As we age, the skin in the mirror does not look the same as before. When elasticity decreases and fine lines begin to appear, interest in collagen supplementation naturally increases. Recently, studies have shown that 'ingestible collagen' is beneficial not only for the skin but also for hair care. While collagen is known as a beneficial ingredient for the skin, it actually also affects the scalp and hair. Let's explore the various benefits and selection methods of functional collagen.
Collagen Connects Skin to Hair
Collagen is a key component that determines the elasticity and density of the dermis layer of the skin, existing throughout the body and contributing to the luster, strength, and elasticity of the scalp and hair. Collagen, which accounts for 90% of the dermis layer, decreases by 1% each year from adulthood, and after the age of 40, the rate of breakdown accelerates, leading to thinner skin and reduced elasticity. These changes can also manifest in the scalp and hair, as hair follicles, the basic units that create hair, exist in the dermis layer. Ultimately, since the scalp is also skin, it is important to note that skin aging can lead to scalp aging.
The Difference in Molecular Structure Affects Efficiency… 'Tripeptide Collagen' that Improves the Dermis Layer
The efficiency of collagen utilization in the body varies according to its structure. In particular, tripeptide collagen, composed of three amino acids (Gly-Pro-Hyp), is known to have a high absorption rate due to its similar structure to our skin.
Results from human application tests of low molecular weight collagen peptides with a tripeptide structure showed significant improvements in dermal density by 266% and dermal thickness by 548% after 4 weeks of intake, confirming enhancements in dermis-related indicators. The dermis layer serves as a support structure for the skin and is key to maintaining elasticity. An improvement in dermal density means that the arrangement of collagen fibers becomes denser and the density increases, which can positively impact various skin indicators such as elasticity, luster, and wrinkles.
From Skin to Joints to Hair… Korea's First 'Quadruple Functional' Collagen
Previously, ingestible collagen focused on skin functionality, but recently its functional range has expanded, gaining attention as a raw material used for overall health management. Among these, low molecular weight collagen peptides have secured functions for improving hair luster and elasticity in addition to skin and joint benefits, becoming the first 'quadruple functional' ingredient recognized by the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety in Korea. Human application tests have confirmed improvement effects in various indicators such as hair luster, elasticity, density, and satisfaction, making it a new functional collagen that meets consumer needs for simultaneous skin and hair care.
25 Years of Research Expertise… Differentiated as an Individually Recognized Functional Ingredient
Low molecular weight collagen peptides are an individually recognized ingredient from Nutri, a health functional food company with over 50 patents domestically and internationally, with its representative product being Evercollagen. Nutri has expanded its functionality to skin, joints, and hair based on 25 years of collagen research. Additionally, they maintain the freshness of raw materials and manage product quality stably with a system that completes the entire process from raw material selection to extraction and processing within 24 hours.
Carefully Evaluating Functionality and Clinical Results… The Standards for Choosing Collagen Are More Stringent
There are various collagen products on the market, but not all have the same functionality. Experts emphasize that when selecting products, one should check ▲whether functionality is recognized ▲results from human application tests related to the dermis ▲development capabilities of the raw materials. Choosing health functional foods with clearly marked functional items allows for more effective management.
If you are concerned about both skin aging and the decrease in hair luster and strength, using verified functional ingredients and selecting products from brands with solid research foundations can be a more reliable solution.
