Is Collagen Supplementation Worth the Hype? Exploring Its Benefits for Skin Health
Collagen Supplements have gained popularity in recent years for its potential to improve skin health and reduce the signs of aging. But is collagen supplementation truly worth the hype?
At Subtle Enhancements, we're passionate about blending the latest scientific research with holistic health practices to bring you the best of both worlds. We know how important it is to stay informed and make educated choices about your skincare and our mission is to empower you with knowledge and provide personalized solutions that help you look and feel your absolute best.
Let's explore how collagen can be a game-changer for your aging skin.
What is Collagen?
Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body, making up about 75% of our skin’s dry weight. It provides structure, strength, and elasticity to our skin, as well as to our bones, muscles, tendons, and ligaments. As we age, our body's natural collagen production declines, especially after age 40, leading to wrinkles, sagging skin, and other signs of aging. There are at least 28 different types of collagen, but the most common and relevant to skin is Type I and Type III.
The Science Behind Collagen Supplementation
Numerous studies have investigated the potential benefits of collagen supplementation for skin health. Collagen supplements are often derived from ovine and marine sources. It's crucial to look for supplements that include Types I and III collagen. It's also important to take collagen in the form of collagen peptides or hydrolyzed collagen, as these forms are better absorbed by the body. Research has shown that these peptides can provide visible results in as little as 4-12 weeks.
While collagen supplements are a helpful tool in your skincare toolkit, they work best when combined with professional treatments that trigger your body’s own collagen production.
Benefits of Collagen Supplementation for Skin and Aging:
Improved Skin Elasticity: Collagen helps maintain the skin's firmness and elasticity, reducing the appearance of sagging and fine lines.
Enhanced Hydration: Collagen peptides can improve the skin’s moisture levels, leading to a more hydrated and plump appearance.
Wrinkle Reduction: By stimulating collagen synthesis, supplements can reduce the depth and appearance of wrinkles, promoting a smoother skin texture.
Support for Skin Structure: Collagen provides structural support to the skin, helping to maintain its overall integrity and resilience against aging factors.
The Science Behind Collagen-Stimulating Treatments
Supplements can support your skin from the inside but in-clinic collagen stimulation delivers visible, lasting results. Clinical studies show that treatments like microneedling and biostimulators such as Sculptra can significantly increase collagen production, improving elasticity and reducing signs of aging.
A 2018 study in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology showed that radiofrequency microneedling increased collagen and elastin density after just three sessions. Another study published in Dermatologic Surgery found that Sculptra stimulated new collagen growth over a 25-month period, offering gradual but sustained improvements.
Benefits of Collagen Stimulating Treatments for Skin and Aging:
Microneedling with Hyaluronic Acid: Our classic microneedling with hyaluronic acid helps stimulate your skin’s repair process to build new collagen and elastin. Choose our post-cooling treatment to reduce redness and speed up healing—especially great if you have sensitive skin.
Sylfirm X with Exosomes: A radiofrequency microneedling device that goes even deeper than classic microneedling, treating skin laxity, texture, and vascular pigmentation. When paired with exosomes, a cutting-edge regenerative serum rich in growth factors, it enhances skin healing, stimulates collagen, and reduces inflammation. This combo is especially effective for improving wrinkles, under-eye darkness, and early signs of aging, with faster recovery and amplified results.
Sculptra: A biostimulator injected into areas with volume loss (like the lower face or temples) to stimulate natural collagen production over time. Think of it as a collagen “banking” treatment that gets better with each session.
Collagen supplements are a great tool—but they work best as part of a bigger picture.
Combining in-clinic collagen-boosting treatments, a healthy lifestyle, and personalized skincare to keep your skin strong, supple, and radiant.
Ready to start your collagen journey?
Disclaimer: Any information is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be used in place of professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of a qualified health care practitioner with any questions or health concerns you may have or before starting any new treatments.
Hi, I’m Hilary!
The founder and lead nurse injector at Subtle Enhancements. Education is something that I’m very passionate about and this blog is an extension of that. Here you will be fully informed of the benefits and risks of each cosmetic procedure — no fads, no trends, just the scientific facts.
In the Greater Toronto Area or Durham Region? Consultations are free!
Let’s get social
