Is it time to take collagen supplements?
Why you’ll want this wonder supplement in your routine ASAP.
Let’s talk about collagen.
Known as the structural protein in our skin, it is responsible for making us look youthful and taut, and for preventing the appearance of fine lines and the signs of sagging. It is naturally-occurring deep within our dermis, but it does start to decline in our mid-20s. This is because aging is considered a primary factor in collagen depletion. Other factors include UV exposure, air pollution, cigarette smoking, alcohol consumption, stress, as well as inflammation-triggering diets—specifically ones that are high in sugar. High carb-diets and consuming processed meats are damaging for collagen, too, and contribute to premature aging.
The good thing is, thanks to scientific advancements in the anti-aging arena, we can help our skin bounce back—literally—specifically by incorporating collagen into our routines.
We could take the easy route by using skincare products formulated with collagen, however, according to our resident dermatologist and Philippine Dermatological Society (PDS) fellow, Dr. Maximin Navarro, we might not get the results we’re hoping for. “Collagen is a large molecule—most of the collagen contained in topical products and creams are too large to pass through your skin for absorption,” he explains. “More recently, manufacturers claim to have solved this problem by introducing collagen molecules which have been broken down into smaller fragments—soluble collagen. This new-age collagen is able to penetrate the skin’s surface to exert its effects. [However,] the small fragments do little to your skin; they are too small to be able to function as useful collagen in the skin. At best, they hydrate your skin and temporarily improve its appearance.”
To get more bang for our buck, he suggests we take collagen orally instead. “The preliminary results of studies are promising for the short- and long-term use of oral collagen supplements for wound healing and skin aging. Oral collagen supplements also increase skin elasticity, hydration, and dermal collagen density.”
Choosing the best collagen for your skin
Collagen is often sourced from different animal sources: chicken, fish (marine collagen), pigs, and cows (bovine collagen). The most common ones are marine and bovine collagen.
According to Dr. Navarro, “Marine collagen is a better source of type 1 collagen, the most abundant type of collagen in the human body. It has a higher bioavailability, which means it is often broken down into smaller peptides, which are amounts that are easier for the body to use. Studies suggest that type 1 collagen is the better option if you want to maintain skin firmness and elasticity, reduce wrinkles, and rebuild tissues.” However, there is a catch: “It may give off a fishy taste, but it’s easy to mask by adding the supplement to coffee or tea.”
On the other hand, there’s also bovine collagen. Dr Navarro enthuses that “if you’re looking for overall joint and bone health, bovine collagen is the superior option. Patients with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis benefit from it, and it may also help you increase strength and athletic performance.” However, he explains, “if you’re more concerned about skin health and care, then marine collagen may be a better option for you.”
Derma-approved collagen sources
Ready to start reaping all the benefits of ingestible collagen and get skin that glows from within? We recommend starting with these:
This collagen drink combines the anti-aging collagen with hyaluronic acid, co-enzyme Q10, elastin, and ceramide to deliver a slew of health benefits aside from improving your skin.
This contains a concentrated amount of marine collagen to directly benefit your skin. You only have to drink this for the first six days of the month for three months to see the effects.
These tablets contain multiple molecules of collagen to make sure you’re getting everything your skin needs and more.
If you’re looking to give your joints a boost, Genacol is the way to go. Its AminoLock Collagen maintains healthy cartilage and reduces joint pain associated with osteoarthritis, while Glucosamine improves the quality of synovial fluid, a natural lubricant for the joints.
Bone Broth
Looking for a more natural, home alternative? Bone broths are chock full of collagen benefits for the skin, and drinking these regularly and incorporating it into your diet will supplement collagen treatments wonderfully.
Collagen is a wonderful way to supplement your beauty routine—helping you get that glow from the inside out. Want to learn more about collagen or have any skincare concerns? You can book a virtual dermatological consultation with Dr. Maximin Navarro, our resident dermatologist and a Philippine Dermatological Society (PDS) fellow, here. You can also inquire at the Bella Pelle Skin Solutions Center via (+63) 999-887-1944.
Read this story to discover how you can have firmer, younger-looking skin. Learn about the finest skincare products thoughtfully selected for you by Bella Pelle Philippines here.
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