Are Collagen Supplements Worth The Hype Or Just Another Fad? An Expert Explains
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If you've reached an age where you've suddenly become aware of the fact that your skin will not indeed remain youthful forever, you've likely started researching potential avenues for the preservation of its hydration and elasticity. One of the most heavily marketed anti-aging skincare products is collagen supplements. Most of these powders, gels, and capsules promise to make your skin appear younger, firmer, and more hydrated from the inside out. On the surface, it makes sense that adding collagen to your diet would boost its effects on your skin, but is there any proof that these supplements actually work?
Thus, we spoke to Dr. Cameron Rokhsar, M.D., F.A.A.D., F.A.A.C.S of New York Cosmetic, Skin & Laser Surgery Center about whether or not collagen supplements are worth all the fuss (and money) from an expert's point of view. Whether you're new to the world of skincare or have had a 12-step skincare routine for the past decade, his answer may surprise you.
The science behind collagen supplements
Regardless of how well-known collagen is for its positive effects on the skin, collagen supplements have not been widely studied when it comes to whether or not they can be broken down and put to use in a skincare capacity by the human body. According to Dr. Cameron Rokhsar, the small-scale studies that have been conducted just aren't enough to be considered solid medical evidence.
"There is little evidence that collagen supplements may be effective in improving skin elasticity and hydration," Dr. Rokhsar explains. "Most of the studies done so far have been small and of short duration, and larger, longer-term studies are needed to fully understand the effects of collagen supplements. As we don't see medical evidence, I don't think taking collagen supplements is worth the hype." If you've been buying collagen supplements, there's no need to despair. Dr. Rokhsar also offered useful advice on boosting the skin's own natural collagen production.
How to boost natural collagen production
According to Dr. Cameron Rokhsar, there are two non-negotiable nutrients when it comes to encouraging your body to produce more collagen for your skin to use: protein and vitamin C. "The best way to support collagen production in the body is by ensuring that you are eating adequate amounts of protein from foods like poultry, fish, and other high-protein sources," he advises. The doctor also recommends adding more sources of vitamin C to your diet, such as tomatoes, potatoes, and citrus fruits.
Additionally, you can boost collagen by using topical vitamin C serums. "Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that helps to protect the skin from environmental damage and stimulate collagen production," Dr. Rokhsar advises. "I recommend using a serum with a concentration of at least 10% vitamin C for optimal results." If you're not already using a vitamin C serum, consider TruSkin Anti-Aging Face Serum with Vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid, and Vitamin E, the cult classic with over 137,000 reviews and a 4.3-star rating on Amazon.