Everything You Actually Wanted To Know About Collagen

We’ve all seen the word collagen in nearly every protein supplement, skincare serums, and all across social media – but what is the hype and why is everyone suddenly taking it like it’s the secret ingredient to eternal youth?

What was once a term only seen in science books and in dermatologist offices, collagen has officially gone mainstream. From glowing younger looking skin to stronger nails and hair, beauty lovers are calling it a daily essential, and might possibly be a new replacement for Botox?

But what really is collagen, and should we really be taking this magic supplement?

So, what is collagen?

Collagen is one of the body’s most vital proteins. It acts as the building blocks for our skin, bones, and muscles. It provides firmness, strength, and elasticity in the skin, which contributes to reducing wrinkles in the skin. It also plays a role in replacing dead skin cells to keep our skin looking fresh, while also having benefits regarding joint and bone health.

Collagen is produced naturally in our skin, but as we start to hit our mid twenties and early thirties, our bodies start producing less collagen – which is the start of the natural aging process. As we edge towards our forties, the decline in collagen production becomes more rapid, often leading to loss of firmness in the skin, loss of facial volume, and weakened hair and nails.

@ellesera.inc Why you need Collagen – from the Queen of collagen Maxine @absolutecollagen ♬ original sound – Elle Sera

What supplements should we be taking?

If you have decided it’s time to bring collagen back into your body but are not too sure where to start – don’t worry, we have all the info broken down!

Since our bodies stop producing collagen, we must look elsewhere for the protein to add it into our supplements. There are 3 main types, which include bovine from cows, marine that come from fish and porcine which is linked to pigs. The collagen is taken from either their bones or scales, and placed into traditional supplements with other skin loving vitamins.

While these extracts aren’t vegan friendly, there are plant alternatives. These aren’t necessarily a true form of collagen but have ingredients that will help our skin to pick up the production of collagen. These collagens can then be placed into many different forms of supplements.

If you’re only beginning this collagen journey, it can be overwhelming to pick which form of supplements to try that will slot perfectly into your daily routine. Here is the low down on each one, and some products to try.

Powder supplements

Powder supplements can easily be added to water and taken at any time of the day. They are convenient to mix up in the morning and take with out to sip throughout the day – ideal for those who are on the go!

An Irish brand that is leading the way in powdered collagen is Herology. Created by Dr Michelle Hone and Dr Sarah Kelly, there collagen supplements contain marine collagen and vitamin C, along with Verisol, which is a clinically studied form of biotech hydrologic collagen peptides that will have your skin looking younger and hydrated. The formulation is berry flavoured, making it easy to drink. Each box has 30 sachets and retails for €49.95.

Tablet form

Tablet forms of collagen are arguably the easiest and most convenient ones to take. Just one tablet each day is all you need to enjoy all the benefits of collagen and means you don’t have to worry about it till the next day. If you already take vitamins, these tablet forms will be the perfect choice for you. Time efficient, easy and no fuss!

Collagen Complex have glowing reviews online. Not only do the capsules help with the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles but they include vitamins like hydrologic acid to help bring hydration back to the skin, zinc, vitamins C and many more which can help with overall immune health and function – the perfect all rounder supplements. A tub of 60 capsules will cost €35.

Skincare

If you are a skincare lover, incorporating creams with collagen boosting ingredients might just be a good fit for you. With many gorgeous creams on the market, it can be a nice way to start your morning with your skin feeling fresh and ready for the day, or to help you wind down in the evening. There is no need to be remembering to pack pouches and vitamins any time you go away, because everything you need for younger looking skin will be right there in your beauty bag.

The Elemis-Pro Collagen Marine Cream with SPF 30 is a star product. With amazing results and stunning reviews, it is a lightweight cream that can be used in the morning before heading off for the day. With the added SPF, you can have peace of mind knowing your skin is being protected from the sun. This product retails for around €90.

If you are looking for a product that is Irish owned and loved, then Green Angel’s Seaweed and Collagen Face Cream is a definite winner. With Irish seaweed extracts added to the formula, you can be guaranteed fresh and younger looking skin that has an incredible glow. This cream costs €35.

As we start to get older it’s important to look after our skin, not just for younger looking benefits, but to keep us glowing and healthy as we navigate through all stages of life!