Did you know that collagen is the most plentiful protein in the human body? It’s tasked with maintaining the strength and flexibility of the skin, hair, nails, joints, tendons, ligaments, bones, blood vessels and other tissues.
But as we age, collagen production begins to decrease. And factors such as frequent sun exposure, excess sugar consumption and tobacco use also don’t help matters. Sadly, the results of this degenerative process are often evident in the form of sagging skin, wrinkles, cellulite and joint pain.
Fortunately, the taut skin and lustrous locks of your youth don’t have to be a distant memory. There are many products designed to help replenish the body’s dwindling collagen supply. Following are 10 especially effective ones to consider:
Looking to add life to your lackluster locks? Perfect for all hair types, this must-try shampoo combines “amino rich collagen peptides with powerful supernutrient blends” to improve your hair’s density and elasticity. Enjoy a thicker, fuller, more youthful mane without the use of BPA, DEA/TEA, parabens, phthalates, sulfates or synthetic color or fragrance.
Free of gluten, soy and GMOs, these convenient tablets contain “pure collagen protein Peptan®, which contributes to the growth and maintenance of healthy tissues,” plus vitamin C, which helps your body synthesize the collagen. Have a tough time swallowing tablets? Try these coated capsules instead!
These once-a-day collagen supplements are a great way to give your body a much-needed nutritional boost. You’ll love their gummy texture and bright citrus flavor—almost as much as their skin-enhancing benefits!
Enjoy a daily tablespoon of this delicious liquid collagen supplement—on its own or mixed with water. It “combines NeoCell’s award winning, clinically tested BioActive NeoCell Collagen, with the antioxidant power of pomegranate, green tea, cranberry, elderberry and ionic minerals for added absorption.”
Start your day by adding a single scoop of this powerful powder to a glass of water or OJ. It’s free of artificial flavors, corn, gluten, GMOs, lactose, soy, starch, wheat and yeast, and your skin, hair, nails, bones and joints will reap the rewards!
6. Collagen tea
This “exotic blend of hydrolyzed collagen peptides and white tea” takes the benefits of a cuppa to the next level by infusing your “skin, body and spirit with renewal and radiance.” Now, who’s going to make the finger sandwiches?
These paleo-approved chocolate hazelnut bars provide a truly unique—and totally tasty—way to increase your collagen supply. Free of dairy, gluten and soy, they are also a super source (15 whopping grams!) of protein.
“Add the appearance of firmer-looking skin and moisture-building benefits each time you apply this smoothing luxurious lotion on your body.” Formulated with premium soluble collagen, it can also help combat the slackened skin that often accompanies weight loss!
Visible signs of aging, like fine lines and wrinkles, are no match for this smart serum for your face and neck. It uses vegetable collagen to boost the skin’s resilience, and doesn’t contain any gluten, mineral oil, parabens, petrolatum, phthalates, silicone or sodium lauryl sulfate.
10. Collagen chews
Go gourmet all the way with flavorful chews! Look for all-natural, gluten- and soy-free formulas to strengthen your skin, hyaluronic acid to moisturize it from within and vitamin C to aid in the process.