FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH all about collagen

Fountain of youth

Fountain youth Keep your skin in shape with collagen supplements, a protein that lends lots of health benefits to our body. BY JENNIFER CAMPBELL

Collagen, a long-standing health and wellness trend, is excelling in the market with new and improved products that have already hit our shelves… A ‘trend’ can sometimes imply a short lifespan, but in this case, we’re certain collagen supplements are here to stay, and for good reason.

WHAT ARE COLLAGEN SUPPLEMENTS?

Collagen is a protein that occurs naturally (and abundantly) in the body. It makes up over 70% of the protein found in our skin and serves a number of functions, including providing the skin with its strength and structure.

Collagen supplements are most widely available in powder form, although capsules are also popular. The protein can be found in specially formulated collagen creams and oils; these products typically contain synthetic collagen that helps to hydrate and plump the skin.

WHERE DOES IT COME FROM?

Collagen can be found in various food sources (especially those that contain gelatine), but there is still insu cient research to indicate just how much these foods actually boost the body’s collagen levels.

Collagen supplements are generally made from animal sources, such as beef, shellfi sh, fi sh and eggs, and although there are no strictly vegan collagen supplements, there are a range of plant-based collagen boosters on the market. These boosters contain the vitamins and minerals the body needs to produce its own collagen — such as vitamin C and zinc, for example — while some products have plant extracts known to boost collagen production.

Some of the ways in which collagen can be boosted include the topical or oral use of aloe vera, a plant well known for its healing and cell-growth stimulating properties; incorporating marine plant ingredients like algae into your skincare routine for its ability to prevent oxidation; and eating foods that are rich in vitamin C and amino acids, as these may increase levels of both collagen and hyaluronic acids in the body.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS?

■ As we age, the body naturally produces less collagen — this can lead to the visible signs of ageing, like fi ne lines, wrinkles and dryness. A supplement is perfect to help combat this. ■ It boosts production of other proteins such as elastin and fi brillin that contribute to the structure of the skin. ■ It’s a natural source of amino acids. ■ It may improve gut health. ■ It’s been known to help ease joint aches and pains by supporting connective tissue in the body. ■ Bone mineral density decreases with age, especially after menopause, and collagen can help with this, too, by stimulating bone formation. ■ It can promote strong and healthy nails.

OUR TOP PICKS

SKOON. SKINSIDE OUT SKINSIDE OUT ELASTICITY ELASTICITY SMOOTHIE SMOOTHIE

It’s made using over 50+ using over 50+ ingredients, ingredients, including Marine including Marine Collagen, Vitamin Collagen, Vitamin C, antioxidants C, antioxidants and probiotics. and probiotics.

R1 395.95 for 30 × 7.5g raspberry mango fl avour sachets

DOSE & CO

We’re obsessed with the latest introduction to the SA market, Khloe Kardashian’s premium Dose & Co collagen and protein powders. Great to mix with hot and cold drinks, such as coffee, tea, hot chocolate and smoothies.

R559 for 420g

HEY GORGEOUS COLLAGEN BOOSTING SERUM

This serum penetrates deep into the layers of skin to boost and stimulate collagen production of your skin. It contains plantderived collagen and Vitamin C, which plays a vital role in the synthesis of collagen production.

R585 for 30ml