Does collagen really remove wrinkles?

Collagen supplements have opened their place in the beauty and health market with the promise of younger skin, reduced wrinkles and even improved joint health. But how much scientific evidence supports these claims?

It was checked in a conversation with a nutritionist

Arjan Ambassador - Yekta Farahani: From collagen powders that are added to coffee and smoothies to pills and drinks that promise to restore the skin's freshness, this protein has become one of the most popular names in the beauty supplement market. But can the daily consumption of collagen really slow down the aging process or is it better to pay attention to our daily nutrition before buying these supplements?

How much does collagen help to keep the skin young?

Collagen supplements should not be considered a guaranteed way to restore youthful skin. Collagen is a structural protein that helps to strengthen the skin and also plays a role in maintaining the structure of cartilage, bones and tendons. With age, the natural production of this protein decreases. Exposure to sunlight, smoking and pollution can also accelerate the destruction of skin collagen. One of the important points to consider when considering collagen supplements is how the body absorbs and uses them. Oral collagen is not directly transferred from the digestive system to the skin. The body first digests it and converts it into smaller amino acids and peptides. Some of these peptides can enter the bloodstream and may affect the activity of collagen producing cells. Simply put, a collagen supplement doesn't act like a filler to instantly eliminate wrinkles. Its possible effect is more related to the biological processes related to maintaining the structure and characteristics of the skin; Processes that still need more research to determine the extent and durability of the effect of supplements.

Nasim Beheshti, a nutrition expert, told Ambassador Arjan: According to the available evidence, the research results about collagen supplements are not the same. Some studies have reported improvement in skin moisture and elasticity after taking these supplements; But other studies that have also taken into account the influence of the financial support of the manufacturing companies have not found a clear benefit for preventing skin aging. Overall, current evidence suggests limited changes in skin moisture and elasticity; However, the significant and definitive effect of collagen supplements on wrinkles and skin rejuvenation has not been proven yet.

An essential ingredient for making collagen

According to this nutritionist, the importance of basic nutrients is sometimes overlooked in discussions about beauty supplements. The body needs vitamin C to make collagen; A vitamin that helps to form a strong and stable structure of collagen fibers. Its deficiency can disrupt the construction of connective tissue and the healing of wounds. Citrus fruits, kiwi, strawberries, bell peppers and all kinds of vegetables are good sources of vitamin C. For this reason, before buying expensive supplements, it is better to check the nutritional status and intake of essential nutrients.

Of course, this nutrition expert emphasizes the importance of meeting the real needs of the body; Because supplements can't replace a balanced diet: If a person isn't getting enough nutrients, addressing dietary modification can be a more important step than adding a beauty product to the daily routine.

The discussion of collagen is not limited to the beauty of the skin, and some studies have shown that taking collagen supplements may help reduce joint pain and improve movement in people with arthritis. However, these results do not mean the regeneration of damaged cartilage or the treatment of osteoarthritis. A distinction must be made between the possible reduction of symptoms and the treatment of the cause of the disease. Collagen supplementation, if appropriate for the individual, may be part of the care plan; However, it will not replace medical treatment, physical activity according to individual conditions and weight management.

According to Beheshti, there is no specific age to start taking collagen that all people will need this supplement after reaching that age. The need for supplements depends on the nutritional status, the purpose of consumption and the individual's condition. For someone who wants to maintain the health and freshness of his skin, actions such as regular use of sunscreen, getting enough protein, eating fruits and vegetables, and avoiding smoking are prioritized.

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collagen powder, pill or drink; Which is better?

When asked what type of collagen supplement is best if a person decides to take a collagen supplement after considering their diet and expectations, he explains: There is not enough evidence to show that the liquid form of collagen is necessarily more effective than the powder or pill form. The actual amount of collagen in the product, its quality, and the suitability of consumption with the individual's purpose are more important than the appearance of the supplement. Also, you should not expect the result of consumption to appear in a short period of time. In skin-related research, periods of about 8 to 12 weeks have been investigated; But even regular consumption during this period does not guarantee a noticeable change.

On the other hand, the collagen supplement market is associated with various promises about skin rejuvenation, joint health, and anti-aging. Beheshti advises: Before spending money on beauty supplements, the real needs of the body should be prioritized. Collagen may be an optional choice with limited benefit for some people; But it is not a substitute for proper nutrition, not a sole solution to maintaining muscles, and not a guaranteed way to get rid of wrinkles.