Encourages hair growth and strength
The hair is mostly made up of a protein called keratin. Bovine collagen contains three nonessential amino acids – proline, glycine, and hydroxyproline – that help the hair to maintain its integrity. Proline is especially important when it comes to hair growth and strength; it’s the main building block the body needs for keratin production. Bovine collagen is rich in proline, so taking it daily has been shown to encourage hair growth and strength.
Reduces hair greying
Oxidative stress occurs when the amount of free radical activity in the body outweighs the amount of antioxidant activity in the body. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage healthy cells, including the melanin-producing cells that give your hair colour. This can cause greying. Bovine collagen is high in antioxidants and studies suggest it can fight free radicals to prevent and slow down age-induced hair greying.
Prevents hair loss and thinning
Hair follicles are located in the dermis, the layer of skin between the epidermis (the surface layer) and the fat layer (the subcutaneous layer). The dermis is made up of 70% of collagen. As our body’s natural collagen production declines, these cells are slower to turn over and it’s thought that this is one of the main reasons why the hair thins as we age. Edible collagen tops up our collagen supply at a cellular level, and studies show it is effective in preventing hair loss and thinning.
Supports scalp health
Much like how bovine collagen moisturises the skin from within and increases hydration, it has similarly beneficial effects on the scalp. Even though it’s often overlooked, scalp health sets the standard for hair health. The scalp has a higher number of oil glands, sweat glands and hair follicles than the rest of the skin, so it requires special care. Collagen increases skin density and elasticity, providing an ideal foundation for hair follicles to flourish.