My Journey to Healthier Skin: The Transformative Power of Collagen

As I recently entered the third year of my third decade, I’ve found myself reflecting on how much my priorities have evolved over the past five years, particularly since embarking on my holistic health and hormone healing journey. One of the most significant changes I’ve noticed is how I approach skincare. In my twenties, I struggled with severe cystic acne, a battle rooted in hormonal imbalances, environmental toxins, poor gut health, and low self-esteem. The painful cysts on my chin, jawline, and neck were a constant source of frustration and self-consciousness. I became obsessed with finding the elusive cure-all that would finally clear my skin.

About 4 years ago, at the end of the beginning of my healing journey

This struggle ultimately drove me to study holistic health and later, hormone health and fertility. My goal then, as it is now, was simple: to feel confident and comfortable without makeup. To achieve this, I needed to heal my gut, reduce inflammation and stress, discontinue my hormonal IUD, and find a balanced diet that supported my overall well-being. Once I accomplished these milestones, I focused on maintaining this state of health over the next few years.

Now, in my 30s, I’ve realized there’s one key element in my diet and routine that makes a noticeable difference in the appearance of my skin—collagen. Collagen is a protein that serves as one of the main building blocks for your bones, skin, hair, muscles, tendons, and ligaments. As dermatologist Dr. Ohara Aivaz explains,

“Collagen is what keeps our skin from sagging, giving us that plump, youthful look.”

Unfortunately, our bodies naturally produce less collagen as we age.

“Starting in our mid-20s, we slowly begin to lose collagen, For women, we can lose up to 30% of our collagen production in the first 5 years of menopause.”

Incorporating collagen into your diet can help counteract this decline, and there are multiple ways to do so. Here are my top three favorite methods for boosting collagen intake and supporting healthy, glowing skin.

1. Bone Broth: A Nutrient-Rich Elixir

Bone broth is made by slow-simmering animal bones to extract nutrients from the marrow and connective tissue. This process releases a rich blend of collagen, gelatin, and essential amino acids. The resulting broth, when cooled, should be thick and jiggly—a good indicator that you’re getting all the nutrients needed for joint health, gut health, and radiant skin.

I enjoy incorporating bone broth into my diet not only for its skin benefits but also because it’s a versatile ingredient. You can sip it on its own, use it as a base for soups, or even enjoy it with your morning scrambled eggs or smoothie for a protein boost. With nearly 10 grams of protein per cup, bone broth is an excellent way to start your day.

Making your own bone broth is also a great way to reduce food waste. After roasting a whole chicken, I use the leftover bones to make a delicious, nutrient-rich broth. It’s a simple, sustainable practice that supports my health goals. You can find my go-to recipe for homemade bone broth here.

2. Collagen Powders: Convenient and Effective

For busy mornings when I’m rushing to the Pilates studio, collagen powders are my go-to solution. They’re a quick and easy way to get the benefits of collagen without much prep work. I keep two different collagen powders in my pantry, both of which are flavorless and dissolve easily into any beverage.

One of my favorites is Great Lakes Wellness collagen peptides. I’ve been using this brand for almost as long as I’ve been studying health. It’s a reliable, high-quality source of collagen that I usually add to my morning decaf latte or olive leaf matcha latte. Each serving provides 18 grams of protein, supporting healthier skin, joint health, fuller hair, stronger nails, and better digestion.

Another option I love is Heart & Soil’s grass-fed whey protein powder with added colostrum and collagen. This powder also dissolves completely and is perfect for adding to my morning superfood smoothie. With 19 grams of protein per serving, it’s a fantastic way to fuel my body and support my skin from within.

3. The Beauty Fountain: A Unique, Skin-Transforming Drink

While I’ve tried various collagen beauty ingestibles over the years, none have impressed me as much as Oliveda’s I66 The Beauty Fountain. This potent drink combines Olive Tree Therapy, known as olive leaf extract, which is loaded with the powerful antioxidant hydroxytyrosol, and bioactive porcine collagen peptides sourced from Iberian pigs native to Oliveda’s olive groves in Spain. The result is a one-of-a-kind active ingredient complex that promotes gut health, reduces inflammation, and transforms wrinkles into a lasting glow.

The combination of hydroxytyrosol and collagen in The Beauty Fountain offers a double dose of benefits, enhancing skin elasticity and promoting a natural radiance. Since incorporating this drink into my routine, I’ve noticed a significant improvement in my skin’s texture and appearance. It’s now a staple in my beauty regimen, and I can’t recommend it enough for anyone looking to elevate their skincare routine from the inside out.

hot tip: if it’s sold out, click the tab on the right-hand side that says ‘notify me when available’ and you’ll get a text or email when it’s back in stock!

Finding What Works for You

If you’re new to collagen, I recommend starting with one method that fits your lifestyle and preferences. Whether you choose bone broth, collagen powders, or a specialty drink like The Beauty Fountain, the key is consistency. Make a commitment to incorporate collagen into your daily routine and stick with it for at least 30 days. You may notice improvements in as little as two weeks, but giving your body time to absorb and utilize the collagen will yield the best results.

Collagen has been a game-changer in my skincare journey, but it’s only one piece of the puzzle. Supporting your skin’s health requires a holistic approach that includes a balanced diet, stress management, and proper hydration. By nourishing your body from the inside out and finding a skincare routine that works for you, you can achieve that healthy, radiant glow you’ve always wanted.

The Bottom Line

My journey to healthier skin has taught me that true beauty comes from within. It’s about more than just the products you put on your skin; it’s about the nutrients you feed your body and the lifestyle choices you make every day. Incorporating collagen into my diet has been a powerful tool in achieving the clear, glowing skin I once thought was out of reach. Whether you’re battling acne, looking to improve skin elasticity, or simply want to maintain a youthful appearance, collagen could be the missing piece in your skincare routine.

If you’re ready to take the plunge, start with the form of collagen that resonates most with you and stick with it. Your skin, hair, nails, and overall health will thank you!

10/1/24 feeling more confident in my skin than ever!