Collagen is the most common protein found in our bodies. Although it can be found in every organ and blood vessel, it is most popular for its role in skin and joint health. Collagen supplements can go a long way in improving your skin and joint health but it’s important to buy one that suits your needs. Some people prefer flavored supplements while others prefer unflavored. Some collagen supplements also have added probiotics while others are formulated specifically for athletes. You may be looking for a collagen supplement on a budget but you’re worried that it won’t be a quality product. This is why it’s best to compare the best collagen supplements in the market so you can check out the pros and cons of each before making a decision.
Benefits of Collagen Powder for Skin
- Improves Skin Texture
Collagen is a major component of connective tissue and provides structural support. The skin is made up of 3 layers – the epidermis is the top layer but the second layer, the dermis, makes up 90% of the skin’s thickness. This layer requires collagen to remain toned. Collagen supplements help to improve your skin texture by nourishing both these layers of skin to give you an even skin texture.
- Increases Skin Elasticity
As we age, the amount of collagen, elastin and other proteins required for healthy skin decreases. It is estimated that collagen decreases by approximately one percent every year. This decline in collagen production begins in your late 20s and early 30s, but the visible changes in skin elasticity typically show only in your later 30s or early 40s. Skin elasticity is important because without it, your skin appears less firm and it also increases your risk of wrinkles. Studies have found that women who take collagen supplements have better skin elasticity compared to those who don’t.
- Enhances Skin Hydration
All of us know that skin hydration is important which is why we use moisturizers on a daily basis. While moisturizers are effective in locking-in moisture, collagen supplements help to improve your skin’s natural hydration. This will help to keep your skin soft and give you a smoother complexion.
- Reduces Wrinkles
Loss of collagen in the skin reduces dermal thickness which results in wrinkles. Research shows that oral collagen can help to reduce the effects of skin aging as well as delay skin aging. Some research also indicates that collagen supplements can help to reverse skin aging and improve skin elasticity and hydration.
- Promotes Wound Healing
Collagen plays several important roles in wound healing. Collagen fibers help to provide structure to the wound site so that new tissue can grow. It also helps to provide strength to the new tissue as it develops to prevent the wound from reopening. Collagen supports a process called re-epithelialization where epithelial cells form across the surface of the wound to restore the natural skin barrier. This means that taking collagen supplements regularly will help to reduce the risk of scars and blemishes after an acne breakout.
Benefits of Collagen Powder for Joint Health
- Supports Joint Cartilage
Cartilage is a rubbery, flexible and tough connective tissue that acts as a cushion between the bones of joints. Unfortunately, our bodies do not regenerate cartilage when we are adults which means that severe damage to the cartilage can cause lasting damage. Collagen is one of the most common proteins found in cartilage so taking collagen supplements on a regular basis can help to maintain joint cartilage.
- Improves Joint Injury Recovery
While we cannot regenerate cartilage, our bodies are able to repair minor cartilage damage. Research shows that collagen supplements can promote faster repair and reduce recovery time after a joint injury. Furthermore, collagen supplements also support the structure of tendons and ligaments which reduces joint stiffness following an injury.
- Slows Down Joint Degeneration
Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis where the cartilage between the joints gradually deteriorates. Research shows that currently, over 32 million Americans are affected by this disease and it is twice as common in women. Some studies indicate that taking collagen supplements regularly may help to slow the degeneration of cartilage which would slow down the progression of osteoarthritis.
- Improves Joint Mobility
Many people who have joint pain are unable to exercise but the lack of exercise only worsens their symptoms – leading to a vicious cycle. Collagen supplements can help to reduce joint inflammation and pain which in turn, improves joint mobility. This allows people to exercise and strengthen their joints which further improves joint function and mobility.
- Increases Muscle Mass
While collagen is most commonly associated with skin and cartilage, it is also found in other connective tissues including tendons and muscles. Research shows that collagen supplements combined with resistance training increase muscle mass as well as muscle strength.