So, what’s the buzz around collagen? Let’s start from the basics. Collagen is a super important (and the most abundant) protein in the body also known as structural blocks. There are some 28 types of collagen in the human body, but Type I collagen is the most common type. It helps form bone, cartilage, skin, muscles, and connective tissue. Collagen is fibrous and allows these tissues to stretch without damage (hint: more collagen = less wrinkles!) 

Although our bodies make collagen, the amount decreases naturally as we age. We reach our peak collagen levels in our twenties – after that, it’s a downhill slope. Lifestyle-related factors, such as lack of sleep (guilty), smoking, drinking alcohol, pollution, and getting too much sunshine, also increase this ageing process. The fibers become less tightly packed and start to lose their structure, causing sagging skin and other signs of aging.

But hope is not lost! Collagen supplements are currently all the rage – and with good reason. From strengthening bones to reducing wrinkles, collagen supplements are your anti-aging best friend.

The Benefits of Marine Collagen

Marine collagen comes from fish, freshwater sponges, jellyfish, and other marine animals. These marine animals contain Type I collagen, which is the most common type of collagen in the human body. As opposed to other, land animal sources of collagen (bovine collagen), such as pigs or cattle, marine collagen doesn’t risk carrying diseases, nor does it have religious restrictions. It can also be collected from “waste”, such as fish scales, so it’s a more sustainable way of getting your daily dose of collagen.

Collagen is healing 

Marine collagen can help strengthen bones, which is especially vital as we get older. We all know calcium is essential for building strong bones, but as we age, our bodies have a hard time absorbing that calcium. Marine collagen helps absorb calcium, reducing the risk of osteoporosis. It also helps reduce joint pain, as collagen helps strengthen connective tissues. 

Studies show that supplementing with marine collagen can help increase the rate of wound healing. So, if ever you get a few scrapes and cuts playing outside or after a messy night out (no judgment here), collagen is your best friend for quick recovery.

Collagen for Skin, Hair, and Nails

Now, we all love being healthy from within, but while wound healing and bone health are obviously important, what can collagen do for appearance?

Collagen got its claim to fame from its ability to help reverse and slow down the signs of aging. Signs of aging, such as sagging skin, fine lines, and wrinkles, occur because the fibrous component of collagen breaks down and loosens with age, losing the skin’s firmness and elasticity.

Studies show that taking collagen supplements consistently over a period of three months can improve skin hydration, texture, and fine lines, and wrinkles. It’s much more effective than applying collagen skincare topically, as these proteins are found deep in the skin’s layers. And importantly, because collagen is already a protein found in the body, there are no adverse side effects to taking these supplements, as long as you know what’s in them.

But skin isn’t the only thing that collagen can improve – it also strengthens the nails and hair! The research suggests that collagen supplements can help improve brittle nails, meaning nails get stronger and longer with consistent supplementation over the course of a few months. Say goodbye to broken nails! Studies have also shown that collagen supplements may improve hair thickness. Thicker hair means it’s stronger, less prone to breakage, and healthier overall. 

Gummies, Powders or Tablets?

Marine collagen is available in powder, capsule, or gummy form. While there are advantages to each, gummies are the clear winner in our books.

First, who doesn’t love gummies? Collagen gummies offer a fun (and delicious) way of getting your supplements in. Just like those multivitamin gummies that we all took as kids, Novomins Collagen Gummies will bring back all the nostalgia while giving your skin, hair, and nails the nutrients they need. It’s much more exciting than swallowing a capsule or dissolving powder in your water.

But gummy form isn’t just delicious and fun, it’s also much more convenient. You don’t need liquid, a glass, or a spoon to stir. All you need is the gummy, making it super easy to bring with you on the road or wherever you are. They’re also chewable, which is a savior for those people who hate or simply can’t swallow capsules!

Now onto Novmins Collagen formula (with hyaluronic acid & Vitamin C)

Although marine collagen is the star of the show, it needs its supporting actors to really shine. Our formula contains vitamin C, which increases the body’s production of type I collagen. The combination of these two ingredients means you get the marine collagen from the gummies, plus the vitamin C, which boosts the body’s natural collagen, so you get twice the benefits! 

Biotin (vitamin B7) is another key ingredient in our collagen. It is a water-soluble vitamin that’s part of the B-vitamin group. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has confirmed that biotin helps to support healthy hair and skin. Biotin plays an important role in the production of keratin, which is a protein in the hair, skin, and nails. Studies show that biotin supplements can help with especially brittle nails and uncombable hair. This makes sense, as keratin proteins help smooth out hair, add shine, and reduce frizz. By adding more biotin to your diet, you increase the production of keratin, and your nails and hair will thank you! 

Finally, hyaluronic acid boosts hydration and helps keep the skin soft and glowing. Hyaluronic acid is a gel-like substance that is often used in skincare products. Our bodies also produce hyaluronic acid, but much like collagen, the amount decreases as we age. When skin becomes dehydrated, it also appears duller, increasing the appearance of fine lines. Hyaluronic acid supplements help the skin appear more supple, working synergistically with collagen to make the skin look extra youthful and soft. 

As Aristotle said, the whole is greater than the sum of its parts, and he was definitely talking about our collagen formula. While all of these ingredients work to improve skin, hair, and nails, consuming them together makes each ingredient more effective than on its own.