Can you drink collagen

Those who prefer a supplement should use a refrigerated, liquid collagen or collagen powder mixed into a cold beverage. Collagen peptides have already been melted and are therefore similar to other protein powders. And remember that not all commercially available collagens are equal. Always find out where your collagen comes from. If you have a fish, egg, or shellfish allergy, be sure your collagen comes from another source.

Select a brand that provides your collagen of interest. And finally, make it part of your daily routine. The benefits wear off if you stop taking it.

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Editions Quartz. More from Quartz About Quartz. Follow Quartz. Powders like the ones made by Vital Proteins are easily mixed into smoothies and shakes or even your morning coffee. Pre-made beverages like Neuro Protein require no prep, but do need to be stored in the fridge. Choose a drink that fits your lifestyle. For example, if you're always running from one task to the next, you might prefer a pre-made beverage you can grab on the go or simply add flavored collagen like pink lemonade from Active Beauty into plain water.

On the other hand, if you swear by your morning smoothie, you might try adding a scoop of collagen powder. Additionally, pay close attention to ingredients. Most collagens are derived from either bovine cow sources like this one from Vital Proteins or from marine fish sources like this one from Further Food.

So vegetarians and those with allergies should beware. And anyone using a collagen supplement should ensure that it comes from a quality source. Finally, don't expect collagen to be a miracle cure for your skin all on its own.

While the scientific studies about it have been promising, research into collagen is still in early stages, so it's best to rely on multiple methods of skin protection to keep you looking and feeling your best. Practice a regular skincare regimen, wear sunscreen and eat nutrient-dense foods to care for your body inside and out.

Collagen, when taken correctly, can be a valuable addition to your skincare routine. Take it whenever is convenient for you, and stick within the recommended serving size, and you're in great shape to reap the benefits of this trendy nutritional powerhouse.

Nutrition Nutrition Basics Beverages and Health. Reviewed by Kirsten Nunez, M. Kirsten Nunez, M. However, that brings up another problem. A lot of these studies are performed by people selling collagen supplements.

Volunteers took a daily supplement containing 5 grams hydrolysed collagen derived from fish cartilage as well as a whole host of other vitamins and minerals. Dryness, wrinkles, and nasolabial fold depth improved after 60 days, and collagen density and skin firmness improved after 12 weeks. Another manufacturer-sponsored trial , run in conjunction with a university, had volunteers take either a daily supplement containing 2.

There were improvements in eye wrinkles as well as the content of the skin. The same supplement also improved skin elasticity after eight weeks in a separate trial. Another placebo-controlled trial run by the manufacturer found that 10 grams of a daily collagen peptide supplement improved skin hydration after eight weeks, increased density, and decreased fragmentation of collagen in the skin after four weeks.

While it looks like collagen supplements are promising and could potentially work, the evidence is far from solid! It looks like patting the waters of the fountain of youth onto your skin is still more effective than drinking from it! Look for topical products like creams containing vitamin A with ingredients like retinol and tretinoin. These are the gold standard for boosting collagen in the skin.

Vitamin C serums are also fantastic for increasing collagen. Skin hydration is also a common cause of tired-looking skin and easy to fix with serums and moisturizers as well. Look for humectant ingredients, or ingredients that promote moisture retention, like glycerin and hyaluronic acid to plump up skin and hide wrinkles. Most importantly, sunscreen with high UVA protection will prevent free radicals from breaking down collagen in the first place.

Michelle explains the science behind beauty products at Lab Muffin Beauty Science. She has a PhD in synthetic medicinal chemistry. You can follow her for science-based beauty tips on Instagram and Facebook.