It feels like there’s always a new must-have ingredient in the beauty world — and every one of them is said to completely change your skin. It can be hard to keep up, but collagen is one of the few that seems to be sticking around. 

What is collagen?

Collagen is a type of protein. It exists naturally in our skin, bones, and tissue, where it essentially provides structural support. It can also be found in our organs and blood vessels. 

Collagen is made of essential amino acids proline, glycine, and hydroxyproline, which group together to form the protein. On top of providing structure and support throughout our bodies, collagen also plays a role in skin regeneration, providing protection to vital organs, and helping blood clot. It really is a bit of an all-rounder when it comes to health.

While collagen is naturally occuring in our bodies, we produce less of it as we age, and this can result in fine lines and wrinkles, hollowing around the eyes, reduced flexibility, joint pain, and more. This is why some people choose to increase their intake through collagen supplements like gummies and powders, and skincare products boosted with collagen. 

What does collagen do for skin? 

Collagen works with other ingredients, products, substances, proteins, etcetera, to maintain skin elasticity, volume, and moisture. By providing strength and hydration, it’s a key player when it comes to maintaining plump skin. Collagen is also essential in our skin’s natural renewal process. 

Essentially, when it comes to smooth and hydrated skin, collagen is your best friend. This is often why you see it in ‘anti-ageing’ products. 

Does collagen skincare work? 

You’ve likely noticed the shelves of many beauty aisles lined with products advertising their collagen content — collagen creams, serums, and other products — claiming to do wonders for your skin. The truth is, that collagen molecules are actually very large, and typically can’t penetrate the surface of the skin when applied topically in cream or similar form. Unfortunately, collagen skincare is often not as effective as what many of us are led to believe, or at least, not in the ways we’re led to believe. 

So, how can you boost your collagen? 

There are a few ways you can stimulate collagen production in your skin: 

Collagen supplements 

While there is a lot of unclear information on the effectiveness of supplements like collagen gummies, there is some research that shows they can be effective in reducing wrinkles and aiding in skin hydration and elasticity.

There is no one clear answer as to which are the best collagen supplements, however there are some on the market with rave reviews. The Beauty Chef’s Plumpers are just one example — a chewable tablet to support collagen production. These come in a range of flavours, including kakadu plum & berry, chocolate, and orange & turmeric. 

Liquid collagen 

When it comes to collagen drinks, the Dr LeWinn’s collagen shots are some of the most widely-loved. The Marine Collagen Peptide+ Inner Beauty Liquid Shots also come in different flavours, including peach, and orange & mango. 

Collagen powder

The Vida Glow Natural Marine Collagen Sachets are packed with collagen for hair, skin, and nails. According to Vida Glow, 68 per cent of people surveyed experienced increased skin hydration, and 70 per cent recorded significant improvement to crow’s feet. 

Vegan collagen 

In food, collagen is naturally found in animal products that contain connective tissue, as well as in the bones and skin of fish. You often hear the term ‘marine collagen’ — this is collagen sourced from fish, and is often considered the superior form of collagen. However, if you are vegan, or buy vegan and cruelty free products, marine collagen is obviously not going to work for you. In this case, there are vegan collagen options, which generally come from genetically modified yeast and bacteria. If you’re on the hunt for a vegan collagen, Dr Lewinn’s actually makes a great vegan alternative to their widely-loved marine collagen range. Both the Inner Beauty Vegan Collagen & Hyaluronic Acid Powder and Inner Beauty Vegan Collagen & Hyaluronic Acid Liquid Shot have rave reviews online. 

If you’re on the hunt for a little skin-plumping, hydrating, and smoothing, then get yourself some collagen. Try it in capsule, liquid, or powder form, and balance it with other essential vitamins and minerals, and you should be well on your way to achieving your skin goals.