Whether it's gut health, bone or joint strength or maybe the anti-ageing skin effects you're looking for, consistent use of a daily liquid collagen supplement as opposed to collagen cream is definitely the best way to achieve effective results.
Is it better to use collagen orally or topically? There are limited studies that detail the difference between using collagen orally or topically, but our experts agree that if you decide to use collagen in your skincare routine, using an oral supplement is the best route.
"Look for hydrolyzed collagen as this is broken down into amino acids and may be easier to absorb," she says. "Products with Types I and III collagen are also best, as these are the predominant collagen types in human skin, with the ratio shifting with age."
You can consume collagen by either eating it naturally through whole foods (e.g. bone broth, organ meats, etc.) or choosing hydrolyzed peptides in supplement form. Collagen has also been linked to skincare products and injections, but neither helps your body's collagen production — collagen protein must be ingested.
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.
As such, no matter your goal for using collagen, it will take at least 8 weeks to experience noticeable results ( 6 ). Most studies use a minimum of 8 weeks to assess collagen's effects on skin health and joint pain relief, but other studies use longer periods, such as 12 months, for bone health ( 9 , 14 , 22 ).
If you're taking collagen for the anti-aging benefits, look for type I, or a combo of type I and type III. Both are found in the skin and support skin health (think: improved skin hydration, firmness and texture, as well as fewer wrinkles, per a review study in 2019 in the journal Molecules).
Vital Proteins® Original Collagen Peptides
Jen Says: "My go-to collagen routine is adding Vital Proteins® Collagen Peptides ($27; shop now) in my morning cup of coffee or smoothie – so easy to use."
Collagen in a topical product is worthless
While topically applied collagen will moisturize the skin, that's about the extent of what it can do. Applying collagen topically has never been shown to stimulate collagen synthesis or growth.
How can I naturally rebuild collagen? You can naturally support the collagen production process by using topicals such as vitamin C and retinol, collagen peptide supplements, eating a nutrient rich diet, and avoiding habits that damage the collagen (such as poor sleep and sun exposure.)
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.
The 'Keeping Up With the Kardashians' star is the new global spokesperson and partner of Dose & Co collagen.
One key difference between collagen and collagen peptides is that one is a broken-down form of the other. Collagen peptides are made by breaking animal collagen down through hydrolysis. So, while collagen is a complete protein, collagen peptides are fragments of that protein.
Yes, you can take collagen forever. Collagen is a protein that is found in the connective tissues of animals. It is responsible for giving our skin its strength and elasticity. As we age, our skin begins to lose its collagen, which can lead to wrinkles, sagging skin, and dryness.
The recommended supplement intake of hydrolyzed collagen is 10g a day. The recommended intake of undenatured type II collagen is 40mg a day.
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).
Retinol Strength Vs Collagen Strength
There is no doubt about it that retinol is significantly stronger than collagen. This is because retinol penetrates down deep into your skin, tricking your body into thinking it's younger than it is.
Collagen prevents skin from sagging and gives it a plump, full look. Elastin helps skin return to its original shape after stretching or compressing.
After daily collagen supplementation for a few weeks, you will typically start to notice a few things: hair growth, skin hydration and skin moisture, improvement in joint health and skin health, lessening of fine lines, and other possible anti-aging improvements.
If you take too much collagen, it can throw off the balance of amino acids in your body and lead to side effects such as headaches, digestive issues, and fatigue. Additionally, some people may be allergic to collagen or have an intolerance to it.
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.
Aniston notes that collagen is essential in supporting healthy skin, nails, and joints — that's why she chooses to start her day off with collagen peptides. "My go-to collagen routine is adding Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides in my morning cup of coffee or smoothie — so easy to use," Aniston told Vital Proteins.
Collagen provides many benefits and making your skin look even more beautiful is one of them. It's no wonder Jennifer Lopez supplements with it! Outside of supplements, J Lo says she always gets asked about her glowing skin.