Collagen vs. Keratin — What's the Difference?

The primary structural component found in tendons and ligaments.

A protective protein primarily found in hair and nails.

A protein responsible for skin elasticity and firmness.

Often utilized in hair treatments for a frizz-free appearance.

Commonly used in skincare to combat signs of aging.

An insoluble protein that offers strength and resilience.

A vital protein for maintaining bone strength.

Keratin () is one of a family of fibrous structural proteins known as scleroproteins. α-Keratin is a type of keratin found in vertebrates.

A gelatinous substance derived from animal connective tissues.

A fibrous protein forming the main structural constituent of hair, feathers, hoofs, claws, horns, etc.

Collagen () is the main structural protein in the extracellular matrix found in the body's various connective tissues. As the main component of connective tissue, it is the most abundant protein in mammals, making up from 25% to 35% of the whole-body protein content.

Any of a class of filamentous proteins that are abundant in the cytoskeleton of vertebrate epithelial cells and are the main constituents of the outer layer of skin and tough epidermal structures such as hair, nails, hooves, feathers, and claws.

The main structural protein found in skin and other connective tissues, widely used in purified form for cosmetic surgical treatments

Material composed principally of keratin proteins.

Any of a class of extracellular proteins that are composed of three coiled polypeptide chains, form strong fibers, and are the main constituents of cartilage, bone, and other connective tissues in animals.

(protein) The protein of which hair and nails are composed.

Material composed principally of collagen proteins. Collagen is converted into gelatin when boiled in water.

A sulfur-containing fibrous protein constituting the main structural protein of hard epidermal tissues, such as horn, hair, feathers, nails, claws, hoofs, and the like. It is an insoluble substance, and, unlike elastin, is not dissolved even by gastric or pancreatic juice. By decomposition with sulphuric acid it yields leucine and tyrosine plus various other acid-stable amino acids. The amino acid composition varies, but it usually has a high percentage of cystine, which stabilizes and insolubilizes the protein by forming intrachain linkages. A softer form of keratin is present in the epidermis and whalebone. Called also epidermose.

(biochemistry) Any of more than 28 types of glycoprotein that form elongated fibers, usually found in the extracellular matrix of connective tissue.

A fibrous scleroprotein that occurs in the outer layer of the skin and in horny tissues such as hair feathers nails and hooves

The chemical basis of ordinary connective tissue, as of tendons or sinews and of bone. On being boiled in water it becomes gelatin or glue.

Present in the outermost layer of skin for protection.

A fibrous scleroprotein in bone and cartilage and tendon and other connective tissue; yields gelatin on boiling

A fibrous protein that provides structure to epithelial cells.

Traditionally, Collagen is animal-derived, but there are now vegan alternatives made from genetically modified yeast and bacteria.

Yes, Keratin treatments can smooth and straighten curly hair, reducing frizz.

Keratin products can strengthen and restore the hair's protective layer, improving its appearance.

Generally, Collagen supplements are considered safe, but it's always best to consult a healthcare provider.

Yes, Collagen provides structure and elasticity, while Keratin offers protection in the skin's outer layer.

Yes, there are multiple types of Collagen, with Type I, II, and III being the most common in the body.

Depending on hair type and desired results, treatments are typically done every few months.

Some people might experience skin irritation or allergies, and some treatments may contain formaldehyde, a known carcinogen.

Yes, the body naturally produces both, but production can decrease with age.

Keratin-infused shampoos can strengthen hair and reduce breakage, but results may vary.

Prolonged sun exposure can weaken Keratin in the skin, leading to damage.

Some studies suggest Collagen supplements can alleviate joint pain, but more research is needed.

Collagen production decreases with age, leading to wrinkles and reduced skin elasticity.

While Collagen's primary benefits are for skin and joints, some believe it can also improve hair health.

Foods rich in protein, biotin, and antioxidants can support Keratin production.