In our latest post, we introduced collagen and its vital role in cellular processes such as tissue repair, immune response and cellular communication.
Long touted by skin doctors and celebrities as one of the most effective ingredients in slowing down signs of ageing and building skin elasticity, collagen is the most abundant protein found in the human body and has 28 types.
The four most common types of collagen are: Type I, which is found in all connective tissue; Type ll, found in joints and intervertebral discs; Type lll, which is the main component of reticular fibers and are found in your skin and blood vessels; as well as Type lV, a component of the kidneys, inner ear and eye lens.
“Type I collagen is the most abundant and makes up to 90 per cent of the collagen in our body,” says Dr Mark Lim, member of Society of Men’s Health Singapore.
Our bodies naturally produce collagen through the foods we consume. We can obtain it through dietary sources that are high in amino acids for collagen synthesis.
There are a variety of collagen-rich foods that we can consume to boost collagen production for better skin. As collagen is found in the connective tissues of animals, these foods mainly include bone broth, made of bones and connective tissue, and high-protein animal sources such as poultry, fish, beans and eggs.
“You can get collagen from natural sources like fish and red meat like beef. If you see Chinese grandparents boiling animal bones and cartilage to make soup, it’s because the connective tissues are rich in collagen,” says Dr Magdalene Liau, an aesthetic doctor.
“Eating high-protein foods may also help with collagen production because they contain the amino acids that make collagen,” she adds.
In addition to amino acids, our body needs other dietary components for collagen production and maintenance.
Vitamin C plays a major role in the production of pro-collagen, so having low or deficient levels of Vitamin C can lead to impaired collagen production. Therefore, consuming plenty of Vitamin C-rich foods like oranges, grapefruit, lemons, as well as peppers, greens, and berries can help support healthy collagen production.
If you can’t consume these foods on a daily basis, you can also incorporate collagen supplements into your diet. Collagen supplements can be found in powder, capsule, and liquid form.
Dr Wong Chu Hui, an aesthetic doctor, says: “Most people invest in the outer layer of the skin which is important. However, the inner layer is just important and that is contributed by a good diet and supplements.”
“As we age, we lose one per cent of collagen each year, so it is crucial that we find ways to replenish that collagen,” she adds.
Some studies have shown that taking collagen supplements over a long period can improve skin elasticity, reduce signs of ageing and help with any joint, back or knee pains.
Here are three collagen drinks we recommend for users of different groups and with different needs:
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- Collagen Diamond
Infused with 5,300mg of collagen peptide, Kinohimitsu Collagen Diamond 5300 Drink is formulated to help mature skin restore its youthfulness and radiance.
Collagen peptides, which are small pieces of protein from animal collagen and have a shorter molecular structure, makes it more easily absorbed by the skin compared to our skin’s natural collagen.
By actively boosting collagen synthesis and repairing damaged collagen fibres, Kinohimitsu Collagen Diamond 5300 Drink reduces signs of ageing such as fine lines, wrinkles and dryness.
The product also claims to help with firming the skin for a more lifted look, tightening pores, and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
The collagen drink is suitable for adults aged 30 and above, as well as night owlers looking to drink their way into a more visibly lifted, plumper-looking skin.
“What you put in your body definitely shows on the skin. Have a balanced diet rich in whole foods,” says Dr Magdalene Liau. “Certain skin supplements can also be helpful in achieving a more radiant complexion.”
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- Collagen Stem Cell
Made with patented Snow Lotus Stem Cell, Kinohimitsu Stem Cell Drink is designed to help those who want to reduce premature skin ageing while rejuvenating the cells in their bodies.
The collagen drink contains 5,300mg of collagen derived from fish, along with another collagen-rich ingredient, chicken cartilage, and other accompanying ingredients like apple juice and mint leaf for flavour enhancements.
“Ideally, taking doses of 5,000 to 6,000mg of collagen will do good for the skin as consuming anything more may result in your body converting them into fats,” says Dr Wong.
Being a liquid formula, the drink allows for immediate absorption by the body and is catered for those aged 35 and above who suffer from wrinkled, dull and sagging skin, as well as those with poor metabolism and experiences a slow healing process in their skin.
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- Collagen Men
Infused with 5,300mg of collagen peptide and a blend of moisturising ingredients, Kinohimitsu Collagen Men Drink aids in plumping up the skin, smoothening fine lines, regulating sebum secretion, healing facial scars and restoring youthful vitality to the skin.
The collagen drink serves as a functional, quick-and-easy fix specifically designed for men to combat against skin problems such as oiliness, dehydrated skin, acne and blemishes, and wrinkles.
With a high concentration in collagen peptide and other ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, cactus extract and aloe vera, all of which are scientifically proven to contain moisturising properties, the collagen-infused drink will help those suffering from oily and blemish-prone skin to achieve a clearer, smoother skin.
Kinohimitsu Collagen Men Drink is mainly catered for men aged 25 and above whom are constantly exposed to UV rays, have oily skin and enlarge pores, as well as coffee and alcoholic beverage drinkers.
