You’ve heard of hydrolyzed collagen, but do you know what it does for your skin?
When you think of collagen, you might think of the stuff they used to inject into lips in the 80s. That’s kind of a thing of the past, though, and now collagen is used in different ways. Collagen has captured the attention of many in the beauty industry. That’s for good reason. Many people have seen its effects!
First, let’s start simple.
What is collagen?
Collagen is the body’s building block. It is the most abundant protein in the skin. It is also found in bone, tendons, ligaments, organs, muscle, blood vessels, and hair. Many describe collagen as the glue that holds the body together.
Collagen is produced abundantly in the body during youth, but as the body ages, collagen starts to diminish. Decreased collagen levels lead to wrinkles and sagging, dull skin.
“After the age of 25, we break down more collagen than we make so that’s why we start to see fine lines and wrinkles. From there, you start losing about one percent of your collagen each year. Under a microscope you see fragmentation of the collagen network in the dermis — this is the hallmark of skin aging,” says Debra Jaliman, MD, and author of Skin Rules: Trade Secrets from a Top New York Dermatologist.
What do collagen supplements do for the skin?
Collagen supplements can do wonders for you skin. Collagen can help in three specific ways:
Reduces wrinkle depth
A study done in the Journal of Medical Nutrition and Nutraceuticals showed significant reduction in wrinkle depth. The women drank a blend of supplements including hydrolyzed collagen, hyaluronic acid, and other vitamins and minerals.
Increased elasticity and moisture
Another study published in the Skin Pharmacology and Physiology journal showed a statistically significant difference in skin elasticity and moisture when compared to a placebo group.
May reduce acne and eczema
Hydrolyzed collagen acts as an anti-inflammatory, which may help in inflammatory conditions such as acne and eczema. Talk with your healthcare professional about using hydrolyzed collagen to help with either of these conditions.
How can I take collagen?
Collagen supplements come in many different forms. Collagen drinks, capsules, and creams are all popular options. Ideal Collagen is a powder supplement that is mixed with liquid. It is berry flavored and is a perfect addition to smoothies!
What are the side effects?
Most people do not experience any side effects while taking collagen supplements. However, make sure to check with your healthcare professional before taking any supplements to make sure that they’re safe for you. Some of the side effects of collagen include:
- Diarrhea
- Upset stomach
- Rashes
