In recent years, collagen has become one of the most widely used and appreciated products in anti-ageing skincare1. Collagen is a natural protein that supports the firmness and elasticity of skin, but, as we age, our natural levels of collagen decrease, and our skin becomes looser and less elastic than when we were younger².

Some evidence³ has suggested that replacing lost collagen with collagen peptides for skin supplements and skincare products can strengthen the skin and have anti-ageing effects⁴. As such, skincare products collagen peptides (which promote collagen production) are among the most widely used anti-ageing products.¹ Keep reading to find out more about the properties of collagen and how it can help your skin.

Understanding Collagen and its Role in Anti-Aging

Collagen is a structural protein and can be found in your skin, bones, tendons, cartilage, and connective tissues⁵. Our bodies produce collagen naturally and use it to maintain the health and functionality of our skin, bones, and other areas⁶. One of the most famous properties of collagen is its ability to keep skin elastic and youthful looking.

As we age, our natural production of collagen decreases, and our bodies change to reflect this. Wrinkles, sagging, and thinner skin are all linked to the loss of collagen we experience with age⁷, and so anti-ageing and collagen supplements are often linked together.

While research on the benefit of collagen supplements for anti-ageing is not yet conclusive, there are promising signs that oral supplementation of the protein may have several benefits including cosmetic anti-ageing⁸.

Benefits of Collagen Peptides for Anti-Ageing

Collagen supplements and skincare products can have a range of benefits when it comes to anti-ageing. Some of the most important collagen benefits include:
• Reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles: Collagen production/intake can tighten skin, reducing the appearance of unwanted wrinkles.
• Improving skin elasticity: Certain collagen peptide supplements also promote the production of elastin which keeps skin firm but stretchy.

As well as directly supplementing collagen levels, it is possible to consume collagen peptides. Peptides are amino acids which encourage the production of collagen and elastin in the body through their action on fibroblasts¹⁰.

Incorporating Collagen Peptides into Your Skincare Routine

Adding collagen supplements, especially collagen peptides, into your daily routine is easy, as the protein is available in many forms. Collagen can come in moisturisers, serums, supplemental tablets, and powders, all of which can be used to incorporate collagen for anti-ageing results in your skincare. Collagen dosage per day will vary from product to product, so ensure you check the relevant guidelines before beginning to use a new product or switching collagen supplements.

To note, there is no toxic dose of collagen established so far. A supplementation study showed that collagen ranging from 2.5g to 15g per day did not exceed the 36% of total protein amount consumed per day to fully substitute protein intakes (0.8 g/kg bw/d).¹¹

You should be able to use collagen skincare products alongside those in your usual skincare routine.

Conclusion

If you are worried about the effects of ageing on your skin and are looking for a natural way to rejuvenate your face and body, then RICHELET® collagen supplements and collagen peptides may be the right option for you. By supplementing the naturally declining levels of collagen in your body, you could see a tightening and smoothing of your skin, and a restored youthful glow.

Skincare does not begin and end with collagen supplements though, and while there are many collagen benefits, it is vital that you take a holistic approach to skincare. Make sure to use SPF in addition to any skincare products to ensure your skin is protected from sun damage. In addition to this, adopting a healthy diet and sleep pattern can also help the health and appearance of your skin, and the effects of this behaviour cannot be replicated by collagen supplements.

FAQs

1. Is there a recommended collagen dosage per day?
Collagen dosage per day will vary depending on the product you use. Check the relevant guidelines for your chosen supplements, powders, or skincare products and do not exceed. If you are living with a skin condition, consult your doctor before you begin taking collagen.

2. Are there any side effects associated with using collagen peptides?
Collagen peptides should be suitable for any skin type, and there are almost no side effects associated with using them. If you are worried about consuming supplements consult your doctor.

3. How long does it take to see results from using collagen peptides?
Collagen benefits will take differing amounts of time to take effect based on a person’s lifestyle and skin condition. After consistent use, you should begin to see results as of 4 weeks, though this can vary.

4. Can collagen peptides be used in conjunction with other anti-aging cosmetics?
Collagen peptides can be used alongside most other anti-ageing treatments, with some serums, such as hyaluronic acid and niacinamide, working in conjunction with peptides for potentially better results. Some harsh exfoliants do not pair well with peptides and can irritate the skin if used alongside collagen supplements. Skincare products to avoid using at the same time as peptides include AHAs, BHAs, and retinoids.