Collagen is an incredibly important protein that keeps your tissues and bones together. Specifically for your skin, collagen helps give your skin structure and elasticity, or that famous “bounce.” So, in theory, boosting your skin's collagen levels — or preventing its loss — would help you look younger.
As you age, your body produces less collagen, leading to dry skin and the formation of wrinkles ( 5 ). However, several studies have shown that collagen peptides or supplements containing collagen may help slow the aging of your skin by reducing wrinkles and dryness.
The loss of collagen with age causes our skin to lose its firmness. There are options that can help rebuild collagen in your face for smoother, younger looking skin. Fine lines, wrinkles and sagging skin are all part of the natural aging process, and collagen, or lack of it, is often the culprit.
Collagen's role in the body
"Collagen is what keeps our skin from sagging, giving us that plump, youthful look," says dermatologist Dr. Ohara Aivaz. Your body naturally makes collagen, but this production decreases with age.
The amino acids found in collagen help keep your skin looking smooth, even, and healthy. To improve an uneven complexion, collagen is the answer. Collagen's amino acids can also help minimize the appearance of dark spots and scars from acne or other skin issues.
Any age can benefit from collagen. But since aging effects manifest later in life, collagen supplementation is advised to begin in the early 20s. You might find that the effects of aging set in more quickly if you lead a strenuous lifestyle.
Some research has found that taking daily collagen powder could help make your bones denser, slowing the aging process that makes them brittle and helping your body to produce new bone. Skin elasticity and hydration. Collagen supplements have been shown to improve skin hydration and elasticity for older people.
Does Collagen Tighten Saggy Skin? Studies have indicated that supplemental collagen is beneficial for skin health, including tightening sagging skin (known as elasticity), boosting hydration, and lessening the appearance of wrinkles.
It's a good idea to start collagen-stimulating treatments in your 20s to mitigate future collagen loss as your body starts losing more collagen during the late 20s. You want to create the strongest skin foundation possible while your skin cells are still functioning optimally.
Several studies have suggested that regular intake of collagen supplements can deliver noticeable improvements on the skin, resulting in a radiant, youthful glow. Skin produces less collagen with age, leading to dry skin and *gasp* wrinkles.
Some studies show that taking collagen supplements for several months can improve skin elasticity, (i.e., wrinkles and roughness) as well as signs of aging. Others have shown that consuming collagen can increase density in bones weakened with age and can improve joint, back and knee pain.
Collagen is a protein that makes up connective tissues, such as the skin. When you have too much collagen, your skin can stretch, thicken, and harden. It also can cause damage to internal organs, such as the heart, lungs, and kidneys.
Collagen supplements may not be safe for: People with fish, shellfish, or egg allergies (collagen supplements may contain these allergens as ingredients)16. People with a Kosher or Halal diet. People with a vegetarian or vegan diet.
So what's the best way to rebuild collagen in your face? Tretinoin, a prescription-grade retinoid, is an excellent treatment for rebuilding collagen. Almost 30 years ago, a small study showed that tretinoin application increases collagen by up to 80% in the skin after 1 year of treatment.
Once seniors reach the age of 65-70, collagen production starts to decline at about 30% per year. But, it's never too late for collagen!
A further 2021 meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials concluded that ingestion of hydrolyzed collagen for 3 months is effective at reducing skin ageing, as it reduces wrinkles and improves skin elasticity and hydration (4).
It Can Help to Protect Against Bone Loss
Bones are mostly made of collagen, so when our body ages and loses collagen, bone mass and bone strength suffer. Adding in a collagen supplement, along with other bone strengthening exercises and supplements, can help to prevent bone breakage.
The main reason people take collagen protein is to replenish their body's collagen stores and thereby improve their joint, skin, and hair health and improve muscle growth and recovery. Unfortunately, collagen protein is little more than a low-quality food that likely doesn't offer any special benefits.
Bottom line: Most people have 1 treatment and feel some tightening right away. It takes time for your body to make collagen, so you'll see the best results in about 6 months. Some people benefit from having more than 1 treatment. Results can last 2 to 3 years with the right skin care.
To increase skin's elasticity, firmness, and texture, and help prevent fine lines and wrinkles, studies show that taking up to 2.5 grams is effective. Here's a caveat: most users will find that they need less than 2.5 grams of hydrolyzed collagen to see skin-benefiting results.
If we discontinue collagen for a long time, troublesome problems with joints or lack of skin firmness can quickly return. Some people, instead of completely giving up our collagen, drink shots less frequently, e.g. every few days. It is also a great way to maintain the positive effects of its operation.
Collagen peptides have been safely used in doses up to 10 grams daily for up to 5 months.
Many of the studies available suggest that you'd be able to noticeably see improvements in skin elasticity, hydration, and density anywhere between 6 and 12 weeks of regular collagen supplementation.