Among the mass of beauty and skincare trends taking over 2018, you have all most probably heard of collagen supplements. Whilst it not top secret that collagen is an essential protein to humans for it can help keep skin firm and youthful. As the body naturally ages, collagen decreases by as much as 1.5% per year after the age of 25 contributing to thinning and wrinkling of the skin. Not to worry as there is possibility of a collagen supplement helping this but are all collagen supplements the same. 

We care about our readers and always aim to give the most up to date information on supplements. Read on to find out why not all collagen supplements are the same.

Different types of collagen

Currently there are 28 types of collagen in the body with Type I collagen being the most abundant and strongest by weight. Current evidence shows it makes up 80% of the dermis layer of the skin hence why this type of collagen is considered to be key building protein, which gives our skin its structure. 

Type II collagen is commonly found in movable joints and is most likely used in a supplement to help treat joint aging and relieve pain associated with joint disorders such as arthritis. 

Type III collagen is the second most abundant collagen within the human body. It is found alongside type I but mostly in reticular fibres.

Difference in collagen process

The problem with collagen molecules is that they are simply too large to absorb unless they have been hydrolysed. Hydrolysed collagen is a process in which collagen fibres are broken down into small collagen chains known as collagen peptides. This process allows collagen peptides to be absorbed into the bloodstream, penetrate and remain in the dermis as shown by clinical studies. 

Source of collagen

There are four main sources of hydrolysed collagen found in supplements; bovine (cow), porcine (pig), marine (fish) and chicken collagen.  Its essential to remember that there is no scientific study to show that marine or bovine collagen are superior to one another as this is dependent on dietary needs.  Current studies show that bovine and marine collagen is two of the most absorbable sourced collagens in the market.  It’s essential to read the ingredients and find out where the collagen has been sourced from i.e the animal’s environment and how it was grown. 

What to look for in a collagen supplement

When looking for a beauty supplement, its essential to find one which contains type I and type III collagen and to keep an eye out for the hydrolysed collagen as many products are claimed to be collagen builders but do not contain any collagen peptides. The primary source should be bovine collagen and sourced from non-GMO happy cows such as the ones that Neocell use as these cows are allowed to be in their natural environment without being given any artificial growth enhancers or feed unnatural food. These cows are grass fed happy cows in their most natural environment and produce clinically studied collagen, which has been shown to work such as our Neocell range.

Learn more about the amazing NeoCell range here - https://www.kijaniliving.com/brands/neocell.html