My biggest skin and hair secret is actually not something I apply to either my skin or hair. It’s a supplement that I take daily and I’ve seen huge improvements in my hair (including eyelashes) and skin. What is this secret supplement?
Collagen.
Any time anyone asks me about what they can do to improve their skin or hair, I always first direct them to a collagen supplement. It just seems to make more sense to start healing from the inside and then take care of any outer issues. Why collagen, though?
You may already know that the skin is the largest organ of the body. This organ is made up of layers containing blood vessels, glands, and lipids. The overall health of your skin is determined by three primary proteins - collagen, elastin, and keratin.
At birth your skin has a plentiful supply of these essential proteins, but general aging diminishes these supplies. Outside factors, such as sun exposure and pollutants, can also play a factor in decreasing these proteins. Collagen production begins to decline at age 20, and continues to slow at a rate averaging 1% per year. The result is thinner, more fragile skin over time, as well as dry skin and wrinkles.
Higher collagen levels help strengthen skin and benefit elasticity and hydration which can result in smoother, firmer skin. Collagen as a supplement helps stimulate the body to produce collagen on its own. It can also promote the production of other proteins that help structure skin, including elastin.
Collagen doesn’t just repair skin. It is necessary for healthy muscle function and important for bone and joint health. It is a major component of connective tissues, including tendons, ligaments, and muscles. Your heart and gut health will improve, too!
Your hair can also reap the benefits of a collagen supplement. Since collagen is rich in amino acids that your body uses to build keratin (the protein that makes up hair), it can increase hair growth. Collagen has antioxidant properties that can prevent hair damage by fighting free radicals that can harm hair follicles.
There are numerous ways to add collagen to your diet. Supplements are the easiest method. To maximize the benefits of collagen, do not take any pill forms of supplements (they do not dissolve quickly in your stomach, so you don’t intake the full dosage) and only purchase grass-fed, preferably organically sourced products for higher quality. If supplements aren’t for you, eating protein rich foods, like meat, dairy, fish, and bone broth, can also be a great source of collagen.
Try adding collagen and I know that you will love the benefits!
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