Collagen's role in the body Collagen is a protein that serves as one of the main building blocks for your bones, skin, hair, muscles, tendons, and ligaments. "Collagen is what keeps our skin from sagging, giving us that plump, youthful look," says dermatologist Dr. Ohara Aivaz.
Collagen can help to reverse signs of skin aging by boosting elasticity in the skin. Drinking collagen powder can also help repair damaged skin and scarring, which seniors are more prone to than younger individuals.
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. This is because collagens have molecular weights making them too large to penetrate the top layer of skin.
Hydrolyzed collagen is the type often mentioned when it comes to skin benefits. Hydrolyzed collagen is very digestible and therefore readily absorbed by the body. Collagen is a protein.
More collagen means fewer wrinkles and smooth, lifted skin. Here are the topical products, in-office treatments, and lifestyle habits to practice for a healthier-looking complexion now.
Collagen's role in the body
Collagen is a protein that serves as one of the main building blocks for your bones, skin, hair, muscles, tendons, and ligaments. "Collagen is what keeps our skin from sagging, giving us that plump, youthful look," says dermatologist Dr. Ohara Aivaz.
Studies show that it takes about 6 to 12 weeks of regular supplementation to see noticeable improvements in your skin, including its elasticity, hydration and density. One factor that contributes to why collagen is taking its time to provide results is its low dosage amount through your supplements intake [2].
Several different studies have shown that consuming collagen peptides might help older people with bone and skin health during the process of aging. Collagen peptides are collagen that's broken into small parts for easy absorption. A study involved 102 postmenopausal women who were suffering from low BMD.
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.
Moreover, types I and III collagen stimulate the production of amino acids, in particular glycine. Glycine is the amino acid that is responsible for building the muscles and burning fat. Type I collagen is usually considered best for the skin.
Yes, because both collagen and retinol have anti-aging properties. However, retinol is a more potent anti-aging product, so it's better for those with deep-set wrinkles. Collagen is better for those with fewer and finer wrinkles. You can also use either collagen or retinol for the bags under your eyes.
Zeichner recommends topical treatments — as opposed to ingesting collagen — to really see a difference. But that doesn't mean literally applying collagen topically, even though there are plenty of topical products that feature it as an ingredient.
Whether it's an ingestible or topical form of collagen skincare, Graf says you can use it any time of the day, morning or night. As a moisturizer, collagen cream can be applied either once or twice a day, according to Graf. For either form, it's best to follow the manufacturer's instructions.
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.)
AT WHAT AGE SHOULD I TAKE COLLAGEN SUPPLEMENTS? 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 studies have shown that supplemental collagen is beneficial for skin health, including tightening sagging skin, boosting hydration, and lessening the appearance of wrinkles.
Collagen supplements are not safe for everyone because there are dangerous side effects and serious quality issues. You can keep taking it, but just know this. It has downsides and serious side effects including diarrhea, bloating, allergic reactions, cramps and other digestive issues.
While some people taking collagen report improvements in signs of skin aging, joint, knee and arthritic pain, osteoarthritis symptoms, muscle mass and strength, scientific studies have reported varying results on the effectiveness of collagen supplementation.
Firstly, you may see an improvement in your skin within the second month of use, but for complete results, you should consistently consume collagen supplements for at least three months. Collagen supplements can take anywhere from 12 weeks to six months according to robust small studies.
No matter your age, it's never too late to start supporting your body's production of collagen and to see the benefits in your skin, hair, and nails. Collagen is the protein responsible for smooth and firm skin, resilient nails, and strong hair.
To reap the benefits for skin health, the research recommends that you take between 2.5 to 5 grams of collagen per day (2). This amount is shown to increase skin elasticity and hydration in elderly women while reducing the depth of existing skin wrinkles in middle-aged women.
Collagen supplements may not be safe for: People with fish, shellfish, or egg allergies (collagen supplements may contain these allergens as ingredients)16.
The fast, visible results of collagen supplementation start with a consistent routine. Keep to it and in as soon as 12 weeks, skin is firmer, hair is thicker, and nails are stronger. The results are worth the wait.
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.
Taking collagen may improve the health of your scalp and hair, but there isn't much objective evidence that it will result in hair growth for everyone who takes it. Other potential collagen benefits include improvements in the health of skin, joints and bones.