Benefits of Collagen

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body and plays a crucial role in keeping our skin, hair, and nails healthy. It’s made up of amino acids such as proline and glycine, which are essential for the strength and structure of connective tissues, muscles, and even vital organs.

As we age, our natural collagen production decreases, leading to signs like wrinkles, dull skin, and weaker hair or nails. Factors such as stress, poor diet, and sun exposure can speed up this process. While many beauty products and shampoos advertise collagen-boosting benefits, these effects are mostly surface-level. The real benefits of collagen come from within—through proper nutrition or supplements that support the body’s own collagen production for healthier skin, stronger hair, and improved overall wellness.

What is Collagen?

Collagen is a long-chain amino acid and the most common protein found in the human body. It’s made up of amino acids such as glycine, proline, hydroxyproline, and arginine, and naturally exists only in animal tissues—particularly in bones and connective tissues.

This essential protein provides skin with elasticity, gives hair its resilience, and helps connective tissues maintain structure and stability. Collagen accounts for about 30% of the body’s total protein and roughly 70% of the protein found in the skin.

However, as we age, our body’s collagen production naturally slows down. Additionally, lifestyle factors such as stress, poor nutrition, and digestive imbalances can further reduce the body’s ability to produce collagen effectively.

Gelatin vs. Collagen

Though the terms are often used interchangeably, collagen and gelatin are not exactly the same.

Collagen is the original protein naturally found in the body, while gelatin is created when collagen is heated or boiled. Both share a similar amino acid composition, but their forms and uses differ—especially when it comes to supplements.

Collagen Powder: Also known as hydrolyzed collagen or collagen peptides, this form is made by breaking down gelatin into smaller peptide chains, making it easier to digest and absorb. It’s ideal for people with sensitive digestion. Collagen powder dissolves easily in both hot and cold liquids, has no taste, and blends well into smoothies, coffee, or soups. However, it doesn’t thicken or gel, so it’s not suitable for recipes that require a gelatin texture.
Gelatin Powder: Often derived from grass-fed or pastured animal sources, gelatin is the pure form of collagen that becomes gel-like when mixed with liquid and cooled. It’s frequently used in diets like GAPS and SCD for its gut-soothing properties. From a culinary standpoint, it’s perfect for making homemade gummies, marshmallows, or jellies. Bone broth naturally contains gelatin because slow cooking breaks down collagen from bones and connective tissues, causing it to thicken when refrigerated.

In the past, people consumed more natural collagen and gelatin through home-cooked meals such as soups, stews, and bone-based dishes. Modern diets, however, often lack these traditional foods, leading to reduced collagen intake.

Benefits of Collagen for Skin

Although collagen supports the entire body, its most visible benefits are seen in the skin. As we age, the epidermis—the skin’s outer layer—gradually becomes thinner and loses elasticity, a process known as elastosis. This leads to common signs of aging, such as fine lines and wrinkles.

The encouraging news is that these effects are not necessarily permanent. A double-blind placebo-controlled study found that women who consumed collagen hydrolysate (the peptide form of collagen) for eight weeks experienced a 20% reduction in wrinkles.

Even more notably, the same study reported a 65% increase in procollagen type I and an 18% rise in elastin levels in participants who took collagen peptides compared to those given a placebo. Since procollagen is the precursor to collagen, these findings suggest that collagen supplementation can enhance the body’s natural collagen production process.

The study also showed improvements in skin elasticity and hydration, both of which tend to decline with age. It’s important to mention that these benefits were observed with the hydrolyzed or peptide form of collagen, which is more easily digested and absorbed by the body. While there isn’t enough research directly comparing gelatin and collagen for skin health, the peptide form appears to be the most effective choice for maintaining youthful, healthy skin.

Other Benefits

While the visible effects of collagen are most apparent in the skin, its internal benefits are equally—if not more—important. Research has shown that collagen plays a valuable role in several key areas of overall health:

Bone and Joint Health: Collagen supports the structure and flexibility of bones and joints much like it does for the skin. By enhancing the body’s natural collagen synthesis and supplying essential amino acids, it may promote joint comfort and bone strength. In one double-blind, placebo-controlled study, participants taking collagen experienced a noticeable reduction in joint pain.
Hormone Balance: Preliminary studies suggest that the amino acids found in collagen can help balance the body’s amino acid profile and support healthy hormone production, contributing to overall hormonal stability.
Digestive Health: Collagen and gelatin may help soothe and protect the lining of the digestive tract, aiding in better digestion and nutrient absorption. For this reason, gelatin is often included in gut-healing diets such as GAPS and SCD, which focus on restoring digestive health.

Where To Find Collagen

There are many reliable sources of high-quality collagen and gelatin powders available today. When choosing one, it’s essential to ensure that the product is derived from grass-fed, pasture-raised, and humanely treated animals and comes from a trusted manufacturer.

Always look for products that are:

Sourced from pasture-raised animals, ensuring better nutritional quality and ethical production.
Packaged in BPA-free containers, which helps maintain purity and prevents chemical contamination.

Selecting collagen and gelatin from reputable, transparent brands guarantees you’re getting a clean, safe, and effective supplement for your health.

Conclusion

Collagen is an essential protein that supports the health of your skin, hair, nails, joints, bones, and digestive system. While the body naturally produces collagen, factors like aging, stress, and poor nutrition can reduce its levels over time. Supplementing with high-quality collagen or gelatin—especially from grass-fed, pasture-raised sources—can help replenish these vital proteins and promote overall well-being. Whether you’re aiming to improve skin elasticity, strengthen joints, or support gut health, incorporating collagen into your daily routine offers long-term benefits that go far beyond appearance.