We are constantly searching for the ultimate skin care routine or product that will give us the craved youthful glow. Imagine, though, that you could improve the brightness and vibrancy of your skin with a single, easy change to your regular regimen. Introducing collagen supplements, an effective ally in your pursuit of a radiant, younger complexion.
Bart Ratus, General Manager from UK-based health, nutrition, and food supplements company Osavi, explains how you can strengthen and improve the appearance of the hair, skin and nails with their new skin, hair and nails advanced collagen supplement, containing bioactive collagen peptides to enhance production and reduce the impacts of ageing from the inside out.
Why do hair, skin & nails need collagen?
Making up about 30% of the human body’s total protein, collagen is an essential building block in hair, skin, and nails, providing strength, structure, and support. Collagen supports elastin production, helping skin to appear plump, hydrated and firm. Natural collagen production in the body starts to reduce from the age of 25, before finally stopping at the age of 60, with modern life stressors such as stress, menopause, and smoking diminishing production further.
Collagen can improve the physical symptoms of menopause such as thinning hair, wrinkles, and sagging skin. Younger women are also able to enjoy the anti-aging benefits, topping up their body’s reserves to maintain their hair, skin, and nail health at a time when it starts to decline.
What are collagen peptides?
Collagen peptides are a special form of collagen, in which the protein has been hydrolysed. Whilst there are loads of products on the market, Osavi Skin, Hair & Nails Collagen is formulated using patented VERISOL® bovine bioactive collagen peptides made by world-leading producer Gelita which are optimised to stimulate production in the body.
VERISOL® is clinically proven to improve hair thickness, improve skin elasticity, reduce wrinkles, and improve the structure and appearance of nails. VERISOL® directly stimulates the collagen metabolism in the dermis whilst creams and other topical products only reach the outer layers of the skin.
Skin health, hair health and nail health
Studies on VERISOL® supplementation have shown that it directly stimulates the collagen metabolism increasing pro-collagen concentration in the skin. In one independent study, women who supplemented VERISOL® saw the pro-collagen concentration in their skin increase by 60%.
Hair follicles rely on the protein as it is rich in amino acids such as keratin, vital for strong, thick healthy hair, which can withstand damage. A clinical study into the impact of VERISOL® on the hair showed women who supplemented VERISOL saw an increase in hair thickness of 1.93mm and proliferation index by 31% in only 16 weeks compared to the placebo group.
Collagen also supports the appearance and structure of nails, preventing brittleness and helping them to grow and strengthen.
In a clinical study, women supplementing VERISOL® achieved a global clinical improvement in brittle nails and 88% of patients experienced an improvement in the appearance of their nails after only four weeks of treatment. This was also clinically proven to make a long-term difference, with women who supplemented VERISOL® seeing a 12% increase in nail growth rate after only 3 months and a decrease of 42% in the frequency of broken nails after 6 months.
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Ways to increase your body’s production and intake
Now that we’ve uncovered the wonders of collagen as a supplement, you’re probably wondering how you can maximise its benefits and ensure optimal absorption. We have compiled a list of simple strategies to help you increase your intake and make the most out of this remarkable protein.
Supplements
The easiest and most convenient way to boost your collagen levels is through supplements. These are available in various forms such as pills, powders, and liquids. Choose a high-quality supplement derived from sustainable sources, and follow the recommended dosage instructions for best results.
Containing 2.5g of collagen per serving, which is an optimum amount to make a difference, Osavi’s Skin, Hair & Nails Collagen is completely natural, contains no filler ingredients and is available in a super smooth and tasteless powder. This means it can easily be added into a smoothie, coffee, or even your favourite recipe to super-boost it so you can reap the benefits and reduce the impact of ageing. It is clinically tested for effectiveness and each batch is lab tested to ensure purity and safety. Remember to consult your healthcare provider before starting any new dietary supplement.
Nutrient-Rich Foods
A well-rounded diet plays a vital role in supporting production. Include foods that are rich in collagen-boosting nutrients, such as:
Protein
Your body needs an adequate amount of protein for production. Incorporate lean meats, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy products, legumes, and plant-based proteins like tofu and tempeh into your meals.
Vitamin C
This vitamin is essential for collagen synthesis. Enjoy a variety of citrus fruits, berries, kiwi, bell peppers, broccoli, and leafy greens to ensure a good vitamin C intake.
Antioxidant-Rich Foods
Antioxidants help protect collagen from damage caused by free radicals. Add colourful fruits and vegetables like tomatoes, berries, spinach, and kale to your plate.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Found in fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines, as well as walnuts and chia seeds, omega-3 fatty acids promote healthy skin and support production.
Bone Broth
A time-honoured tradition, bone broth is rich in collagen and can be a delicious addition to your diet. Simmering bones (such as chicken, beef, or fish) for an extended period extracts the protein, minerals, and other nutrients. Sip on a warm cup of bone broth or incorporate it into soups, stews, and sauces.
Collagen-Boosting Herbs and Spices
Certain herbs and spices are known to support production. Turmeric, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves are excellent examples. Sprinkle these flavourful additions into your meals to give your collagen levels an extra boost.
Avoid Collagen Degraders
In addition to increasing intake, it’s essential to minimise factors that can degrade collagen in your body. Limit your consumption of refined sugars, processed foods, excessive alcohol, and smoking, as these can accelerate breakdown of the protein.
Skincare Products with Collagen-Boosting Ingredients
Alongside dietary changes, consider incorporating skincare products containing collagen-boosting ingredients, such as peptides, hyaluronic acid, retinol, and vitamin C. These can help support production topically and complement your supplement routine.
By combining these strategies, you can increase your intake and optimise its absorption, giving your skin the nourishment it needs to stay plump, firm, and youthful. Remember, consistency is key, so make these practices a part of your daily routine for long-lasting results.
Benefits for inside and out
Osavi’s range features four different kinds of collagen supplements: Joints & Bones, Hair, Skin & Nails, Tendons & Ligaments and Hydrolysed Type I & III. Each supplement is individually designed for specific uses and needs, meaning there is something for everyone, using specific high doses of patented bioactive peptides and including additional natural ingredients to specifically increase each product’s benefits and effectiveness as demonstrated in clinical trials.
By incorporating supplements into your daily routine and following simple strategies to increase intake and absorption, you can enhance your skin’s health and appearance. Whether it’s through high-quality supplements, nutrient-rich foods, bone broth, collagen-boosting herbs and spices, or mindful lifestyle choices, you have the power to nourish your skin from within.
Remember, the magic doesn’t stop there. Collagen supplements can also support joint health, aid in digestion, promote hair and nail growth, and contribute to overall well-being. The benefits extend beyond the surface, offering a holistic approach to beauty and vitality.
However, it’s essential to approach supplementation with knowledge and care. Consult with your healthcare provider to determine the best approach for your specific needs and to ensure compatibility with any existing medical conditions or medications.
As you embark on your collagen journey, be patient and consistent. Results may vary from person to person, but with time and commitment, you’ll be rewarded with healthier, more resilient skin that glows with youthful radiance.