagen is low-molecular (more easily absorbed)

What Is Collagen Exactly?

Best Collagen for Hair Growth

At its core, collagen is simply a protein found in our connective tissues. It has a fibrous structure that’s found in bones, skin, tendons, cartilage, and muscles.

Think of it like the stretchy, resilient hero that helps you move around easily, gives skin its supple look, and makes hair healthy and shiny. Humans have it in their bodies as well as animals, but it’s found in certain plants too.

How Does Collagen Contribute to Hair Growth?

Best Collagen for Hair Growth

Hair needs certain vitamins, minerals, and proteins to grow. Collagen is one of those proteins. It’s what helps hair retain a strong structure, infusing strands with the necessary amino acids to create keratin (the protein needed to make hair).

It also helps your scalp stay stretchy and hydrated. Healthy hair comes from a healthy scalp.

Collagen may be able to help fight damage to hair follicles as well. This superhero protein can act as an antioxidant to defend strands against environmental factors, stress, and poor diet, protecting your strands so that they can grow instead of break.

Which Type of Collagen is Best for Hair Growth?

Best Collagen for Hair Growth

Did you know there are like 16+ different types of collagen? Some say that Types 1 and 3 are the best, while others insist that Type 5 should be included in this list as well. To experience some positive kind of effect on your hair, you should definitely be taking one of these types, if not all three.

It turns out that 80-90% of the collagen we have in our bodies is made from Type 1 and 3 collagen, but Type 5 is said to act as a booster, helping them be more effective. So what about the form that collagen comes in?

You may have seen some interesting phrases on this best collagen brands for hair growth list like “low density” and “hydrolyzed.” Both make it easier for your body to absorb the collagen inside them since they’re already partially broken down and ready for action.

As for where the protein comes from, marine collagen is said to contain the highest ratio of Type 1 collagen around.

Since Type 1 is what you’ll definitely need to include in your regimen for hair growth and health, it may be beneficial to opt for a source from the sea, though bovine collagen is said to be highly effective as well.

How Much Collagen Should You Take for Hair Growth?

Best Collagen for Hair Growth

There isn’t one specific golden number when it comes to taking collagen. The amount you need specifically varies depending on your body and goals. Some say that for better hair health, taking between 2.5-10 grams of collagen each day should be enough to see results.

Now, many of the best collagen brands for hair growth supplements come with 20 grams per serving, but some come with less. Taking any more than that may come with side effects, and it’s something you’ll want to consult your doctor with first before doing.

The 2.5-10 gram range is quite a big fluctuation, but just remember, some formulas consist of other ingredients that boost hair growth too.

Buying the Best Collagen for Hair Growth: Things to Consider

Best Collagen for Hair Growth

You’ve made your way through this list for the best collagen brands for hair growth, now what? Well, with any luck, one or two have caught your eye. So which one to choose?

If you’re having a little trouble making a decision, don’t fret. We get how tedious decision-making can be, so we put together another list to help you sort through the onslaught of information you just received.

Brand

Some brands are well-known, others, not so much. Just because you’ve heard of one company and not the other doesn’t mean a certain pick is better than the other, although, sometimes it does.

In the case of this best collagen brands for hair growth list, you can rest assured knowing that we’ve weeded out the less effective choices on the market. What you see here is pretty popular and you can tell that by looking at each product’s ratings (always above 4/5 stars).

If you’re adamant about using what celebrities do or choosing a brand that’s been around since ancient times, then that’s definitely something you should keep an eye out for when browsing. We’ve got both of those here, so it’s just a matter of what you’re looking for.

Ingredient Quality

Collagen is natural, but where it comes from varies. There are two main forms of the essential protein used in the best collagen brands for hair growth supplements, one derived from fish, the other from cows.

You may have noticed while browsing that some products state what kind of collagen they use, such as “grass-fed and pasture-raised.” Certain brands will use wild-caught marine collagen too. If you’re a stickler for ingredients, watch out for words like those.

The quality of ingredients used may make a big difference in the effects you experience from your collagen supplement.

Quantity

The truth about collagen products is that they’re a little pricier than your average protein powders. With that in mind, if you’re looking to get the best deal for your money, it’s a good idea to take a look at the quantities for each.

There are a lot of powders on this best collagen brands for hair growth list that come with only 12-14 servings (usually a teaspoon is a serving, but it does vary).

While it’s normal to check out the price and make your decision from there, you’ll definitely want to factor in how many servings you’re getting from each package.

Don’t compare a $20 bag of powder to a $32 1-month supply of vitamins. Chances are, the powder will only yield ½ of the bottle’s supply and will end up costing you more.

Health & Beauty Benefits

The majority of the supplements we’ve nominated to be the best collagen brands for hair growth have different formulas.

All of the products on this list were formulated to help you grow strong, thick hair, but some offer additional benefits for health and beauty. Want to help your hair and digestion at the same time? How about whole-body health? You’ll find products that do both of those things here.

Health Condition

Even though collagen products have been determined safe for consumption by health officials, the supplements on this best collagen brands for hair growth list are designed for adults.

There aren’t many negative side effects that come from consuming too much collagen, but the biggest one is digestive upset. You may also experience fullness, heartburn, and indigestion, and if so, stop use and consult your doctor before starting up again.

Those with shellfish allergies should steer clear of supplements containing marine collagen. This source is found in sea creatures and may be life-threatening to consume. As always, read ingredient lists thoroughly before use. Many are free from common allergens, but you can never be too sure.

Price

This may seem like an obvious one but it’s definitely worth mentioning. Since collagen is something you’re supposed to take long-term (sometimes up to 6 months to see results), you’ll need to get real about your budget.

A $17, 7 oz bag of collagen is great, but it only yields around 10 servings. You’ll need 3 of those to make it through the month.

If you want the biggest bang for your buck, consider a formula that has more ingredients. For example, choosing a product that bundles a B-Complex supplement with a hair vitamin may end up saving you money in the long run if you’re going to take both anyways.

And just the same, choosing a less expensive, simpler product may be more ideal for you if you want to keep things strictly to collagen.

Final Thoughts

Best Collagen for Hair Growth

At birth, we all start off with healthy hair. But factors like age, pollution, stress, poor diet, health conditions, and the like creep in, stripping us of our gorgeous, shiny locks and leaving us with a dull, damaged head of hair we don’t recognize.

Our hair is part of our identities—it’s hard to just give up on. But since we’re made up of collagen, and over time we lose it, it only makes sense to supplement the protein if healthier, longer, and stronger hair is what we’re after.

This best collagen brands for hair growth list serves as a great starting place for your journey to hair health. With a variety of some of the top supplements out there, no matter your preference (powder, gummies, capsules), we’ve got you covered here.

And since we did all the digging for you, you can shop with confidence knowing that you’re selecting an effective, hard-working formula from many of the top brands in the collagen market.


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