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Do Collagen Supplements Work?
The collagen supplements market is growing at pace, with numerous products promising improved skin elasticity and fewer signs of ageing. But with so many options out there, it can be tricky to discern the facts from the marketing hype. And to narrow down the best products for your needs. With that in mind, in this guide, we’ll be exploring the science behind whether collagen supplements actually work and the potential benefits of taking them. That way, you can decide whether it’s worth incorporating them into your daily routine. Let’s get started!
8 Minutes read
Posted on 5 Sep 2024
What is collagen and why is it important?
Collagen is a protein in the body that works to maintain the integrity of our skin, hair, bones, muscles, ligaments and more. It provides structure and support to these tissues to keep them strong and healthy, and aids repair as needed. And in the case of our skin, collagen also preserves moisture and plumpness – both key factors for youthful looking skin.
The most common forms of collagen include Type 1 which is found in all of our connective tissues. This makes up around 90% of the collagen in our bodies. Then there’s Type 2, which is found in the cartilage surrounding our joints and is crucial for flexibility. Whilst Type 3 is the main element of reticular fibres that heal wounds, later turning into stronger Type 1.
As you can see, each collagen type has a vital role to play. But unfortunately, our body’s ability to produce collagen decreases as we age. And this comes with multiple downsides, from visible wrinkles to aching joints and even thinning hair. In fact, according to dermatologists, our skin loses thickness and strength each year from age 25 onwards. This is because our bodies are unable to replace the collagen breaking down at a quick enough rate. So what can we do?
Can dietary changes boost collagen?
The short answer is yes. Our bodies create collagen from protein-rich foods which are broken down into amino acids when digested. This includes foods like pork or chicken, bone broth and oily fish, plus eggs and dairy products. Similarly, vitamin C rich foods, like citrus fruits, peppers and broccoli, also support collagen synthesis to promote skin and joint health.
However, the digestive enzymes we need to produce new proteins like collagen lessen as we get older. Hence why simply eating more of these nutrients may not significantly raise your body’s collagen levels in the long term. And why it could be worth investigating collagen supplements and their effectiveness further…
How do collagen supplements work?
Collagen supplements work by providing our bodies with the necessary building blocks to produce collagen. As it can’t be absorbed in whole form, the collagen must be broken down into peptides (amino acids) before consumption. Supplements therefore contain digestible hydrolysed collagen which has been broken down into small pieces that dissolve in water.
This makes for easier absorption into the bloodstream and eventually, the skin dermis. And it’s also a simple way for the user to take the supplement compared to riskier collagen injections. Instead, all you need to do is add water to one supplement shot per day, stir well and drink!
The aim is to encourage new collagen production to address the root cause of skin ageing. This in turn can result in firmer, plumper and more supple skin with a smoother texture and fewer fine lines after just several months. And you may see improvements in your hair, nails and joints too, as collagen levels are restored in other areas. We’ll come back to these points later when discussing: do collagen supplements really work? So stay tuned or skip to the end.
What are collagen supplements made from?
The most common source of collagen for supplements is bovine collagen, which is derived from beef. It is usually made up of Type I and Type lll collagen, processed to create a supplement that can be easily mixed into drinks. And it is thought to be highly effective when it comes to improving skin and joint health. Totally Derma is our best-selling bovine collagen supplement and its formula also contains Vitamin C for added health benefits.
Other supplements are made from marine collagen, derived from the skin and scales of cold-water fish. This typically contains Type I collagen and is therefore ideal for supporting the skin and bones. It’s also suitable for those following a pescatarian diet and for anyone seeking a more sustainable option, as it is a by-product that would otherwise be discarded. Rejuvenated Collagen Shots are our most popular marine collagen supplements, with extra vitamins and minerals. Namely antioxidant Acai berry, zinc, copper and hydration-boosting hyaluronic acid.
Alternatively, if you have an allergy or are vegan, our Rejuvenated Skin Perfecting Complex includes lots of collagen-promoting yet animal-product-free alternatives.
Potential health benefits of collagen supplements
- Youthful-looking skin and improved skin health – better hydration and elasticity
- Nourished hair, skin, lashes and nails
- Improved muscle health by helping to repair, build, and lead to a quicker recovery period after workouts
- Relief from joint and bone pain and faster wound healing
- Can help improve gut health and digestion
What the science says: do collagen supplements work?
A review conducted by the International Journal of Dermatology recently assessed 19 collagen supplement studies to determine their effectiveness. Over 1100 participants took part in the research, with positive outcomes including improved skin firmness, increased moisture content and reduced visibility of wrinkles. However, as with our products, other ingredients featured in the supplements too, which may have contributed to the results.
It’s therefore worth checking what’s included in each formula and whether the extras are relevant to what you’re trying to achieve. For example, copper can promote normal skin pigmentation, while Vitamin B5 helps to attract and retain moisture.
Another advantage of supplements is that the hydrolysed collagen used is undoubtedly easier for the body to absorb versus food proteins. This increases the likelihood of stimulating collagen production and is arguably more effective than collagen-rich skin creams that may not penetrate deep enough.
One downside, however, is that you can’t control where the body will deposit the new collagen that’s created. As such, there’s no precise way to target specific areas – for instance, to smooth cellulite. Similarly, you can’t reverse deep-set wrinkles that have already formed. And there’s currently limited evidence that supplements will reduce joint pain. However, collagen supplements are relatively safe with few known side effects, so it’s worth giving them a try!
For the best chance of success, we’d recommend opting for a high-strength formula like our Rejuvenated Collagen Shots. Particularly if you’d like to slow the signs of ageing before they develop, such as fine lines and sagging skin. Consistency is also key, so remember to take your daily supplement for a minimum of 8 weeks before assessing the results.
Ready to get started? Browse our complete range of skin supplements online. Or email advice@dermacaredirect.co.uk to have your questions answered by our skincare experts.
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