Given that collagen is the main building block of skin and is responsible (along with hyaluronic acid and elastin) for keeping your skin looking plump and firm, it's no surprise that companies are coming up with more and more ways to incorporate it into your beauty routine. While collagen injections can get pricy, and collagen infused creams are essentially ineffective (the collagen molecule is too large to be absorbed topically through the skin), ingesting the best collagen powders for skin seems to be more promising.
"Collagen is mostly found in fibrous tissues such as tendons, ligaments, and the dermis of the skin, where it acts as a structural scaffold," says Dawn Thorpe Jarvis, MS, RD, LDN, and senior director of nutrition science and educational content at Garden of Life. "It's also abundant in the cornea of the eye, cartilage, bones, blood vessel walls, the gut lining, intervertebral discs in our backbone, and in teeth and nails," she says of its importance, adding, "As we age, the body's ability to make collagen diminishes significantly starting at around age 30."
How Is Ingesting Collagen Good For Your Skin?
Ingestible forms of collagen claim to boost production back up (they also may help ease joint pain and help build muscle, because collagen is such a high source of protein). But because the scientific studies on the supplements are so new, there is some debate. Many dermatologists point out that when you ingest collagen, your stomach acids break down the proteins before they reach the skin. Jarvis notes that you can still ensure skin care benefits, though — as long as you know what to look for.
How To Choose The Best Collagen Powder For Your Skin?
"Look for collagen peptides which are predigested so the body can absorb them easily," she says. "Look for the big three amino acids — glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline — in appreciable amounts," she adds, explaining that these are the most important amino acids found in collagen.
"Only buy from a reputable clean source that is third party-tested," Jarvis says when looking for a collagen powder. Certifications from the NSF or USP are what you should look for, because supplements aren't closely regulated by the FDA. These third party seals generally mean the product in question contains the ingredients advertised on the label and not any dangerous substances. And of course, before adding any sort of supplement to your diet, always consult with a doctor or health care provider first.
While further research is needed to determine the full benefits of ingesting collagen, ahead, you'll find four of the best collagen powders for your skin— including Jarvis' pick — to get you started.