Biotin vs Collagen: What’s Better for Hair and Scalp Health?
When it comes to supporting hair health from the inside out, two ingredients often come up in conversation: biotin and collagen. Both have become popular additions to wellness routines, particularly for those experiencing changes in hair growth, texture, or thickness. But how do they compare? And which one is better for your hair?
In this article, we explore the key differences between biotin and collagen, what the science says, and which one may be more suitable depending on your hair needs.
What Is Biotin?
Biotin, also known as Vitamin B7, is a water-soluble B-vitamin that helps the body convert food into energy. It plays a recognised role in supporting the health of hair, skin, and nails.
UK-Approved Health Claim:
Biotin contributes to the maintenance of normal hair and skin.
This makes biotin a popular ingredient in hair supplements, especially for people experiencing hair shedding, thinning, or breakage linked to nutritional gaps, stress, or hormonal shifts.
It’s also worth noting that while biotin supports normal hair health, it does not make hair grow faster — a common misconception. It simply helps maintain healthy hair conditions, particularly when someone may be deficient or under stress.
What Is Collagen?
Collagen is a protein — in fact, the most abundant protein in the body — and forms a major structural component of the skin, bones, and connective tissues. In relation to hair, collagen provides structural support to the dermis (the thickest layer of the skin where hair follicles reside).
While there are no direct health claims approved in the UK or EU for collagen relating specifically to hair, some studies suggest that collagen may support scalp health by improving skin elasticity, hydration, and protection against oxidative stress.
Collagen levels naturally decline with age, which may indirectly impact the scalp environment. However, most collagen supplements on the market are hydrolysed collagen peptides, often sourced from marine or bovine origins, and their effectiveness can vary depending on the individual and formulation.
Biotin vs Collagen: Key Differences
| Biotin | Collagen | |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Vitamin (B7) | Structural Protein |
| Role in Hair | Maintains normal hair and skin | Supports scalp structure and skin health |
| UK Health Claim | ✔ Yes – contributes to normal hair & skin | ✘ No hair-specific claims approved |
| Common Use | Hair shedding, stress-related hair issues | Ageing skin, scalp hydration, joint & skin support |
| Vegan-Friendly | ✔ Yes (in gummy form) | ✘ Often animal-derived (marine or bovine sources) |
Which One Should You Take?
The answer depends on your personal needs and goals:
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If your concern is hair shedding, hormonal changes, or stress-related hair loss, biotin may be more directly supportive.
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If you're looking to improve skin elasticity and scalp hydration, especially as part of ageing-related care, collagen may offer complementary benefits.
Both can be used together, but we always recommend speaking with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement — especially if you are under medical supervision or undergoing treatment.
Our Approach: Why We Use Biotin
At Laura Simmons, we include biotin in our hair gummies because of its evidence-backed role in maintaining normal hair, skin and nails, and its popularity among customers who want gentle, routine support.
Our gummies contain the safe, recommended amount of biotin — no megadosing, no exaggeration. Many people take them confidently as part of their wellness routine, and they are suitable for daily use by most adults.
We want you to feel informed and empowered, not overwhelmed by trends. That’s why our products are always made with your wellbeing in mind — and grounded in real science.
A Note on Blood Tests and Biotin
If you're taking any supplement that includes biotin, including ours, it's important to know that biotin may temporarily interfere with certain blood tests. For this reason, it's generally advised to stop taking biotin 72 hours before a blood test — and always let your healthcare provider know what supplements you’re using.
Final Thoughts
Biotin and collagen both offer benefits for the skin and hair — but they work differently. Biotin supports normal hair growth by helping to maintain healthy hair and skin, while collagen supports the scalp structure more indirectly through skin health.
Choosing between them isn't always necessary. What matters most is finding a supplement that aligns with your individual needs — and using it as part of a consistent, supportive routine.
If you’re unsure what’s right for you, we always recommend checking in with a healthcare professional who understands your health history.