In all honesty, I didn't really know anything about collagen until I turned 30. During my early 30's, I started to noticed significant changes with my skin and my body. Most of my 20's were spent getting away with barely washing my face, not having a skincare regimen and eating whatever I wanted. I didn't take care of myself because I didn't listen to what my body needed. I started to deal with hormonal acne, dermatitis, and eczema. Still till this day in my late 30's, it's a daily struggle.
I first heard about collagen through my mom, since it's been a heavy hitter in the Japanese skincare market for quite sometime. I began to do my own research and used myself as a test bunny to see if I observed any changes. I started to apply it topically and more recently, I've been taking it internally as well. I incorporated a collagen night cream into my skincare routine after I cleansed and moisturized my face. I initially didn't see any miraculous changes, but after a month I noticed my skin looked smoother, more plump and balanced.
My obsession with collagen started soon after. With this insight, I was determined to find natural plant derived sources of collagen for my skincare line. There are actually a good amount of plants that help aid with collagen production. For the no. 1 face oil, I decided to use Marula, Moringa, Carrot Seed, and Neroli oil to support and stimulate collagen production.
Collagen has so many wonderful benefits. It promotes healthy, glowing skin because the essential protein creates elasticity in the skin. As you get older, collagen production starts to decline and your skin starts to suffer from this. You'll start to see fine lines, struggle with wrinkles and dryness.
Collagen also aids with muscle building and joint pain. Along with a healthy workout routine, it's advised to incorporate collagen into your diet. Eating fish, eggs, nuts, any vegetables rich in Vitamin C i.e. kale and spinach ( antioxidants in Vitamin C stabilize the enzymes that break down collagen) can be great essentials to your diet. Also, vegetables with Vitamin A such as carrots and sweet potatoes restore and regenerate damaged collagen.
If you're looking for a quicker fix, adding collagen peptides to your morning smoothie or coffee is a solid alternative. I've been adding peptides religiously to my morning drink and also post workout protein shake. In general, I've noticed more flexibility and less pain throughout my body. I also have less eczema flare ups and my hormonal acne has subdued.
Kudos to collagen!