Improving Skin Elasticity & Hydration

Our skin is made up of multiple layers, with the dermis being the thickest. Type I collagen forms 80% of total collagen in skin – working to retain moisture and promote elasticity. It does this by providing structural support to fibroblast cells. In turn, elastin and hyaluronic acid levels are maintained. A clinical study from 2014 found that oral collagen peptides can help to stimulate Type I collagen synthesis and reduce wrinkles and sagging skin, as well as increase hydration.

Stronger Hair & Nails

Collagen breaks down into amino acids when ingested. This forms the building blocks for keratin, which is the main structural protein found in hair and nails. By supplying amino acids such as glycine and proline, daily marine collagen supplements, a 2017 study found a reduction in nail breakage and an increase in hair thickness and strength. 

Cartilage Support

It’s not just a beauty-boost either. Marine collagen helps to replenish the main structural protein for connective tissue matrix (Collagen types I & II), promoting strength and flexibility. According to this 2021 review, marine collagen peptides may also help to reduce joint inflammation by modulating inflammatory pathways. 

Bone Density

Because fish collagen and human collagen contain similar quantities of Type I collagen, collagen supplements can also assist in bone matrix formation. This may help to improve bone density as we age and natural collagen production decreases. 

Gut Lining Integrity

The link between gut health and our general wellbeing is becoming more apparent, and marine collagen may help with digestive health in a few ways. Amino acids such as glycine, proline and glutamine support the structure and repair of the intestinal barrier, potentially reducing issues like ‘leaky gut’ and boosting overall health. 

Digestive Comfort

Amino acid support for the intestinal lining may also aid digestion and efficient nutrient absorption. This means that your diet and its nutrients (a key component of health and beauty goals) is able to be absorbed effectively.

Amino Acid Profile

It’s well-known that protein has an integral role in muscle mass and recovery. Collagen supplies easily digestible protein to the body, which can support the overall daily intake. For active individuals this is really important, as supplements like fish collagen may aid in muscle recovery. 

Cardiovascular Health

Preliminary studies, like this one from 2022, suggest that collagen peptides like marine collagen peptides may help to reduce arterial stiffness by enhancing the elasticity of blood vessels. This can have potential positive impacts on our heart and vascular health (however research is still in its early stages).

Marine Collagen (Type I)

Collagen isn’t just one form. Different types exist in the body, and they can be derived from a range of animal products. Marine collagen is characterised by its abundance in Type I collagen – which is highly beneficial to the appearance and health of skin, hair and nails. It’s also one of the more bioavailable collagen forms, as its smaller peptide size helps it to absorb effectively.  

Bovine Collagen (Types I & III)

Bovine collagen contains Type I collagen just like marine collagen, but it also includes Type III. This is beneficial for joints and connective tissues, as well as gut health. Bovine collagen is sourced from cow hides, which makes it less sustainable than marine collagen. 

Chicken Collagen (Type II)

Chicken collagen is sourced from chicken cartilage. It’s rich in Type II collagen, making it a supportive option for joint and cartilage health. As it isn’t a source of Type I collagen, this form is less beneficial for skin and hair health.

Plant-Based Collagen Boosters

Alongside animal collagen products, some plant-based supplement options are available. It’s important to note that plant-based products are not an alternative for collagen. Instead, ingredients such as Vitamin C, zinc, copper and amino acids work to assist in the body’s natural production of collagen. 

Key Differences & Choosing the Right Type

Everyone’s health goals and needs are unique, so choosing the right collagen supplement for you will depend on a few factors. Different collagen sources have different levels of bioavailability, amino acid profiles and collagen types, making them useful for different health goals. Always consider your lifestyle and preferences to ensure that your routine is working for you. 

1. Hydrolysed Marine Collagen Peptides

You may have seen the term ‘hydrolysis’ being used when talking about marine collagen. This refers to the process that marine collagen (and other collagen types) go through to become a viable supplement ingredient. As it stands, the collagen protein is too large to be absorbed into the body. Hydrolysing marine collagen breaks it down into smaller ‘peptides’, which can be absorbed more easily for more effective results. Vida Glow uses only highly beneficial hydrolysed marine collagen peptides in its products. 

2. Sustainable & Ethical Sourcing

Wondering about the difference between farmed fish collagen and wild caught marine collagen? To honour our commitment to the planet, it was essential that we source marine collagen only from places that don’t place pressure on one species. For that reason, we use responsibly farmed fish and specifically upcycled by-products from existing fisheries. Our products proudly bare the MSC (Marine Stewardship Council) and Friend of the Sea Certification. Find out more about our sustainability efforts including sourcing, quality and packaging.   

3. Added Ingredients

Vitamin C (for collagen synthesis).

Your best skin and hair days are worth a little extra effort. Our formulas not only deliver premium-grade marine collagen, but are also infused with supportive and beneficial ingredients like Vitamin C. A sought-after skincare ingredient, vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps to address oxidative stress such as UV in skin. It’s also a co-factor of amino acids, which are critical in the creation of collagen. 

Hyaluronic Acid, Biotin (for synergistic effects).

To promote hydration and synergy, our fish collagen supplements are infused with hyaluronic acid and biotin (vitamin B7). Biotin works alongside collagen to promote keratin production and healthier hair, while hyaluronic acid is a naturally occuring moisturising property found in skin. These ingredients work in tandem with collagen for bouncier complexions and thicker hair. 

4. Form Factor

No one beauty routine looks the same. To suit your lifestyle and preferences, our marine collagen supplements are available in different forms – including collagen powder, liquid collagen and capsules. Each provides a convenient and highly absorbent formula to fit in with your daily schedule. 

5. Brand Reputation & Reviews

We take health goals seriously. Each of our targeted formulas are backed up by consumer trials, advanced clinical tools and research. To ensure that our marine collagen supplements meet the claims made and deliver the results you deserve, we go through thorough testing (as with this 12-week consumer trial). But don’t take our word for it. Read the reviews from customers who have purchased Vida Glow products!

Recommended Daily Dosage

Recommended marine collagen depends on the individual needs and age group. However, general guidelines recommend 5-10g for general health and up to 15-20g to address specific concerns. For more information, read our guide on how much collagen to take for your goals. 

Best Time to Take It

Marine collagen supplements are a convenient and flexible way to keep your intake of collagen up. In terms of how to take fish collagen supplements for maximum effect, you can choose to do so with food or before eating. The key is consistency – the best results come from daily supplementation. 

Ways to Incorporate It

How do you take your marine collagen? Choose to blend our powder into your morning smoothie or coffee, or add a flavoured sachet to water. Our collagen supplements can even be added to food. If you’d like to take marine collagen supplements as part of a meal, why not try our simple and healthy collagen oatmeal recipe?

1. Add ½ cup rolled oats, milk or water and a pinch of salt to a pot
2. Bring to a simmer and cook until creamy
3. Remove from heat and stir in marine collagen powder
4. Add whatever extras you’d like, such as bananas, cinnamon powder, nuts and berries

Common, Mild Side Effects

Health products can affect us differently, including sometimes causing mild side effects. For marine collagen this may look like digestive upsets such as bloating and mild nausea. Some people also find the taste and odour of collagen supplements unpleasant. To mitigate this, you can mix your collagen powder into a preferred flavoured drink or opt for flavoured collagen sachets.  

Allergy Concerns

Vida glow supplements use fish collagen for its premium effectiveness and sustainability. For those with fish or seafood allergies however, this may not be suitable. If you have concerns around allergies or potential reactions, consult your medical professional before using marine collagen products. 

Medication Interactions

Wondering about how marine collagen may affect any other medications you’re currently taking? It’s always recommended to consult your doctor or medical professional about queries or concerns for medication interactions before trying a new product. 

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

If you’re currently pregnant or breastfeeding, you may have noticed changes to your skin and hair. All these internal shifts to support new life can disrupt or affect your body’s balance and result in confusing and sometimes frustrating breakouts or hair shedding. Currently there has been no clinical testing of marine collagen on pregnant women and clinical evidence is lacking around breastfeeding. There is no substantiated evidence to suggest that marine collagen may be harmful to either breastfeeding mums or their babies, but it is recommended to seek the advice of your healthcare practitioner. Learn more by reading our article on using collagen during pregnancy and postpartum. 

Contaminants (Heavy Metals)

Both farmed fish collagen and wild caught marine collagen comes from fish scales and skin. These properties can contain heavy metals if sourcing and processing is not heavily controlled. Because of this, it’s integral that you only choose fish collagen that has been third-party tested and sustainably harvested, such as Vida Glow products.