5 Collagen Myths Debunked

Collagen has exploded in popularity, and with it, a sea of misinformation. As a brand committed to science-backed beauty, we're here to set the record straight. Let's debunk five common myths about collagen.

Myth 1: All Collagen is the Same

This is one of the biggest misconceptions. There are at least 28 different types of collagen, but Types I, II, and III are the most abundant in the human body. Type I is best for skin, hair, and nails, while Type II is crucial for cartilage and joint health. When choosing a supplement, look for hydrolyzed collagen peptides (usually Type I and III) as they are broken down into smaller, more easily absorbed particles.

Myth 2: You Can "Boost" Your Body's Own Collagen Production with Creams

Topical collagen molecules are generally too large to penetrate the dermis, where your body's collagen is actually produced. While collagen creams are excellent for providing a moisturizing barrier and temporarily improving skin appearance, they don't add to your body's structural collagen. To truly support collagen synthesis, you need to provide the building blocks from within through diet and supplements.

Myth 3: Collagen Supplements Work Instantly

Patience is key. Your body needs time to absorb the collagen peptides and use them to rebuild and repair tissues. Most clinical studies show visible improvements in skin hydration, elasticity, and wrinkle reduction after 8-12 weeks of consistent daily use. Don't expect overnight miracles!

Myth 4: Vegan Collagen is Just as Effective

True collagen is exclusively found in animals. "Vegan collagen" products are typically a collection of plant-based amino acids that mimic the profile of collagen, or they use genetically modified yeast and bacteria to produce collagen-like proteins. While these can be beneficial, they are not structurally identical to animal-derived collagen, and research on their efficacy is still emerging. If you follow a vegan diet, focus on foods rich in vitamin C, zinc, and proline to support your body's natural collagen production.

Myth 5: You Get Enough Collagen From Your Diet

While a diet rich in protein is essential, modern food processing often removes collagen-rich parts of animals like skin and tendons. Bone broth is a good source, but the amount of collagen can be inconsistent. A high-quality supplement provides a standardized, concentrated dose that is difficult to achieve through diet alone, especially as natural production declines with age.

By understanding the science, you can make informed choices to effectively support your body's collagen levels for healthier skin, hair, and joints.