Hair thinning is one of the most common beauty and wellness concerns for both women and men. Whether it’s due to aging, hormonal shifts, stress, or nutritional gaps, many people start noticing their hair becoming finer, weaker, or less dense over time. Because of this, the search for effective and natural solutions has grown - bringing marine collagen into the spotlight.
But does marine collagen actually help with thinning hair? Let’s explore the evidence, the benefits, and how it might fit into your hair-wellness routine.
What is marine collagen?
Marine collagen is a type of collagen protein sourced from fish skin or scales. It’s usually hydrolysed, meaning it’s broken down into small peptides that are easy for the body to absorb. Collagen is best known as the most abundant structural protein in the body - supporting the skin, bones, joints, and connective tissues. But collagen also plays an important role in maintaining the structure of the scalp and the health of hair follicles.
How marine collagen may support thicker, healthier hair
While research is still growing, there are several scientifically plausible ways marine collagen may benefit thinning hair:
1. Key amino acids
Hair is made mostly of keratin, a protein built from amino acids. Marine collagen offers a rich supply of keratin-supporting amino acids such as glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline. By supplying these building blocks, collagen may help support the strength and resilience of growing hair strands.
2. Supports scalp health
Hair grows from follicles anchored in the dermis - the layer of skin largely composed of collagen. As collagen levels naturally decline with age, the scalp can become less firm and supportive. Supplementing marine collagen may help maintain dermal integrity, creating a healthier environment for hair follicles to thrive.
3. May help reduce hair breakage
Hair thinning isn’t only about losing strands; breakage can make your hair appear sparser than it really is. Studies suggest that collagen peptides may help improve hair elasticity and reduce brittleness, leading to thicker-looking hair over time.
4. Offers antioxidant protection
Oxidative stress is a major factor in accelerated hair thinning. The antioxidant activity of marine collagen peptides may help protect hair follicles from free-radical damage. Less oxidative stress means better protection for the hair growth cycle.
What does the research say?
While the research is still emerging, several small clinical studies have shown promising results. Participants taking daily marine collagen experienced improvements in hair density, reduced shedding, and stronger strands. However, it’s important to remember that collagen isn’t a standalone cure for hair loss - especially when thinning is caused by hormonal imbalances or genetic factors. Instead, think of it as a supportive nutrient that complements a holistic hair-care approach.
Why marine collagen?
Compared to bovine or porcine collagen, marine collagen is typically easier for the body to absorb due to its smaller peptide size. This means the body may use it more efficiently, potentially making it a better choice for those specifically targeting skin and hair health.
Many people also prefer marine collagen because it’s considered cleaner, more sustainable, and less likely to cause digestive discomfort than other forms.
If you’re considering trying marine collagen for thinning hair, the quality of the supplement is crucial. Look for sustainably sourced, pure marine collagen with no unnecessary fillers. Traceability is also key - knowing exactly where your collagen comes from helps ensure safety, potency, and effectiveness.
Our Collagen+ prioritises premium marine collagen peptides from wild-caught, cold-water Norwegian cod. We then incorporated our flavourless PureSea Protect seaweed powder to create the UK's first collagen with approved health claims - formulated to support hair, skin and nail health from the inside out.
Marine collagen isn’t a miracle cure for hair thinning - but it can be a valuable tool for supporting stronger, healthier, fuller-looking hair. With its amino acids, structural benefits for the scalp, and antioxidant properties, it offers a gentle and natural way to nourish hair from within.
If you’re experiencing hair thinning and want a simple, daily supplement that supports overall beauty and wellbeing, marine collagen is certainly worth considering - especially when paired with a healthy diet, stress management, and good scalp care. Click here to shop our Collagen+, a double-duty formula with proven results.