The Science Behind Collagen Supplements: Supporting Skin, Hair, and Joint Health
Codeage
October 31, 2023 • 3 min read
Collagen, often termed the body’s structural cornerstone, is a fibrous protein critical to maintaining the integrity, elasticity, and overall health of skin, hair, joints, bones, connective tissues, and numerous other bodily structures. As we age, endogenous collagen production naturally declines—a process linked to visible signs of aging (e.g., reduced skin elasticity), joint discomfort, and diminished tissue function. Consequently, collagen supplements have emerged as a popular solution to support skin, hair, and joint health. Codeage offers a range of collagen products designed to complement daily routines and address these age-related needs.
Enhanced Skin Health
Collagen is a foundational component of skin, where it forms a fibrous network that supports structural integrity, tensile strength, elasticity, and moisture retention [1]. However, collagen synthesis decreases with age, compromising skin’s youthful appearance. While research on topical and oral collagen’s direct effects is ongoing, anecdotal and clinical evidence suggests that collagen supplementation may support skin health by replenishing this vital protein.
Codeage Multi Collagen Peptides Powder is an all-in-one blend featuring 5 collagen types sourced from grass-fed bovine, wild-caught fish, and pasture-raised chicken. This formula delivers 18 amino acids to complement daily nutrition and support skin’s structural needs.
Hair Health and Strength
Collagen supplementation may support hair health by providing key amino acids—glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline—that are integral to hair structure and strength. These amino acids are also essential for producing keratin, the protein that constitutes ~90% of hair [2].
Glycine: The smallest amino acid, glycine serves as a fundamental building block for collagen synthesis.
Proline: Critical for stabilizing collagen’s three-dimensional helix structure, proline underpins the formation and alignment of the hair shaft.
Hydroxyproline: A proline derivative produced during collagen biosynthesis, hydroxyproline reinforces collagen fibers via hydrogen bonding, enhancing hair’s structural integrity.
While clinical research on collagen’s direct effects on hair health remains evolving and individual-dependent, some users report improved hair texture and shine with regular collagen consumption—likely due to its role in supporting skin and connective tissue health.
For those seeking a plant-friendly option, Codeage Marine Collagen offers wild-caught marine collagen peptides (Types 1 & 3) with 18 essential amino acids. Sourced sustainably, this powder provides an eco-conscious way to meet collagen needs.
Support for Joint Mobility
Collagen is abundant in connective tissues such as cartilage, tendons, and ligaments—structures critical to joint health. Cartilage acts as a shock absorber between bones, reducing friction during movement; collagen within cartilage maintains its structural integrity and elasticity, which are vital for smooth joint function. Tendons (which connect muscles to bones) and ligaments (which link bones to other bones) rely on collagen for strength and flexibility, enabling coordinated movement and joint stability [3].
Codeage Multi Collagen Protein + Joints Blend is formulated for comprehensive joint support, combining collagen with evidence-backed ingredients: hyaluronic acid (for hydration), bromelain (for inflammation support), turmeric and ginger root extracts (antioxidant benefits), Boswellia serrata (joint comfort), and astaxanthin (oxidative stress protection). This all-in-one solution is ideal for athletes, fitness enthusiasts, or anyone looking to maintain an active lifestyle by supporting joint function.
References
Barati M, Jabbari M, Navekar R, Farahmand F, Zeinalian R, Salehi-Sahlabadi A, Abbaszadeh N, Mokari-Yamchi A, Davoodi SH. Collagen supplementation for skin health: A mechanistic systematic review. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2020 Nov;19(11):2820-2829. doi: 10.1111/jocd.13772.
Bragulla HH, Homberger DG. Structure and functions of keratin proteins in simple, stratified, keratinized and cornified epithelia. J Anat. 2009 Apr;214(4):516-59. doi: 10.1111/j.1469-7580.2009.01066.x. PMID: 19422428; PMCID: PMC2736122.
Martínez-Puig D, Costa-Larrión E, Rubio-Rodríguez N, Gálvez-Martín P. Collagen Supplementation for Joint Health: The Link between Composition and Scientific Knowledge. Nutrients. 2023 Mar 8;15(6):1332. doi: 10.3390/nu15061332. PMID: 36986062; PMCID: PMC10194762.
