We’ve written about it before (see here!) and it’s safe to say that our crush on collagen has only gotten more intense. 

Why’s that? The benefits of this fibrous protein are truly skin deep. Perhaps the most crucial role collagen plays for our body is its gut-healing properties.  Found in our body’s connective tissues (skin and gut lining), collagen not only makes up 25 - 20 % of our bodies’ natural protein content, but it’s who we should call and thank for our ability to build healthy nails, hair, skin, bones, tendons, ligaments, and more. From our flexibility to our skin's elasticity to basic movements such as walking down the stairs,  all of that is possible because of collagen. Think of it as the “glue” that holds our body together.

As with many natural happenings overtime, our body's production of collagen unfortunately begins to decline as we age. This lack of production can be detrimental to our skin health causing lines, wrinkles and less elasticity.  Luckily, there are countless ways to support collagen formation. Both a healthy diet and beauty routine can support the production of collagen as well as efficient absorption and benefitting properties.

Beauty Benefits:

• Supports a healthy glow and vibrant complexion

• Enhances skin clarity and smoothness

• Increase body’s natural moisture levels, improving hair, skin and nails

• Helps maintain firm skin, improving fine lines, loose skin and dryness

• May improve the appearance of cellulite  

Health Benefits:

• May improve digestive health - strengthen and protects the lining of our digestive tract

• May help build muscle and burn fat

• Improve joint health

• Improves liver function

So, if you’re looking to increase your intake of collagen for your overall health, wellness and beautifying goals, we’ve sussed out the cleanest products for your vanity, refrigerator and more.

Collagen-boosting nutrients for strong, healthy skin.

ANTIOXIDANTS

Antioxidants fight against free radicals in the body that break down healthy skin tissue, resulting in rapidly-aging skin.

What to eat: Berries, red grapes, and cherries, protect your connective tissue from free radicals. Vitamin C can be found in  leafy greens, citrus fruits, green peppers, tomatoes and pineapple.

CHROMIUM

Chromium can impact skin health by preventing the breakdown of collagen. A diet high in sugar raises insulin levels and disrupts collagen production.

What to eat:  Brewer's yeast, sweet potatoes, whole grains and peas. You might also optimize chromium levels by taking it in supplement form.

COPPER AND ZINC

Copper and zinc maximize the function of antioxidants, leading to the enhanced production of collagen and elastin. These minerals may also contribute to the regeneration of elastic fibers that lead to wrinkles.

What to eat:  Nuts, kidney beans, raisins, and pumpkin seeds.

OMEGA-3S

Omega-3 fatty acids are heart-healthy fats that also have healthy age-promoting, collagen-boosting qualities. Consuming a diet rich in omega-3s supports ligament healing, reduces inflammation and enhances collagen production.

What to eat:  Walnuts, pecans, soybean, flaxseed, and spinach.

PROTEIN

Amino acids are the building blocks of protein. Therefore, a diet with adequate protein provides essential amino acids like proline and lysine necessary for collagen formation. Including these amino acids as a part of a balanced diet helps maintain skin's elasticity and smoothness.

What to eat:  Legumes, cabbage, asparagus, spinach and lean sources of protein.

SILICON

Often referred to as silica, silicon is instrumental in the development of healthy skin, hair, and nails.

What to eat: Bananas, carrots, green beans, cucumbers (with the skin) and brown rice.

SULFUR

Sulfur is one of the most abundant minerals in the body. Instrumental in collagen production, sulfur supports the structure and strength of the body's connective tissue. A diet deficient in this essential nutrient can result in a host of skin problems such as acne and dermatitis as well as  wrinkle formation.

What to eat: Food rich in sulfur like brussels sprouts, kale, fermented vegetables, and onions.

 

Copal Beauty Approved Products with Collagen:

CV Skinlabs Calming Moisture for Face, Neck and Scalp

This super-rescue moisturizer helps to immediately calm, hydrate and nourish chronically dry and flushed skin while returning radiance.

Key Ingredients:

• Beta Glucan – the soluble fiber found in the cell walls of oat kernels; helps promote collagen production, speed wound healing and diminish signs of fine lines and wrinkles.

• Aloe Vera – soothing, calming and moisturizing.

• Oat Extract – reduces redness and itch.

CV Skinlabs Body Repair Lotion

Replenishes and soothes inflamed, dry skin. Ideal for soothing skin suffering from chemotherapy treatments, dermatitis, eczema, radiation burns and post-laser hair removal. Relieves dry, itchy skin.

Key Ingredients:  

• Beta Glucan + St. John’s Wort – possess super moisturizing, collagen-boosting and wound healing properties.

• Calendula + Aloe – a great calming, soothing and anti-inflammatory duo.

 

Earth Harbor Naturals AQUA AURA Reparative Eye Creme

Formulated with a powerhouse of botanicals to help slow down the signs of aging under and around the eyes such as fine lines, wrinkles, dark circles, puffiness and sun damage. The result is a rested, more youthful appearance.

Key Ingredients:

A brightening + moisture-boosting combination of Seaweed Collagen, Blue Tansy, potent antioxidants and replenishing plant oils for firmer, stronger-looking skin around the eye area.

HUM Nutrition Here Comes the Sun

Consider this your daily dose of sunshine. These gel capsules provide 250% of our daily value of Vitamin D have impressive effects on the immune system, bone health, hormone balance and digestive health.  Studies have also shown that Vitamin D can boost elasticity and collagen production in the skin while also reducing the appearance of lines, dark spots and acne.

Honey Belle Rose Quartz Facial Roller

Maximize your skincare routine by incorporating this crystal roller to massage your skin. Facial rolling is a popular facial massage technique that promotes healthy, glowing complexion. The relaxing  practice of rolling may increase some level of lymphatic drainage in the face, which can temporarily reduce swelling as well as improve stress-linked skin conditions, such as rosacea, acne, and psoriasis.