Should You Take Collagen as a Supplement?

What is Collagen and Why Does It Matter for Skin and Joint Health?

Collagen is a protein that is found within the connective tissue of our skin, hair, muscles, joints, and blood vessels. We know collagen is involved in maintaining the structure, durability and strength of our skin, and over the years there has been a rise in the number of collagen supplements, whether they be powders to add to smoothies, or in a capsule form.

Vitamin C plays a role in the production of collagen, however as we age the production of collagen decreases. This is one of the reasons why we develop wrinkles and maybe even achy joints. 

Is Adding Collagen Supplements to Your Diet Effective for Skin Health?

Currently, we do not have any robust evidence to confirm that the collagen that you may take as a supplement will be converted into structural collagen for our skin. We must keep in mind as well, that it’s not just our skin that contains collagen, but the list mentioned above. There is no evidence that collagen supplements will target the skin cells on our face, so there is limited evidence to support the need of supplementing collagen.

How Collagen Supplements are Digested and Used by the Body

As mentioned above collagen is a protein, which means that when we consume it, it will be broken down into amino acids (which are the building blocks for proteins), absorbed and used however our body needs those amino acids.  Ensure that you are consuming enough protein in your diet, along with vitamin C, and having a wide variety of foods, to help with your skin health (and collagen synthesis) as much as possible. 

 

What About Collagen Containing Skincare Products?

Lotions that claim to increase your collagen levels due to containing collagen are unlikely to be able to achieve this. A collagen molecule is too large to be absorbed through our skin. You may find your skin feels different after using, but this may just be due to the product moisturising your skin.

 

 

Credit to David Loftus

 

Collagen-Boosting Skincare Ingredients and Their Role in Skin Health

While collagen supplements may not directly impact the collagen levels in your skin, certain skincare ingredients can help to promote collagen synthesis. Here are some key ingredients that your should look for in your skincare routine:

Vitamin C 

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant, and as mentioned above plays an important role in collagen synthesis. It helps to stimulate collagen production and protects against free radicals that can damage collagen fibres.

The Lucy Bee Face Serum with Vitamin C contains a stable form of vitamin C to help your skin.

Retinoids (Retinol, Retinoid Derivatives and alternatives)

Retinoids are known for their ability to increase cell turnover and stimulate collagen synthesis. Regular use can help to reduce the appearance of fine line and wrinkles, helping to leave skin looking smoother and firmer.

The Lucy Bee Retinol Alternative Anti-Ageing Eye Cream, uses a botanical alternative to retinol that helps to stimulate collagen synthesis without the irritation and redness. Our Anti-Ageing Facial Oil contains pink microalgae which helps to prevent glycation in the skin, glycation can cause loss of elasticity, wrinkles and pigmentation in the skin. This oil helps to leave skin looking more radiant. 

Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic acid doesn't directly increase collagen synthesis, it does help to keep skin hydrated and plump. Skin that is well hydrated helps to support collagen synthesis.

You can find hyaluronic acid or one of its derivatives in the range, including our, Reviving Cleansing Cream, Exfoliating Tonic, Radiance-Boosting Face Cream, SPF 30 Face Serum.

SPF 

One of the most important products which helps to protect your skin's collagen is SPF. UV rays can break down collagen and elastin in the skin, leading to premature skin ageing, wrinkles and fine lines. Daily use of a broad-spectrum SPF, like our SPF 30 Face Serum with hyaluronic acid can help to protect your skin's collagen and elastin from damage.

Conclusion: Do Collagen Supplements Really Work for You

It’s not worth spending your money on collagen supplements, some people may find that it helps them, but this could be due to a placebo effect, or something else. Currently, however, the evidence does not support the need for collagen supplements to help with our collagen levels, instead opt to focussing on your protein intake, you can read our blog here which covers all you need to know about protein.

 

Daisy, MSc PGDip ANutr, is a Registered Associate Nutritionist with a Master's Degree in Public Health Nutrition, and a Post Graduate Diploma in Eating Disorders and Clinical Nutrition, both of which are Association for Nutrition (AFN) accredited. She, also, has a BSc degree in Psychology and Cognitive Neuroscience; and has completed an AFN accredited Diet Specialist Nutrition course.

Daisy has worked for an NHS funded project, the Diabetes Prevention Programme; and shadowed a nutritionist in Harley Street. 

About Lucy Bee Limited

Any information provided by us is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease. We always recommend referring your health queries to a qualified medical practitioner.

Lucy Bee is a lifestyle brand selling food, skincare and soap products all completely free from palm oil and with minimal use of plastic. Lucy Bee is concerned with Fair Trade, organic, ethical and sustainable living, recycling and empowering people to make informed choices and select quality, natural products for their food and their skin.