Collagen has recently become a popular supplement for improving skin, hair, joint, and overall health. Yet, as its popularity has grown, so have myths and misconceptions.
Here, we debunk the most common myths about collagen supplements and explore the real science behind their impressive benefits.
MYTH 1: Look for Type I Collagen for beauty benefits and Type II Collagen for joint health
Collagen in its native form, known as unhydrolyzed or intact collagen, consists of large, complex molecules that are difficult for the body to break down and absorb.
Hydrolysed collagen, also known as collagen peptides and commonly used by most supplement brands, is broken down into smaller peptides through hydrolysis. These peptides are easier for the body to absorb and utilise, although they lose the specific type identifiers—such as Type I, Type II, or Type III—found in their original, full-length form. Therefore, hydrolysed collagen supplements generally enhance overall collagen availability in the body rather than performing specific functions like native, non-hydrolysed collagen types.
In simpler terms, it goes to where it’s needed the most.
MYTH 2: Collagen is a miracle cure
Supplements are not quick fixes, and results can vary in how quickly they appear. In some cases, your body may prioritise using collagen in essential areas rather than in your skin, hair, and nails initially. This prioritisation can delay visible improvements.
Consistency is the key.
MYTH 3: Collagen offers only skin benefits
Contrary to the common belief that collagen’s benefits are confined to skin beauty, collagen is a fundamental protein essential for the whole body. It significantly contributes to the structure of bones, tendons, ligaments, and cartilage, supporting overall connective tissue health.
For those with active lifestyles, the demand for collagen increases as muscles and joints require more for repair and maintenance. Supplementing with collagen, therefore, not only boosts skin health but also enhances joint functionality, muscle mass, bone strength, and supports broader aspects of health such as digestive wellness and chronic pain management.
MYTH 4: Collagen is for women only
Collagen has been mislabelled as a supplement primarily for women. This is scientifically inaccurate, men also benefit from its skin and anti-ageing properties, and the nutrients in functional foods are not gender-specific. Men possess the same connective tissues, joints, and skin, and are subject to similar ageing factors like UV exposure, smoking, diet, and pollution. Thus, collagen is equally essential for men.
MYTH 5: Collagen in topicals can penetrate the dermis layers
Due to the large size of collagen molecules, it is highly unlikely that collagen creams, when applied topically, will penetrate deeply into the dermal layers of the skin. The most effective methods for enhancing collagen in the skin are either through the supplementing active ingredients that stimulate collagen production or through treatments using lasers, radio-frequency devices, and other medical technologies.
MYTH 6: All collagen supplements are created equal
One question we often get asked is: Why is there so little collagen contained in a daily dose of INGENIOUS compared to other brands, and does it even work?
The simple answer is YES.
We do not need 5 to 10 grams (the amount used by other products) of collagen peptide. Thanks to our patented delivery mechanism, we ensure a consistent, repeatable delivery direct to the small intestine – the site of absorption. The presence of these collagen peptides then stimulates your cells to produce more collagen.
Plus with adding other hero ingredients such as Hyaluronic Acid and Astaxanthin, INGENIOUS capsules are so much more than a collagen supplement.