Does Gelatin Affect Hair Growth? Unpacking the Nutritional Link

November 4, 2025 •

4 min read

According to some studies, consuming gelatin has been linked to increased hair thickness and growth. This nutritional diet exploration dives into the science behind how gelatin affects hair growth and its role as a protein source for healthier hair.

Quick Summary

Explore the scientific evidence linking gelatin consumption, derived from collagen, to improved hair thickness and strength. Learn about the amino acids in gelatin that support keratin production and compare its effectiveness to other collagen forms.

Key Points

Amino Acid Source: Gelatin is derived from collagen and provides amino acids like glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline, which are essential building blocks for hair's keratin protein.
Increased Hair Thickness: Some studies have shown that daily intake of gelatin can lead to increased hair diameter, suggesting improved mechanical properties of the hair.
Supports Keratin Production: The protein content in gelatin provides the necessary raw materials for hair follicles to synthesize keratin, the main structural protein of hair strands.
Gelatin vs. Collagen Peptides: Hydrolyzed collagen peptides are more efficiently absorbed by the body due to their smaller molecular size, making them potentially more effective for hair and skin than standard gelatin.
Dietary Inclusion: Gelatin can be consumed through bone broth, added to hot beverages and desserts, or used topically in hair masks to potentially improve hair strength and health.
Protein Deficiency Connection: A lack of protein in the diet can lead to hair loss and thinning, a condition that is often reversible with adequate protein intake, which gelatin can contribute to.
Holistic Approach Needed: Gelatin is not a complete protein and works best as part of a balanced diet that includes a variety of protein sources, vitamins, and minerals essential for hair growth.

The Building Blocks of Hair: Protein, Keratin, and Amino Acids

To understand if gelatin can affect hair growth, it's essential to know what hair is made of. Hair is primarily composed of a fibrous structural protein called keratin. This keratin is synthesized within the hair follicles using amino acids as its building blocks. When the body doesn't receive enough protein from the diet, it can lead to hair loss or thinning because resources are redirected to more critical bodily functions. Gelatin, a product made by cooking collagen, is almost entirely protein, providing many of the amino acids necessary for keratin production.

The Amino Acid Profile of Gelatin

The unique amino acid profile of gelatin is what makes it a point of interest for hair health. It is particularly rich in glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline. While not a complete protein, as it lacks the essential amino acid tryptophan, gelatin's specific amino acid content is highly beneficial for the structures that contain collagen, including the scalp and hair.

Glycine: This amino acid is the richest found in gelatin and has various health benefits, including supporting cognitive function.
Proline and Hydroxyproline: These two amino acids are vital for the body's natural collagen production, which helps maintain the health and structure of hair, skin, and nails.

Scientific Evidence Linking Gelatin and Hair Health

Several studies have investigated the impact of gelatin or its parent compound, collagen, on hair. Some research suggests positive outcomes, while other sources note the need for more extensive studies specifically focused on gelatin.

Increased Hair Thickness: One study examining the effect of daily gelatin ingestion on human scalp hair found that participants experienced an average increase in hair diameter of about 11%. This suggests that gelatin supplementation can improve the mechanical properties and strength of individual hair strands.
Potential for Regrowth: Another study involving participants with alopecia, a form of hair loss, noted a significant increase in hair mass among those who took a gelatin supplement.
Reversibility of Deficiency: The good news is that hair loss resulting from protein deficiency is often reversible once adequate protein intake is restored. Consistent dietary changes are key to seeing improvements, which can take several months.

Gelatin vs. Hydrolyzed Collagen: A Nutritional Comparison

Gelatin is a partially hydrolyzed form of collagen, while many modern supplements use fully hydrolyzed collagen peptides. The difference in processing affects how they are absorbed and used by the body. The following table compares gelatin and hydrolyzed collagen peptides for nutritional purposes.


Feature	Gelatin	Hydrolyzed Collagen Peptides
Processing	Partially hydrolyzed (broken down) from collagen.	Fully hydrolyzed into smaller amino acid chains (peptides).
Molecular Size	Larger peptides.	Smaller, lighter peptides.
Absorption	Less effective for hair/skin renewal due to larger size.	More easily and quickly absorbed in the gut and bloodstream.
Dissolvability	Gels in liquid and only dissolves in hot water.	Dissolves easily in both hot and cold liquids.
Best Uses	Cooking, thickening agent in foods like desserts, gummies, and soups.	Supplements (powders, capsules) for convenient addition to beverages, smoothies, etc..

For those specifically targeting hair and skin renewal, hydrolyzed collagen peptides may offer a more efficient delivery of amino acids due to their superior absorption. However, gelatin still provides a similar nutritional profile of amino acids.

How to Incorporate Gelatin for Hair Health

Whether you opt for gelatin powder or a hydrolyzed collagen supplement, there are several ways to boost your intake. Since gelatin gels, it is often incorporated into specific foods, while supplements offer more versatility.

Bone Broth: A traditional source of gelatin, bone broth is made by simmering animal bones and connective tissues. It can be consumed as a flavorful and nutrient-rich drink.
DIY Gelatin Hair Masks: For external application, a homemade hair mask using gelatin can be created by mixing it with warm water and conditioner. This can help strengthen hair strands.
Desserts and Gummies: Make homemade gummies or add gelatin to desserts. For best results, bloom the gelatin in cold water before dissolving it into a warm liquid.
Beverages: Powdered gelatin can be stirred into hot beverages like tea or coffee. It must first be bloomed in a small amount of cold liquid before mixing into the hot liquid to prevent clumping.

Addressing Concerns and Limitations

While anecdotal evidence and some studies suggest a positive link, it is important to consider the limitations and potential downsides of using gelatin for hair growth.

Potential Side Effects

Gelatin is generally considered safe, but some people may experience mild side effects, especially with high dosages of supplements.

Digestive issues like bloating, burping, or heartburn.
An unpleasant taste in the mouth.
In rare cases, allergic reactions can occur.

Gelatin as an Incomplete Protein

As mentioned, gelatin is not a complete protein as it lacks certain essential amino acids, most notably tryptophan. This is not an issue if you consume a varied diet with other protein sources, but it means gelatin should not be relied upon as a sole protein source. A balanced diet rich in a variety of complete proteins, vitamins, and minerals is the most effective approach for overall hair health.

Conclusion

So, does gelatin affect hair growth? The evidence suggests that it can, primarily by providing the body with the specific amino acids needed to build and strengthen hair. As a protein-rich substance derived from collagen, gelatin offers valuable nutritional support for hair health, potentially increasing strand thickness and reducing breakage. However, it is not a magic bullet and should be part of a broader, balanced nutritional diet that includes a variety of complete protein sources and essential vitamins and minerals. For those seeking the most efficient delivery of collagen-derived amino acids, hydrolyzed collagen peptides might be a more readily absorbed option, but whole-food sources like bone broth and simple gelatin preparations offer accessible alternatives. Consult with a healthcare professional to determine if supplementation is appropriate for your specific needs.

For more information on the science behind proteins and hair health, see research compiled by the National Institutes of Health.

Frequently Asked Questions

It may take several months of consistent intake to notice visible changes in hair growth or thickness. Hair grows slowly, and recovery from a deficiency depends on its severity.

While both offer a similar amino acid profile, hydrolyzed collagen peptides are generally considered more efficient for hair and skin health due to their smaller, more easily absorbed molecular size.

No, gelatin is an incomplete protein because it lacks some essential amino acids, such as tryptophan. It should be consumed as part of a balanced diet that includes other protein sources.

Potential side effects of gelatin supplements are usually mild and can include digestive upset like bloating, belching, or heartburn. Allergic reactions are also possible in rare cases.

While a gelatin hair mask can help strengthen and add shine to existing hair by coating the strands, its direct impact on root-level hair growth is limited compared to consuming gelatin or collagen orally.

You can add gelatin powder to hot beverages like tea or coffee, use it to make bone broth, or create homemade desserts and gummies. Remember to 'bloom' the gelatin in a cold liquid first.

Yes, in rare cases, some individuals may experience an allergic reaction to gelatin, which is derived from animal products. If you have a known allergy or hypersensitivity to bovine products, it is important to be cautious.