Have you been noticing more fine lines lately? Or maybe your skin isn’t as firm and bouncy as it used to be? This is because our skin loses collagen naturally as we grow older, and that can result in dullness, dryness, and sagging. That's where liquid collagen comes in. It's become a staple for many who want to improve their skin from the inside out. But what does it do? And is it worth the hype? Let’s break it down.
What Is Collagen and Why Does It Matter?
Collagen is a protein your body naturally produces. It keeps your skin firm, elastic, and bouncy, basically, your internal scaffolding. Collagen production starts to dip in your mid-20s and declines as you age. Add stress, sun exposure, and poor diet into the mix, and your skin’s natural collagen bank can start depleting faster.
What Is Liquid Collagen?
Liquid collagen is usually hydrolysed collagen, or collagen peptides, dissolved in a liquid carrier, like a juice shot or a beauty beverage. Hydrolysing the collagen breaks it into smaller pieces so your body can absorb and use it more easily.
Some contain water already, so you just drink them, others are high-concentration doses that you add to water. They are frequently mixed with additional ingredients, such as vitamin C (to stimulate collagen production), hyaluronic acid (to provide moisture), or biotin (for nails and hair health).
Also Read: Benefits Of Adding Collagen To Your Morning Coffee! Dermat Shares
Skincare Benefits of Liquid Collagen
1. Improved Skin Elasticity and Firmness
Collagen supplementation can help improve skin elasticity, reducing sagging and giving your skin a firmer appearance. A systematic review published in the American Journal of Medicine analysed 23 randomised controlled trials and found that collagen supplements significantly improved skin elasticity and reduced wrinkles.
2. Smoother, More Hydrated Skin
Collagen acts like a sponge and absorbs water. Supplements support your skin's water barrier, so your skin will become smoother and more supple if you struggle with dryness or wrinkles. One study on Nutrients showed that daily collagen supplements enhanced skin hydration, elasticity, and density.
3. Fewer Fine Lines and Wrinkles
Daily use (8–12 weeks) has been linked with decreasing the depth of fine lines and wrinkles. It is due to collagen's ability to offer structural support internally in the dermis. According to the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, patients who consumed collagen peptides showed a significant reduction in wrinkle volume and depth in six weeks.
4. Support for Hair and Nails
While it's primarily marketed for the skin, users report healthier, shinier hair and stronger nails after regularly using collagen. In a study published in J Drugs Dermatol, researchers discovered that daily consumption of bioactive collagen peptides enhanced nail growth and decreased brittleness.
Also Read: 7 Reasons Why You Should Start Taking Collagen Supplements Today
How to Use Liquid Collagen
Most brands recommend a daily dose, either as a shot, a drink mix or even drops you can add to your morning smoothie. The key here is consistency. Think of it like a daily ritual, not a miracle serum. Collagen acts slowly and quietly, often taking 6–12 weeks to become noticeable.
Also, pay attention to what type of collagen you’re taking. Type I is found most in the skin, so try to find that specifically on the label.
Are There Any Side Effects?
- Allergies: Some collagen is sourced from fish (marine collagen), eggs, or bovine (cow), so always check the label if you have allergies.
- Taste: If flavour matters to you, read reviews or opt for flavoured versions.
- Digestive issues: A small number of people report mild bloating or an upset stomach, especially in the beginning.
As with everything, consult your doctor before taking any new supplement, particularly if you're pregnant, breastfeeding, or have a medical condition.
Is It Worth the Hype?
This is up to your expectations. Liquid collagen will not reverse the clock in one night, but for some, it's a comfortable, non-surgical means of promoting skin health internally. When paired with a balanced diet, water intake, sun protection, and good skincare habits, it can be an excellent addition to your glow-up arsenal.
[Disclaimer: This article contains information for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your professional if you are dealing with any health issue to avoid complications.]