Collagen for Skin: The Trend Everyone’s Talking About
Collagen is a key protein which serves as one of the major building blocks for your skin, bones, hair, muscles, joints and ligaments. Most people pop collagen supplements or collagen powder daily into their morning tea, coffee or smoothie. It helps prevent the skin from sagging and gives you that plump, youthful look.
If you’ve an avid Instagram user or a TikTok fan, chances are you’ve already seen those countless skincare videos or wellness blogs which have lately become a thing. You must’ve spotted your favorite influencer sipping a collagen-infused drink or some dermatologist endorsing its benefits, all over the internet. It’s clear to an extent right now that collagen has cemented itself as a popular skincare product. However, before you hop on the bandwagon, here are a few things you need to know deeper—what exactly is collagen, is it worth the buzz, real benefits and potential side effects—and is it truly the secret to youthful, fresh skin?
What Exactly is Collagen?
Collagen is an abundant protein found in the human body. It actually accounts for a whopping 30% of a body’s total protein content. Collagen is found in the organs, blood vessels, and intestinal lining. Collagen works alongside hyaluronic acid and elastin, to maintain skin volume, elasticity and moisture. It basically acts as a structural framework to keep skin firm, youthful and plump. Being naturally produced by our bodies, collagen levels begin declining in the mid-20s, leading to wrinkles, sagging and dullness. Also, with current lifestyle and external factors like UV exposure, poor diet, smoking, alcohol consumption and pollution, collagen production, unfortunately further declines.
What Is The Buzz Around Collagen?
There’s a tremendous demand and hype surrounding collagen supplements and drinks, as most “influencers” and celebrities tout its miraculous benefits for hair, skin, and nails. As collagen present in our bodies provide ample support for these tissues—the big question arises. Is it actually true that consuming collagen externally promises luscious locks and a youthful glow? Let’s find out.
How Does Collagen Work?
There are ways more than one collagen works and can be incorporated into your premium beauty & skincare regimens. The major forms are—supplements and powders. People often prefer hydrolyzed collagen peptides as they’re the most popular and effective form. Others ingest collagen as it is believed to be more effective. Thus, collagen-infused creams and serums are becoming quite popular for their ability to provide hydration and temporary plumpness.
Beyond skincare, collagen-boosting foods like bone broth, citrus fruits, red bell peppers, berries, leafy green vegetables, fish, chicken, organ meat, and vitamin C-rich foods help naturally maintain collagen levels. Thus, even the best luxury skincare products and regimens are seeing a transformation, with more people turning to natural sources for long-term skincare benefits.
What Is "Collagen For Skin" Trend All About?
The collagen skincare trend is majorly centred around using collagen supplements (either orally or topically) and collagen skincare. The trend is all about improving skin elasticity, reducing wrinkles, and promoting youthful appearance. People all over are going gaga over the trend as it is believed that collagen for skin replenishes the body’s naturally declining collagen levels, a protein crucial for skin firmness and structure. This buzz is further fueled by the belief that boosting collagen helps fight the visible signs of skin aging and fine lines.
The buzz has only grown stronger, thanks to Hollywood A-listers like Kim Kardashian, Jennifer Aniston, and Kate Hudson—swearing by collagen supplements—making it a hot topic. Premium beauty & skincare brands are now offering collagen supplements in forms of—gummies, powders, and drinks—promising to improve skin elasticity and provide hydration.
Are There Any Side Effects To Collagen For Skin?
Collagen is usually very safe for most people. However, you may want to keep a few things in mind before consuming it in any form. Some experience bloating or an upset stomach when taking collagen supplements. Some also dislike the taste and consistency of collagen powders. While the ones with sensitive skin need to watch out for allergic reactions when the collagen products are derived from marine or bovine sources.
Collagen Skincare Trend—Is It Really For You?
Currently, luxury skincare brands and the best luxury skincare products are jumping on the collagen trend. But—collagen isn’t only looking like a passing trend—it’s become a popular approach to maintain youthful and healthy skin. Right now, there isn’t enough scientific proof that taking collagen supplements or topical collagen skincare will absolutely make a difference in nails, hair, and skin. Since our bodies cannot absorb collagen in its whole form, it must first be broken down into peptides to enter the bloodstream—raising questions about its effectiveness.
However, today, it’s no wonder that collagen skincare has taken the best luxury skincare products for a toss and the beauty industry by storm. But, extensive research suggests that to improve skin texture and minimize wrinkles, you’re better off prioritizing sun protection and using topical retinoids. While the ultimate results may vary from person to person, consistent use over a few months leads to noticeable improvements. Before starting, as with any other skincare product, review the list of ingredients and protein profile, and avoid collagen supplements with too many fillers or additives.
