Collagen powder is still very popular among wellness influencers, but does it really help your skin? Mary Sauer from Parade explains that collagen is a natural protein in the body that keeps our skin strong and elastic.
As we age, the body slows down the production of collagen, which is why some people turn to collagen supplements.
Collagen powders claim to help improve skin health, making it look younger, while also boosting hair and nail strength.
Some studies support these claims, but many experts, like Jenn Randazzo from Vital Proteins, believe that collagen can help improve skin hydration and elasticity when used regularly.
Farah Z. Khan, a nutrition expert, told Parade that collagen supplements contain amino acids, such as proline and glycine, which can help the body produce more collagen.
However, some experts are still skeptical. Kasey Hutchinson, a dietitian, initially doubted that collagen powder could really make a difference because the body breaks down proteins in the stomach.
After looking into more research, Hutchinson softened her view. She mentioned a study from Skin Pharmacology Physiology that showed collagen supplements can improve skin elasticity after eight weeks.
Another 2023 study from Nutrients suggested that collagen supplements might help with hydration and elasticity, but more research is needed.
Even though some benefits exist, experts like Khan pointed out that collagen powder won’t make a big difference if you’re not already taking care of your body with a healthy diet.
She told Parade that a diet rich in vitamins A, C, and E, along with omega-3 fatty acids from foods like fish, can do a lot more for your skin than just taking supplements.
She also advised staying away from sugary, fried, and processed foods, which can harm your skin.
In summary, while collagen powders can help improve your skin’s health, Parade emphasized that they won’t work miracles on their own.
Taking care of your body with a balanced diet is still the most important factor.
Credit : Parade
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