The quest for youthful skin has seen masses turn to collagen supplements, but not all collagen sources are created equal.
While food sources like bone broth, chicken skin, and fish skin provide raw collagen, relying on these alone may come with limitations.
Natural sources offer inconsistent results, according to Goldman Laboratories founder Jordi Mascio, who explains that effectiveness varies based on extraction methods and individual gut health.
He noted that traditional hydrolysed collagen supplements require a substantial daily intake to be effective. Most bovine and marine collagen products need five to 10 grams per day to deliver noticeable skin benefits.
The science behind eggshell collagen’s efficiency lies in its non-denatured structure
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According to Jordi, this stands in stark contrast to eggshell collagen, which offers greater efficiency at smaller doses.
“Eggshell collagen is more efficient in smaller doses compared to hydrolysed collagen, which requires much higher intake to see similar results,” Jordi told GB News.
The science behind eggshell collagen’s efficiency lies in its bioactive, non-denatured structure, which helps maintain the supplement’s natural molecular integrity.
This unique structure allows for faster absorption and utilisation by the body and offers wide-ranging benefits that may include improved joint flexibility.
A 2022 study published in Nutrients suggested that collagen derived from eggshells could improve joint mobility and strength.
Earlier research, published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology in 2020, found that eggshell membrane has a positive impact on hair thickness, reduces hair breakage, and improves hair growth when supplemented orally.
Significant improvements in facial skin appearance and skin tone were also reported.
These effects are largely attributed to the built-in elastin and glycosaminoglycans present in eggshells, which are key for skin hydration.
Jordi explained that the “naturally occurring compounds work synergistically with collagen to improve overall skin health”.
As a result, users can expect faster and more visible improvements compared to relying solely on dietary collagen, though lifestyle interventions shouldn't be overlooked.
Jordi continued: “Maintaining youthful skin goes beyond collagen supplementation. A holistic approach combining diet, lifestyle, and advanced skin treatments can maximise skin health, slow ageing, and enhance results.”
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Maintaining youthful skin requires various lifestyle changes
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High sugar intake, he warned, can reduce the effectiveness of supplementation due to a process called glycation, which damages collagen and elastin, promoting wrinkles and sagging.
“Prioritise low-glycaemic, whole foods to keep skin firm and radiant,” Jordi advised. He also noted that maintaining healthy hormone levels is equally important.
“Oestrogen [also] plays a crucial role in skin thickness, hydration, and elasticity. Low oestrogen leads to dryness and wrinkles.”
Phytoestrogens in flaxseeds, soy, and pomegranates can all help optimise hormones.
