Updated: Sep 18, 2020
By Renata Block, MMS, PA-C
Are you benefiting from collagen supplements? There are many to choose from on the market today, but what truly makes one better than the other? Which type of collagen should you be using? Should you consider marine, animal, or plant-based? What is the difference between them? So many questions, so little time!
So, let’s get into the research of it, shall we?
The Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology published a study showing subjects who took collagen for eight weeks had up to 12% increased skin hydration. However, this was specific with the use of collagen peptides known as Peptan® (specifically developed bioactive collagen peptides found in products we purchase OTC) but come in different sourced variations such as porcine, fish, or bovine. Per Aethern, the collagen supplements I have been loyal to for months now, porcine tends to be absorbed better than marine, and better absorption equals efficacy. Porcine amino acids show to be more compatible with human needs, which makes it a preferred source, though newer generations of marine collagen show substantial bioavailability, which may prove to be just as good. Personally, marine offers a friendly alternative.
However, I do want to share with you that plant-based options are available and do contain amino acids needed, such as lysine and proline, to name a couple. You can find plant-based foods high in these amino acids, such as soy products: tempeh, tofu, and soy protein. Nonetheless, in general, plant-based proteins are known to lack one or more of all the essential amino acids needed for optimal results, which makes it challenging to get what is required.
The AAD published a study in 2019 about the use of collagen supplementation and the effects it can have on hair, skin, nails. Pretty impressive results following 800 subjects using bioactive collagen peptides for just over two months. The results were awe-inspiring with increased improvement in elasticity and wound healing. Better yet, a biopsy of the skin proved it, and nobody can argue with that. So, I didn’t have a biopsy of my skin done but can tell you my physical observations were just as good for me, such as increased skin moisture, elasticity, rapid healing, and thicker hair. Of course, results can vary depending on the source of your collagen supplement, as well as other factors regarding your current age and health status.
I am excited to share my personal story with you in regards to my Aethern Supplement experiment. I have been taking a collagen supplement daily “shot” since October 1st, 2019. Taste is pleasant, and I am very compliant with my daily ingestion, so every day, I continued. In an unfortunate but timely moment to test my experiment, I endured a severe cut at the end of December to my hand, stitches definitely needed, but I applied pressure and bandaged it together. I did need a Tetanus shot, and this is the only reason I went to urgent care. One week later, my wound is barely visible. Could this be the collagen supplementation? Yes, I was convinced. I don’t ever remember recovering this quickly, and now that I am older, I definitely would not be LOL. The studies I shared with you earlier prove that it can thicken the skin and make it heal faster. Plastic surgeons are recommending Aethern 2-3 months before any surgery and continuing 4-6 months afterward because it makes a difference in recovery and by reducing the chance for scarring.
Moving on, let me share my other experience with Aethern, which was my hair! My last visit to my hairdresser resulted in many compliments on how healthy and thicker my hair was. Strangely enough, I even noted my clips being too small, could this be true? The clips must have reduced in size, yes, is that it? Fortunately for me, no! That said, I would conclude my personal experience was successful! I am living proof of the positive results from collagen supplement intake, specifically Aethern Collagen Supplements, to the point that I am afraid to stop!
If you are on the fence of starting one, you may change your mind in knowing that collagen production starts slowing down in your mid-20s. Your collagen content declines as you age and even accelerates with hormonal changes that begin in your 30s. Think of collagen as the “scaffolding” in your skin that props it up. Important, no? It is an essential protein in which the studies I mentioned have shown that specific collagen intake could improve the skin structure and the hallmarks of skin aging. Who wouldn’t love that?
I would love to hear about your experience with the collagen supplements you have been loyal to using! Curious about Aethern, please don’t hesitate to reach out with any Qs? I am so confident you will love that you can purchase now and start treating beauty from within! MUAH!????
Diva Tip: As with anything in life, compliance is the key to success!
Renata Block is the creator of Savvy Derm Diva and is a Dermatology Physician Assistant practicing at Advanced Dermatology & Aesthetic Medicine, LLC in Chicago. Follow her on IG, Twitter, and FB @savvydermdiva
