TL;DR
- Collagen supplements, stimulators and machines can be great ways to increase collagen production, but take note of the following:
- When purchasing supplements, look closely at the ingredient list (hydrolyzed collagen peptides only, no unwanted sugars).
- Choose an experienced professional when doing treatments, as overstimulating collagen can create scar tissue or cause you to look older.
Table Of Contents
Collagen is everywhere—from skincare products to food, supplements and even your morning milk coffee. This article shall focus on how we can increase collagen in our skin, with a particular focus on collagen supplementation.
What is collagen, and why is it essential for our skin?
Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body, forming the structural framework for skin, bones, tendons, cartilage, and other connective tissues.
Collagen provides strength, elasticity, and firmness to the skin, playing a key role in skin’s youthful appearance. The body naturally produces collagen from available amino acids in our diet.
There are 28 known types of collagen in the body, each playing different roles. In our skin, the main types of collagen and Types I, III and IV.
The role of collagen in the ageing process
Collagen production declines with age and can be further degraded by factors like UV exposure, smoking, and poor diet, leading to wrinkles and sagging skin.
In order to reverse these changes, new ways to replace this collagen in the skin are required.
How to boost collagen in the body
There are three primary ways to boost collagen:
Supplements
These are in powder, pill, or drink form. Hydrolyzed collagen supplements, commonly referred to as collagen peptides, have become increasingly popular due to their potential benefits for skin, hair, nails, joints, and overall connective tissue health. These supplements are composed of collagen broken down into smaller amino acid chains through hydrolysis, a process that enhances their digestibility and absorption by the body.
Studies suggest that collagen supplements may provide some improvement in skin elasticity compared to a placebo (sugar pill). However, it’s essential to recognise that just because collagen performs better than doing nothing, it doesn’t necessarily outperform other effective amino acid sources, such as protein shakes or a high-protein diet.
Unlike complete proteins, hydrolyzed collagen lacks several of the nine essential amino acids, limiting the broader benefits offered by complete protein supplementation or a balanced, high-protein diet.
Many protein supplements, including shakes, provide easily absorbable peptides, are complete proteins, and are often a more cost-effective alternative to collagen supplements.
Stimulators
Collagen stimulators, such as Sculptra, Radiesse, and Juvelook, utilise PLLA, Calcium Hydroxylapatite, and PDLLA, respectively, to promote collagen production when injected beneath the skin. Plinest, also a type of collagen stimulator, involves injecting polynucleotides.
Collagen stimulators are designed to enhance volume and improve skin texture by directly stimulating collagen synthesis. However, it is essential to receive these treatments from an experienced medical professional. Incorrect application or excessive collagen stimulation may result in adverse effects, including puffiness, nodule formation, or the development of scar tissue, which can be difficult to manage and may have long-term consequences.
Energy-Based Machines
Energy-based devices, such as radiofrequency (RF), ultrasound, RF Gold Microneedling and laser treatments, are effective non-invasive methods to stimulate collagen production in the skin. These devices deliver controlled energy to deeper skin layers, heating tissues and triggering the body’s natural wound-healing response, leading to increased collagen synthesis. Studies show they can improve skin firmness, reduce wrinkles, and enhance overall texture.
While generally safe when performed by trained professionals, potential risks include burns, pigmentation changes, scarring or damage to surrounding structures if improperly administered. Patient selection and device choice are crucial for ensuring both efficacy and safety, making expert supervision essential for optimal results.
Are collagen supplements safe?
It’s worth noting that some individuals may experience allergic reactions, particularly if the collagen is derived from animal sources such as fish, shellfish, or bovine products.
Additionally, collagen supplements are not rigorously regulated by the FDA or other health authorities, raising concerns regarding safety, efficacy, and quality control. This lack of oversight may lead to inconsistent dosages, contamination with heavy metals or harmful additives, and misleading claims about the supplements’ benefits.
Finally, it’s important to check the caloric content of collagen supplements, as some products may contain added sugars or flavourings that increase their calorie count, leading to unwanted weight gain.
This weight gain is often mistaken for a collagen result because the temporary “plumping up” effect may seem like the skin is improving. However, true collagen benefits come from improved skin elasticity, firmness, and hydration over time, resulting in smoother, more resilient skin without the bloated look.
Conclusion: Collagen with Caution
It’s great that we have more ways than ever to boost collagen, but with that comes the need for discernment and caution. Whether it’s supplements, injectables, or collagen-stimulating machines, making informed choices regarding your precious skin is a must.
Sun protection, retinoid use and lifestyle factors such as sufficient sleep and smoking avoidance are also very important in maintaining/producing collagen under the skin.
Before jumping into any treatments, consult a doctor who understands your needs.
Contact us today for a non-obligatory discussion about your skin health.
*This article provides an overview but cannot cover the full complexity of collagen production and its regulation within the body.