Marine Collagen: The Sea’s Secret to Youthful Skin and Flexible Joints

Collagen has become a buzzword in the wellness and beauty world – and for good reason! It’s the protein that keeps our skin plump and our joints cushioned. Lately, marine collagen (collagen sourced from fish) has been making waves as a supplement of choice for those seeking a more youthful appearance or relief from creaky joints. If you’re a bit sceptical about all the hype, or just curious what marine collagen could do for you, read on. We’ll dive into the facts behind this “fountain of youth” from the sea.

What is Marine Collagen?

Collagen is basically the scaffolding of your body - a structural protein that provides support to your skin, bones, muscles, and cartilage. Think of it as the glue that holds everything together. Our bodies naturally produce collagen, but by our mid-20s, that production starts to slow down. Over time, this leads to sagging skin, wrinkles, and weaker joints.

Marine collagen is simply collagen that’s derived from fish (typically the skin and scales). It’s rich in Type I collagen - the type most abundant in human skin. Why fish? Fish collagen peptides are often smaller in size, which some experts suggest might make them easier to absorb. Plus, using fish skin/bones for collagen turns would-be waste into a wellness product, which has eco-appeal. For those who don’t eat meat but do eat fish (pescatarians), marine collagen is a popular alternative to bovine (cow) or porcine (pig) collagen supplements.

Beauty from Within: Skin and Hair Benefits

The biggest acclaim for collagen supplements comes from the beauty arena. Advocates say it can lead to glowing skin, stronger nails, and luscious hair. It might sound too good to be true, but there is some scientific backing for skin benefits. A 2019 review of 11 studies (with over 800 participants) found that taking collagen significantly improved skin elasticity and hydration, and even boosted skin thickness, which can help reduce fine lines. In plain terms, participants’ skin became a bit more bouncy and moisturised - factors that keep us looking youthful.

Dermatologists explain that collagen peptides (the form found in supplements) signal our skin to produce more collagen, essentially reminding those sleepy fibroblast cells to get to work. Over time, this can mean firmer, smoother skin from the inside out. It’s not an overnight miracle - studies typically see results after 8-12 weeks of daily use - but it’s a noteworthy boost for those seeking anti-ageing strategies beyond creams and serums.

Many people also report stronger nails and healthier hair after a few months of collagen supplementation. While formal research here is limited, it makes sense anecdotally: hair and nails are also protein-based, and collagen provides some of the amino acid building blocks. If you suffer from brittle nails or thinning hair, collagen could be worth a try (along with a good multivitamin and diet, of course).

Move with Ease: Joint and Bone Support

It’s not just about vanity - collagen plays a key role in our joints, bones and connective tissues. Think of the cartilage in your joints as a firm jelly; collagen is a major ingredient in that jelly, keeping your knees, hips and other joints moving smoothly. As we age, collagen breakdown can contribute to joint stiffness or discomfort.

The bottom line: Marine collagen may help your joints feel better, especially if you have mild wear-and-tear. It’s not a cure-all or a replacement for medically prescribed treatments, but it could be a supportive player in your joint care routine. Given that collagen is a natural component of cartilage.

Did You Know?

Sales of collagen supplements jumped by roughly 30% from 2020 to 2022 alone. It seems more and more Brits are embracing the idea of “beauty from within” and joint health maintenance via collagen. So if you decide to hop on the marine collagen trend, you’re certainly not alone!

How Can Collagen Be Strengthened as a Supplement?

Collagen works even better when it’s combined with other nutrients that support joint structure, skin elasticity, and overall mobility. That’s why many advanced formulas pair marine collagen with other helpful compounds:

• MSM (Methylsulphonylmethane) – A natural sulphur compound, MSM may help support anti-inflammatory balance, reduce joint stiffness, and improve skin texture. Some small studies show potential benefits for exercise recovery too.
• Vitamin C – Essential for collagen synthesis, vitamin C helps the body use collagen more effectively. It also supports skin glow, bone strength, and immune health, making it an ideal partner in any collagen blend.

By combining marine collagen with these well-known nutrients, a supplement can provide more comprehensive support for both skin and joint health. You’re lucky here because Vitatek’s Advanced Marine Collagen already includes all of the above in one simple daily capsule, making it easier than ever to support your body from the inside out.

Bringing It All Together

Marine collagen isn’t just marketing hype - it has real potential benefits for skin health and joint support, backed by emerging research. It’s friendly to your body (being a natural protein you already produce) and easy to incorporate into a busy lifestyle.

Keep in mind that, as with any supplement, collagen works best alongside a balanced diet. It’s not a magic potion, but rather a boost to complement healthy eating. You’ll still want to eat protein-rich foods which provide the full spectrum of amino acids for your body’s repair work.

In a seashell (see what we did there?): marine collagen can be a fantastic addition to your wellness routine, helping you look and feel like the best version of you. Dive into the benefits and let your natural glow shine, from the inside out!

Disclaimer: If you have any concerns about allergies or specific ingredients, please consult a doctor or healthcare professional before taking any vitamins or supplements.

Sources:

• https://patient.info/news-and-features/can-collagen-in-beauty-products-really-prevent-skin-ageing
• https://versusarthritis.org/about-arthritis/complementary-and-alternative-treatments/types-of-complementary-treatments/collagen/#:~:text=,gelatin%2C%20HCP%2C%20type%20II%20collagen
• https://www.verifiedmarketresearch.com/product/uk-collagen-market/#:~:text=UK%20Collagen%20Market%20Size%20%26,Collagen%20has%20become%20a
• https://examine.com/supplements/msm/?show_conditions=true
• https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/vitamins-and-minerals/vitamin-c/