The Rise of ‘Edible Skincare’: Are Collagen Supplements the Future of Beauty?
Interest in collagen supplements is booming. Searches for ‘marine collagen’ on Boots.com have increased by 227 per cent year-on-year, and overall collagen sales are up 62 per cent. Globally, a box of Vida Glow’s marine collagen is reportedly sold every four seconds.
What Exactly *Is* Collagen?
Collagen is the body’s most abundant protein, acting as a vital structural component for skin, muscles, bones, and connective tissues. Dr. Anjali Mahto, a consultant dermatologist, describes it as the ‘scaffolding’ that keeps skin plump and hair healthy.
A Vida Glow customer whose hair began to reappear after treatment.
Bovine vs. Marine Collagen: What’s the Difference?
Collagen isn’t a one-size-fits-all protein. Bovine collagen is derived from cow skin, whereas marine collagen is extracted from fish scales.
Why Does Collagen Decline with Age?
Collagen production naturally decreases in our 20s. This decline is influenced by genetics and accelerated by factors like UV exposure, smoking, and excessive sugar intake. Women experience a significant drop – around 30 per cent – in collagen levels after menopause due to declining oestrogen levels, leading to skin sagging and wrinkles.
How Do Collagen Supplements Work?
Marine collagen is considered highly bioavailable, meaning the body can easily absorb and utilize it. Vida Glow’s marine collagen is ‘hydrolysed’, breaking down larger molecules into smaller peptides for improved absorption. These peptides can then stimulate fibroblasts, the cells responsible for rebuilding connective tissue.
We start to lose collagen, one of the effects of which is hair-loss, in our 20s.
Real-Life Results: The Vida Glow Story
Vida Glow founder Anna Lahey shares her personal experience: after struggling with sudden hair loss in her early 20s, she found that consistent marine collagen supplementation slowed shedding, improved skin firmness, and strengthened her nails. After 12 weeks, the full benefits of marine collagen should be visible.
Do the Experts Agree? A Divided Opinion
While Vida Glow’s trials reveal positive results – 96 per cent of participants experienced a reduction in fine lines and wrinkles, and 71 per cent reported new hair growth – these studies are funded by the brand itself. Consultant dermatologist Dr. Angela Tewari notes that daily use of 5g of marine collagen powder can improve skin hydration and texture over three months. However, Dr. Mahto remains skeptical, explaining that ingested collagen is broken down into amino acids and distributed throughout the body based on need, not necessarily directed to the skin.
Beyond Supplements: A Holistic Approach
Trichologist Claire Fullam emphasizes the importance of scalp health and identifying potential deficiencies through blood tests for those experiencing hair thinning. Lahey advises a holistic approach, combining collagen supplementation with a healthy lifestyle – including a balanced diet, sun protection, sufficient sleep, and stress management – for optimal results.
The Verdict: A Potential Boost, But Not a Miracle Cure
If you’re already prioritizing nutrition, sun protection, and a healthy lifestyle, collagen supplements may offer an extra boost for hair and skin, provided you can maintain consistent use.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What type of collagen is best? Marine collagen is often preferred due to its high bioavailability.
- How long does it take to see results? Visible benefits typically appear after 12 weeks of consistent supplementation.
- Are there any side effects? Collagen supplementation is generally considered safe, with no reported adverse health events.
- Can I get collagen from my diet? Yes, bone broth and foods rich in protein contain collagen, but the bioavailability may be lower.
