"Think of collagen as the hidden framework of your most radiant self. It's the scaffolding that supports skin's elasticity and strength, allowing your inner vitality to surface. At Aurelia, we harness its power to redefine beauty from the inside out."

The power of collagen: benefits for skin and beyond

The power of collagen: benefits for skin and beyond
Black and white portrait of a man wearing a suit on a white background

Written by Jonathan Lane Associated Director of Research, Innovation, and Translational Science

Collagen accounts for 30 % of your body’s total protein¹. Think of it as scaffolding that support your skin’s elasticity and hair strength, as well as your mobility.

As our natural collagen levels start declining in our mid-twenties², it becomes harder to maintain supple skin, strong hair, and flexible joints.

Collagen supplements have surged in popularity, with promises to enhance our natural beauty from the inside out. It’s time to explore how collagen, vitamins, shots and other supplementation can help you maintain a youthful glow and embrace ageless beauty.

In this guide, we’ll explore why collagen is so important, its benefits, its formats and more about this vital protein:

  • Understanding collagen
  • What does collagen do to the skin?
  • Collagen shots: a convenient and effective option? 
  • Other potential benefits of collagen
  • Debunking collagen myths
  • Choosing the right collagen supplement: what to consider
  • Frequently asked questions

Understanding collagen

Collagen is a vital structural protein. There are 28 known variations³, each with a unique role in maintaining our body’s integrity and vitality. Collagen beauty supplements typically include Type I, Type II, or Type III—or a mixture of the three⁴.

  • Type  I: The most abundant type, accounting for 90% of the collagen in the human body⁵. It provides structural support to the skin, tendons, and bones.
  • Type II: Specialised in cartilage, supporting joint health and flexibility. It’s often used in joint supplements.
  • Type III: Works alongside Type I, forming the framework of organs and contributing to elasticity and tissue firmness.

Benefits of collagen 

Collagen's influence extends far beyond the surface, playing a vital role in everything from the integrity of our skin to the strength of bone and muscle.

  • Skin health – collagen supports your skin’s internal structure, reducing wrinkles and enhancing hydration⁶ for a plump, radiant, and youthful glow .
  • Joint strength – move with ease and embrace an active lifestyle. Collagen supports cartilage, helping to maintain joint stability and elasticity⁷. 
  • Bone density – collagen contributes to bone density and strength, providing a robust framework for the body⁸.
  • Muscle mass – collagen supports muscle mass and strength⁹, helping to maintain an active and healthy lifestyle.
  • Hair and nail strength – nourish strong, heathy hair and nails. Collagen provides the essential building blocks for growth and preventing breakage¹⁰.

While collagen is essential for  skin vitality, several factors can contribute to its breakdown over time:

  • Aging – as we age, our natural collagen production declines, leading to reduced skin elasticity and joint flexibility.
  • Sun exposure – too much sunlight reduces collagen production, and can accelerate break down.
  • Smoking – nicotine-based products can impair collagen production and damage collagen and elastin.
  • Poor diet – excess sugar and refine carbs can damage proteins and weaken collagen¹¹.
  • Inflammation – diets high in processed foods can contribute to inflammation, exacerbating collagen breakdown¹².

What does collagen do to the skin?

Collagen is the foundation of youthful, radiant skin. It's the most abundant protein in our bodies, providing structure, strength, and elasticity to our skin.

It's what allows our skin to bounce back from daily stressors, minimising the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Without sufficient collagen, your skin can lose its elasticity, leading to sagging, dullness, and a more aged appearance.

Collagen also plays a crucial role in hydration, helping your skin retain moisture and stay supple and dewy. Well-hydrated skin is less prone to dryness, irritation, and visible signs of ageing. It’s the key to a healthy, radiant complexion.

Forms of collagen

  • Powders

    Like our ETERNACELL ™ Collagen Revive, powdered collagen can be effortlessly blended into smoothies or shakes, making it easy to fit into your lifestyle. A cost-effective way to nourish your skin from within.

  • Capsules or tablets

    Supplements like our ETERNACELL™ Absolute Beauty or Skin Perfection blend convenience and portability with pre-measured doses. Collagen beauty tablets are ideal for on-the-go lifestyles.

  • Liquid

    Often marketed as liquid collagen shots or collagen shot vitamins, this format may offer faster absorption¹³ ¹⁴. Collagen drinks are a quick and convenient way to boost your collagen levels.

  • Sachets

    Collagen sachets offer pre-portioned powder, balancing convenience with a measured dose. Perfect for travel or on-the-go use.

  • Hydrolysed collagen

    Hydrolysed collagen is the key to unlocking collagen’s full potential. This specialised process breaks down large molecules, enhancing their bioavailability¹⁵ and making them easier to absorb. It ensures your body can readily utilise collagen's benefits for radiant skin and overall vitality.

Collagen shots: a convenient and effective option?

Collagen shots have surged in popularity as a quick and easy way to boost collagen levels. These premixed and ready-to-drink shots eliminate the need for measuring or mixing, making them a convenient addition to your daily routine.

Benefits of collagen shots

The portable format of collagen shots makes them ideal for travel, gym bags, or simply keeping on hand whenever and wherever you need a quick boost of collagen.

The liquid form of collagen shots may offer faster absorption, potentially allowing for quicker delivery of collagen peptides to the bloodstream.

Collagen shots are often enriched with additional vitamins – like vitamin C – antioxidants, and other skin-loving ingredients, creating a blend that enhances the overall benefits of the supplement and supports your radiant glow.

Considerations of collagen shots

When deciding whether collagen shots is right for you, consider these factors :

  • Collagen shots are typically more expensive per serving compared to powdered supplements, but the convenience may be worth the investment for some.
  • The taste of collagen shots can vary, so choose shots with natural flavourings to ensure a pleasant experience.
  • The concentration of collagen in a shot may be lower compared to a full serving of collagen powder or capsules, so check the label to ensure you’re getting an adequate dose.

Other potential benefits of collagen

While collagen is celebrated for its remarkable effects on skin, its potential extends far beyond the surface. Emerging research suggests that this vital protein may also play a supportive role in various other aspects of our overall wellbeing, contributing to a healthier, more vibrant you.

Studies have suggested collagen supplementation may help promote bone health, particularly for those experiencing age-related discomfort¹⁷, providing a robust framework for the body. Research also indicates that specific collagen peptides may support bone mineral density in postmenopausal women¹⁸, helping them maintain their strength and vitality.

Collagen may contribute to gut lining integrity, promoting a healthy digestive system. It’s even been suggested that collagen supplementation may help support a balanced gut microbiome¹⁹. A healthy gut is essential for overall wellbeing and radiant health.

It's important to remember that while these findings are promising, more research is needed to fully understand and confirm the extent of collagen's benefits in these areas. Collagen supplementation should be viewed as a complement to a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, rather than a replacement for medical treatment.

Debunking collagen myths

In the ever-evolving world of beauty and wellness, it's easy to get lost in the noise. We’ll clear up some common misconceptions surrounding collagen supplementation, so you can make informed choices for your unique beauty journey.

Collagen supplements are a quick fix for aging. While collagen can support healthy skin and overall vitality, true radiance comes from a holistic approach. Embrace a balanced diet, regular exercise, and mindful self-care for a truly ageless glow.

All collagen supplements are created equal. The quality and effectiveness of collagen supplements can vary significantly. That’s why it’s essential to choose reputable brands that prioritise quality control and utilise hydrolysed collagen for optimal absorption. Look for brands you can trust to deliver real results.

Collagen supplements can replace a healthy diet. While collagen can be a valuable addition to your routine, it's foremost effective when combined with a nutrient-rich diet. Nourish your body with a balanced diet to provide the essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants it needs to thrive.

Choosing the right collagen supplement: what to consider

Navigating the world of collagen supplements can feel overwhelming, but with a few key principles in mind, you can confidently choose a product that perfectly supports your unique beauty journey.

  • Look out for hydrolysed collagen: the key to unlocking collagen’s full potential. This form is designed for optimal absorption, ensuring your body can readily utilise its benefits.
  • Consider your specific needs: are you seeking skin radiance (Type I) or joint support (Type II)? Understanding your goals will help you choose the right collagen for you.
  • Always opt for reputable brands: prioritise brands known for quality and transparency, like Aurelia – where science meets skin and nature meets nurture. We’re committed to providing you with the highest quality collagen supplements for visible results.

By carefully considering these factors, you can confidently select a collagen supplement that empowers you to unlock your radiant potential and embrace ageless vitality.

Remember, appropriate dosages and individual health conditions should always be taken into account. It's important to be aware of potential side effects or interactions with medications. While collagen is generally considered safe, it's always best to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, especially if you have underlying health conditions.

Back

THE AURELIA COLLECTION

¹Wang, S., et al., Promoting collagen synthesis: a viable strategy to combat skin ageing. Journal of Enzyme Inhibition and Medicinal Chemistry, 2025. 40(1): p. 2488821.
²https://www.vogue.co.uk/beauty/article/best-collagen-supplements#:~:text=%2C%20our%20own%20natural%20supply%20of%20it%20starts%20to%20decline%20in%20our%20mid%2Dtwenties
³Ricard-Blum, S., The collagen family. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Biol, 2011. 3(1): p. a004978.
⁴https://www.vogue.co.uk/beauty/article/best-collagen-supplements#types
⁵https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/collagen#what-it-is:~:text=type%20I%20collagen%20accounting%20for%2090%25%20of%20the%20collagen%20in%20the%20human%20body.
⁶https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/collagen#benefits-of-supplements:~:text=collagen%20improved%20skin%20hydration%2C%20elasticity%2C%20and%20wrinkles%20compared%20with%20placebo%20treatments.
⁷https://www.vogue.co.uk/beauty/article/best-collagen-supplements#jointhealth:~:text=As%20well%20as%20repairing%20cartilage%20and%20maintaining%20its%20stability%20and%20elasticity
⁸König, D., et al., Specific Collagen Peptides Improve Bone Mineral Density and Bone Markers in Postmenopausal Women-A Randomized Controlled Study. Nutrients, 2018. 10(1)
⁹https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4594048/
¹⁰https://et-chem.com/hair-and-nails-are-composed-of-collagen-the-building-blocks/?utm_source=chatgpt.com#hair-and-nails-the-collagen-connection-DttwmGZLTk
¹¹https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/23089-collagen#:~:text=Eating%20too%20much%20sugar%20and%20refined%20carbs
¹²https://dubailondonclinic.com/dr-umesh-on-how-consuming-junk-food-impact-overall-skin-health/#:~:text=Over%20time%2C%20with%20cumulative%20exposure,leading%20to%20premature%20collagen%20degradation
¹³https://www.absolutecollagen.com/pages/liquid-collagen-pills-and-capsules#:~:text=What%27s%20liquid%20collagen%20and%20how%20does%20it%20work%3F
¹⁴https://www.healthline.com/health/food-nutrition/liquid-collagen#vs-powder-collagen:~:text=Liquid%20collagen%20vs.%20powder%20and%20other%20forms
¹⁵https://www.vogue.co.uk/beauty/article/best-collagen-supplements#jointhealth:~:text=Bioavailabilty%3A%20All%20of%20the%20doctors%20and%20nutritionists%20we%20consulted%20agree%20that%20it%20is%20best%20to%20look%20for%20hydrolysed%20collagen%20supplements.
¹⁶https://www.trueyouskinclinics.co.uk/is-powdered-or-liquid-collagen-best/
¹⁷https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/is-taking-collagen-beneficial-for-older-adults
¹⁸https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5793325/
¹⁹https://planetpaleo.co/blogs/blog/7-benefits-of-collagen-for-gut-health-digestion?srsltid=AfmBOooOnX9UO9IE2YXsVGV4RlUizCwGbKYGbmj-_5Tk7R_D2TPvMx1h
²⁰https://www.bbc.co.uk/food/articles/collagen_supplements#:~:text=There%20are%20some%20studies%20which,collagen%20density%20in%20the%20skin
²¹https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/collagen-benefits#faq