Can Collagen Really Turn Back the Clock on Aging?

Collagen's role in skin health is nothing short of transformative. It provides structure and elasticity, ensuring our skin remains firm and smooth. It's the most abundant protein in our body, serving as the scaffolding that supports our skin, bones, muscles, and tendons. Yet, as time marches on, this vital protein begins to wane.

The degradation of collagen fibers is a primary factor in the aging process, making it a focal point for anti-aging treatments. And in recent years the scientific and beauty communities alike have been abuzz with collagen supplements and treatments that promise to rejuvenate and restore youthful vigour. From topical treatments to ingestible supplements, the quest to boost collagen production is relentless. The allure is simple: by replenishing this essential protein, we can potentially turn back the clock, giving our skin a second lease on life.

While the dream is for our skin to plump back up after one use like Meryl Strep in Death becomes her (if you know the reference), but can collagen supplements truly deliver on its promise or is it merely a well-marketed dream? We will breakdown some of the science and efficacy of collagen products on the market, trying to navigate the facts and fictions.

Natural sources

Collagen is solely sourced from animals like fish, chickens, and cows, so unfortunately there is currently no vegetarian or vegan form of ready-made collagen. However "vegan collagen" products provide the necessary ingredients to boost the body’s own collagen production, containing key components such as vitamin C, vitamin E, and amino acids.

While supplements like gummies, powders, and capsules offer convenient collagen intake, incorporating natural sources through your diet can also support collagen production effectively. Foods such as citrus fruits, eggs, and leafy greens provide the non-essential amino acids and vitamins needed to support collagen production. While bone broth (fish, chicken or beef) can contribute to improved gut health, stimulate cartilage production, as well as supercharge your skin.

Supplementary Collagen options

The science has shown that topical application of collagen in skincare, while moisturising and supportive of overall skin health and appearance, cannot effectively penetrate the skin barrier to the required levels as the collagen molecules are too large. However incorporating a dietary supplement has been proven more effective. As the correct forms of collagen, specifically hydrolysed collagen which has been broken down into smaller molecules, can be easier to absorb into the bloodstream, enabling it to support renewed skin structure and improving elasticity. *

Choosing the right format for you

The key to adding any new supplement or practice to your routine successfully, and therefore seeing results, is consistency. This is why easy and convenient options such as sachets, gummies or capsules are the way to go! There are also some great powder options that can be added to water, smoothies or pre-work out.

Sachets