Magic Dust
Can A Spoonful Of Collagen Help The Wrinkles Go Down?
As my good friend and beauty therapist stared wistfully at my skin after she had finished ripping out the excess hairs, she looked longingly at my wrinkles, and the barely audible words ‘I’d love to give you a facial’ escaped her mouth. My visits to the salon are largely based on a necessity basis of waxing, plus I’ve recently taken to perming my eyelashes (which sounds revolting, but I LOVE it). Anyway, when it comes to facials - rightly or wrongly - I’ve tended to put them the non-essential basket. Of course, when the expert in their field as good as tells you that unless you want to look like a pruney hag, you need to lift your game; it might be time to listen.
Now, not being one to rush into another time commitment, instead of booking a facial I cast my eyes along the shelves of take-home goodies in the hopes of finding an alternative way to help my complexion. And there it was – the Collagen Powder. Word on the street is that this is an excellent addition to a skin-care routine. I have to confess I have previously looked into the benefits of collagen, and for a while dabbled with bone broth, which is collagen rich. Unfortunately, I just couldn’t get past the bone part of the broth, so a powder feels like a far more entry level attempt at ingestion. So here goes – I’m going to give it a whirl.
Facts
For the uninitiated, collagen is the stuff that puts the spring in our skin. Making up 80% of the skin it works with another protein called elastin to give the fresh, bouncy feel that as we age – in the ultimate irony - we both start to lose and finally appreciate in tandem.
As we mature our bodies begin to reduce the production of collagen, yet we cannot replace it as quickly as we are breaking it down. The result is drier skin – an additional bummer is that certain external elements such as sun exposure, pollution and smoking also accelerate the breakdown of the collagen.
The fact that this may sound a little doom and gloomy is perhaps why collagen as a supplement has become a popular option. The concept of throwing a little collagen powder into our diet seems like a fairly logical solution – however, as with anything beauty related there’s no such thing as a silver bullet. Hydrolyzed collagen is different to our own natural collagen, and therefore its makeup is different. Even amongst all the studies and experts the jury is out on when it comes to the question of just how much of the collagen we add will actually be absorbed, and indeed how much will make it to its target.
How Best To Take It?
In theory the body can use the absorbed collagen peptides in the areas that need the most repair. Powder is a popular option as it can be sprinkled on yoghurt or added to smoothies or even water (although you may need to dig deep to swallow it with simply H2O). Tempting though it is to throw it in the morning cuppa, this negates any benefits as the chemical structure of the collagen powder will be affected – it literally falls apart when heated above body temperature. Because vitamin C is essential for natural collagen production, it’s a great idea to double up and boost your intake by putting the powder into a vitamin C rich whole food fruit smoothie. I have been a little lazy and just added mine to apple juice. It actually tastes ok, but the powder didn’t mix very well so is a bit lumpy. I have to confess I am struggling to find a way to take it that is quick and in which I don’t mind the taste. I’m thinking next time I might buy the capsules.
How Long Before You Get Results?
Apparently, you have to give it at least three months before you can expect to see any results. And once you do, it will be something that needs to be continued.
What Are The Benefits?
Aside from the skin elasticity aspect, other beauty benefits are strengthening hair and hardening brittle nails. Collagen can potentially assist density in bones, joints, back and knee aches.
Remember
Firstly, for the body to produce its own collagen it needs zinc, so this may be another addition worth looking into. Secondly, as with everything, not all collagens are created equal. Just as, for example, olive oils come in a range of qualities from your supermarket own brand right through to the premium pure olive oil, so do collagens vary. There is evidence to suggest that marine collagen, as opposed to plant or bovine, is the best source of collagen as it gives your body the necessary ingredients it needs to produce Type 1 collagen, which is the one we want to reproduce. The best way to navigate this would be to ask your trusty beauty therapist for a brand recommendation.
Conclusion
Well – watch this space. I’m committing to my daily sprinkling of collagen powder, so will report back if I start exhibiting fresh, rejuvenated skin and springing around like an Olympic gymnast; shiny hair flowing behind me in the wind.