Does Collagen Really Work?

With every scroll through social media, it's hard to escape the endless stream of influencers touting the benefits of collagen. They promote their own brand of collagen or serve as ambassadors for various collagen products, leaving us intrigued and wondering: does collagen really work? And if so, which type should we choose?  I was fortunate enough to hear Dr Tim Crowe, Career Research Scientist speak on this very topic recently and with some really good research to back up Collagen use I can tell you that Collagen does actually work!

Collagen is a protein that naturally occurs in our bodies and contributes to the structural integrity of our skin, joints, and bones. As we age, our natural collagen production declines, leading to visible signs of aging, such as wrinkles and sagging skin. Supplementing with collagen can help replenish these declining levels and support the health and appearance of our skin, the caveat is that it needs to be the right type of collagen and the correct doseage. .While there are various types of collagen, each with its own set of benefits the sad news for our Vegan and vegetarian friends is that the only way to get collagen is from animal products . The most common types of collagen found in supplements are bovine (derived from cows), porcine (derived from pigs), marine (derived from fish), and chicken (derived from poultry). Understanding the source of collagen can help you make an informed decision based on your dietary preferences and potential allergies

Collagen, the most abundant protein in our bodies, plays a crucial role in maintaining the health and appearance of our skin. It provides structure, firmness, and elasticity, making our skin look plump and youthful. However, as we age, the production of collagen naturally declines, leading to the formation of wrinkles, sagging skin, and a loss of that vibrant glow we once had.

This is where collagen supplementation comes into play. By incorporating collagen into your daily routine, you can help replenish your body's collagen levels, ultimately supporting your skin's structural integrity and elasticity. As a result, you may notice reduced wrinkles, increased skin firmness, and a more radiant complexion.

So not sure which collagen supplement is good?  Formulated specifically for skin health is Metagenics Collagenics Advanced. VERISOL collagen peptides, which are the key component of Collagenics Advanced. VERISOL collagen peptides consist predominantly of type 1 collagen, the primary collagen type found in the skin. By providing your body with this specific type of collagen, Collagenics Advanced supports your skin's natural collagen production, helping to improve its firmness, elasticity, and overall appearance.

Collagenics Advanced also harnesses the power of Hyaluronic Acid, a superstar ingredient known for its ability to support skin hydration. Hyaluronic Acid acts as a moisture magnet, attracting and retaining water within the skin cells, resulting in a plumper, more hydrated complexion. By including Hyaluronic Acid in its formulation, Collagenics Advanced ensures that your skin receives the hydration it needs to maintain a healthy and supple appearance.

Nicotinamide, also known as Vitamin B3, is another notable ingredient in Collagenics Advanced. This nutrient plays a vital role in reducing the formation of free radicals in the body. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage skin cells and contribute to premature aging. By incorporating Nicotinamide into its formulation, Collagenics Advanced offers a line of defense against these harmful free radicals, helping to preserve your skin's youthful vitality.

Last but certainly not least, Collagenics Advanced packs a punch with the inclusion of Vitamin C. This powerhouse nutrient is well-known for its antioxidant properties, helping to neutralize free radicals and protect the skin from oxidative stress. Moreover, Vitamin C plays a vital role in supporting skin repair and regeneration, aiding in the synthesis of collagen and promoting a smoother, more even-toned complexion. With Vitamin C as part of Collagenics Advanced, you can optimize your skin's healing processes and enhance its overall radiance.

While collagen itself works wonders, it's important to remember that a holistic approach to skincare is always beneficial. Your diet plays a significant role in the overall health of your skin, and certain nutrients can contribute to a healthy glow. Two such nutrients are beta carotene and lycopenes.

Beta carotene, found abundantly in carrots, sweet potatoes, and leafy greens, is converted by the body into vitamin A. This powerful antioxidant helps protect the skin against damage caused by free radicals and promotes cell turnover, resulting in a more youthful complexion. Including these foods in your diet can give your skin an extra boost of radiance from within.

Lycopenes, on the other hand, are plant pigments responsible for the vibrant red color found in tomatoes, watermelons, and pink grapefruits. Like beta carotene, lycopenes are potent antioxidants that can shield your skin from environmental stressors, such as UV radiation. Studies have suggested that lycopene consumption may reduce the risk of sunburn giving you an all year round SPF of about 4 and even improve skin texture. So, next time you're in the mood for a juicy tomato or a refreshing slice of watermelon, remember that your skin will thank you too!

Incorporating collagen supplementation, along with a diet rich in beta carotene and lycopenes, can work synergistically to enhance your skin's health and appearance.  In fact one of the studies showed that people found images of those taking collagen, carotenes and lycopenes healthier looking and more attractive that those with who did not even when they had a tan!

While there is no magical fountain of youth, incorporating collagen supplementation, along with a nutrient-rich diet and a consistent skincare routine, can significantly improve your skin's health and give you that desired healthy glow.