What is Collagen?

Aging is a natural process, but who says we can’t slow it down? As we age, our skin starts to lose its elasticity and firmness, leading to wrinkles, sagging, and thinning hair. But recent research on collagen supplementation—specifically Type 1 and Type 3 collagen—offers promising results for maintaining youthful skin and strong hair. With proven benefits like improved skin hydration, wrinkle reduction, and even a reduction in cellulite, collagen supplements are fast becoming a key player in the fight against visible aging. Let’s dive into the science behind this beauty breakthrough!

Different Types of Collagen

While there are at least 28 different types of collagen, the majority of the collagen in the body is categorized into a few key types. The most relevant for skin and hair health are Types 1, and 3.

Research on Collagen Supplementation for Skin Health

Several studies have demonstrated the efficacy of collagen supplementation in improving skin elasticity, hydration, and reducing wrinkles. Below are some key findings:

1. Skin Elasticity and Wrinkle Reduction

A 2014 study by Proksch et al. found that supplementing with bioactive collagen peptides (Type 1 and Type 3) significantly improved skin elasticity and reduced wrinkle depth. Participants, aged 35-55, experienced noticeable skin improvements after four weeks of supplementation, with continued benefits over eight weeks. The collagen peptides stimulate fibroblast activity, enhancing collagen synthesis in the skin’s deeper layers and slowing down the visible effects of aging.

2. Skin Hydration and Firmness

In another study conducted by Proksch et al. (2013), women who took a daily dose of Type 1 and Type 3 collagen peptides saw significant increases in skin hydration and firmness. After 8 weeks of supplementation, the participants’ skin hydration levels were visibly improved, and skin firmness was restored. This demonstrates collagen’s ability to combat common signs of aging, such as dry and sagging skin.

3. Cellulite Reduction

A 2015 study by Schunck et al. investigated the effect of Type 1 and Type 3 collagen peptides on cellulite. After six months of daily supplementation, participants showed a significant reduction in the appearance of cellulite due to enhanced skin elasticity and thickness. This effect was particularly noticeable in women with moderate cellulite, reinforcing collagen’s ability to improve skin structure from the inside out.

Research on Collagen Supplementation for Hair Health

While collagen’s impact on skin health is well-established, emerging research suggests that it also plays a key role in hair health:

1. Strengthening Hair Structure

Collagen, especially Type 1, is an essential building block for hair, as it strengthens the hair shaft and prevents breakage. Supplementing with collagen can help restore hair structure and prevent thinning, particularly in aging individuals.

2. Hair Growth and Thickness

Studies have shown that collagen supplementation may promote hair thickness by stimulating the hair follicles, ensuring a healthier scalp environment. Though more research is needed in this area, initial findings suggest that collagen can help improve the overall appearance and health of hair by supporting the protein structure of hair follicles.

The Long-Term Benefits of Type 1 and Type 3 Collagen Supplementation

Long-term collagen supplementation offers cumulative benefits for the skin, including:

• Increased skin density and firmness: A study in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology found that collagen supplementation improved skin density, making it thicker, more resilient, and less prone to damage.
• Enhanced skin hydration: Regular collagen intake can significantly boost the skin’s moisture retention capabilities, which is essential for maintaining a youthful, plump appearance.
• Reduction in wrinkle depth: Collagen peptides help restore skin’s structural integrity, leading to reduced wrinkle depth, particularly around areas prone to expression lines.

Research clearly supports the numerous benefits of Type 1 and Type 3 collagen supplementation for skin and hair health. From improving skin elasticity and reducing wrinkles to promoting thicker hair, these collagen types offer a natural, effective way to slow down the signs of aging. Whether you’re looking to reduce the appearance of cellulite or improve skin hydration and firmness, incorporating collagen into your daily routine may help maintain a youthful, healthy complexion and stronger, more resilient hair.

References

1. Proksch, E., Schunck, M., Zague, V., et al. (2014). Oral Intake of Specific Bioactive Collagen Peptides Reduces Skin Wrinkles and Increases Dermal Matrix Synthesis. Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, 27(3), 113-119. DOI: 10.1159/000357447.
2. Proksch, E., Schunck, M., Zague, V., et al. (2013). Oral Supplementation of Specific Collagen Peptides Improves Skin Elasticity and Firmness in a Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study. Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, 27(1), 47-55. DOI: 10.1159/000351376.
3. Schunck, M., Zague, V., et al. (2015). Dietary Supplementation with Specific Collagen Peptides Has a Body Mass Index–Dependent Beneficial Effect on Cellulite Morphology. Journal of Medicinal Food, 18(12), 1340-1348. DOI: 10.1089/jmf.2015.0022.
4. Bolke, L., Schlippe, G., et al. (2016). A Collagen Supplement Improves Skin Hydration, Elasticity, Roughness, and Density: Results of a Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Blind Study. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 17(4), 1-7. DOI: 10.1111/jocd.12393.
5. Nutrafoods (2015). Effect of Collagen Peptides on Skin Health: A Systematic Review. DOI: Link to study.
6. Shoulders, M. D., & Raines, R. T. (2009). Collagen Structure and Stability. Annual Review of Biochemistry, 78, 929–958. DOI: 10.1146/annurev.biochem.77.032207.120833.
7. Eyre, D. R., Weis, M. A., & Wu, J. J. (2006). Articular Cartilage Collagen: An Irreplaceable Framework?. European Cells and Materials, 12, 57-63. DOI: 10.22203/ecm.v012a07.
8. Ricard-Blum, S. (2011). The Collagen Family. Cold Spring Harbor Perspectives in Biology, 3(1), a004978. DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a004978.
9. Jayadev, R., & Sherwood, D. R. (2017). Basement Membranes. Current Biology, 27(8), R207-R211. DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2017.01.009
10. Wenstrup, R. J., Florer, J. B., Davidson, J. M., Phillips, C. L., & Willing, M. C. (2004). Type V Collagen Controls the Initiation of Collagen Fibril Assembly. Journal of Biological Chemistry, 279(51), 53331-53337. DOI: 10.1074/jbc.M409736200.