Collagen is the unsung hero component of our body that gives strength and structure to our joints, hair, skin, and nails. If you’re a skincare buff, you’re probably well aware that this is the most abundant type of protein produced by the body. Think of it as a glue that binds the cells and tissues together, all while keeping us looking youthful and radiant from within. It’s the one-step hair, skin, and nail routine that’s probably missing from your life, not that expensive face serum or hair oil you’ve been eyeing for a week.
Collagen is present in our bodies, and we derive it from food too. However, as we age, the production of collagen in our bodies naturally dwindles. This eventually leads to dry skin, wrinkles, joint pain, and lackluster hair. In this article, we’ll explore how collagen peptides are useful with tissue repair and their role when it comes to your hair, skin, joint, and nail health.
What are collagen peptides?
As stated above, collagen is an essential building block for the body, so where do collagen peptides fit in? Well, collagen peptides, or hydrolyzed collagen, are nothing but collagen proteins that are broken down into smaller, more digestible molecules through a process called hydrolysis. Collagen peptides are a good form of collagen supplements because they’re easily absorbed by the body.
They’re also more bioavailable than other forms of collagen supplements, like collagen protein powders, gelatin, etc.
Additionally, most of the collagen peptide supplements available on the market are free from any fishy odor and dissolve quickly in liquids, making them the most sought-after and versatile option for those looking to add collagen to their diet. It can be effortlessly mixed with smoothies, coffee, milkshakes, etc., and incorporated into your daily meals. Aside from powder form, collagen peptides are also available in other formats, like effervescent tablets, delayed-release capsules, etc., to keep up with the growing demand for this ingredient. Overall, collagen peptides are not just a convenient but also an effective way to integrate additional collagen for skin that also caters to your joints, hair, skin, and nails.
Why are marine collagen peptides better than other forms of collagen?
Marine collagen is derived from fish, unlike other forms of collagen that come from cows, pigs, or chickens. Marine collagen supplements are a great source of type 1 collagen and are considered superior due to their smaller particle size. This allows for easier and faster absorption and transportation of the collagen peptides to the skin, bones, and joints for the synthesis of new collagen. This leads to effective results in terms of skin hydration, joint pain relief, healthier hair, and more.
Type 1 collagen is also the most abundant form of collagen found in our bodies, making it easier for the body to absorb and retain it.
Benefits of collagen supplements aside, it is important to note that not all sources of marine collagen peptides are equal or the same. The quality of the collagen is highly dependent on factors like the type of fish, where it was found, and the extraction method. To find the best collagen, look for marine collagen sourced from wild-caught fish, as they are free of harmful antibiotics and GMO feed.
Let’s look at how marine collagen peptides are the ideal collagen for hair, skin, nails, and joint health with a brief overview of the potential benefits of collagen supplements.
Advantages for hair:
Hair is primarily made of a protein known as keratin. You may have read about this protein in the ingredients of common hair care products on the market. To build this keratin, the body needs several amino acids, a lot of which come from collagen. Collagen for hair plays an important part in replenishing hair follicles to maintain hair strength and thickness. According to research, the presence of collagen during the anagen (hair growth) stage provides the best nourishment to the hair bulb, creating the ideal environment for the production of stronger strands. It provides the hair follicles with the building blocks for maintaining their elasticity, texture, and structure. Furthermore, collagen for hair can also act as an antioxidant and protect the hair follicles against the damage caused by oxidation.
Advantages for skin:
Collagen is a key component of skin, and a decrease of collagen in the body can cause skin troubles like wrinkles, dry skin, aging, and fine lines. The abundance of skin care products at our disposal can wreak havoc on our skin’s barrier if used incorrectly. Even exposure to impure, polluted air can have undesirable effects on our skin over time. When taken through a good source of skin collagen supplements, skin collagen peptides can help your body build a stronger skin barrier and add much-needed plumpness and bounce to your skin and lips. It does so by penetrating the deeper layers of your skin instead of simply working on the top layers as a topical cream would. The process of skin collagen absorption also aids the body in inducing the production of more elastin. This makes wrinkles and fine lines less visible, giving you radiant skin that everyone can’t help but notice!
Advantages for nails:
Countless nail treatments over a period of time can damage our nail beds and make the nails brittle. Sure, a biweekly manicure can make your nails look glamorous, but it can also make the nails thinner and brittle with age. Marine collagen can provide the necessary amino acid called arginine, which helps promote nail growth and overall health.
Advantages for joints:
While this might come as a surprise to some, marine collagen peptides are highly beneficial for joint health. It helps our bones take hold of calcium and use it properly. Collagen is also a key component of cartilage, a tissue that provides cushioning for the joints and helps the bones and joints absorb shock and friction. Since collagen is the building block of these cartilages, its decline can lead to the joints becoming stiff, joint pain, and decreased overall mobility after a certain age. Marine collagen peptides and calcium can benefit people with osteoarthritis and other joint disorders that come with age. It is also beneficial for reducing bone density loss in post-menopausal women.
Wrapping up
Collagen is an essential protein that supports the health of the skin, hair, joints, and bones, among other tissues in the body. In particular, marine collagen peptides are considered advantageous because of their tiny molecular size and high bioavailability. Those looking to improve their overall health and wellness should consider adding marine collagen peptides to their daily routine.