Updated 12/12/23. Can collagen improve fine lines and wrinkles on the face? No doubt collagen, powders, capsules, and even coffee have been super popular for improving skin appearance, but does it really work? Or is this just a big fat supplement scam? I've looked at the research. In this video review, I'll show you the best research on collagen-helping wrinkles that I could find. I'll show you the products that have been tested, my problems with the clinical studies, and give you my four big questions about collagen and wrinkles. Does it really work? Here's the proof. You decide.
Collagen and Wrinkles Fact or Fiction
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Video: What's The Best Type of Collagen To Use?
About The Research
Many of the studies conducted are supported by companies that make these supplements. That's not necessarily a bad thing. Just something to keep in mind when interpreting the results. Some of the investigations are of high quality.
Collagen Supplements I like
For wrinkles, I like this supplement, which contains Verisol, a substance that some clinical studies have revealed has effects on fine lines and wrinkles.
These have also been third-party tested by an independent lab to contain 20 grams per two scoops and are inexpensive, which saves you money in the long run.
Collagen Supplements I Do Not Like
Collagen & HydroxyProline
Hydroxyproline is an amino acid. Not many foods contain hydroxyproline but collagen is a good source. While it is not an essential amino acid, we do need hydroxyproline to make collagen. It's actually very important.
As we get older, we make less hydroxyproline. As our production dwindles, this can play a role in skin aging and wrinkles. In addition, hydroxyproline might also have antioxidant effects, something else that can keep skin healthy.
As I mentioned in my previous video, some research suggests the hydroxyproline from gelatin can make it into the blood. It's not destroyed as was once thought. If hydroxyproline from food can make it into the bloodstream, can we then use it to increase our collagen production?
This is the BIG question.
We don't know the answer to that yet. That's the hope, anyway. Regardless, this is one of the key reasons these supplements are so popular. One thing we do know is eating hydroxyproline does not improve our natural production of this important and often neglected amino acid.
We don't know how to raise our natural production – yet. That said, the fact that this important amino acid seems to make it through digestion is at least encouraging that it may be helping the skin.
What Is The Best Type Of Collegen?
There are several types of collagen and here is how they differe from each other
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Can Collagen Supplements Help Depression?
Here is the clinical proof.
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How Long Until It Works?
The studies suggest 2-6 months will be needed before you see a difference in crow's feet, wrinkles, and age spots. This is a generalization, however. Something else to consider is how deep the wrinkles are. Supplements are going to work best on fine lines and wrinkles. The deeper the wrinkle is, the less pronounced the effects will be.
If these supplements are going to work, it's important to do other things to help the skin stay healthy like avoiding sun damage, not smoking, and eating well.