A REAL ANTI-WRINKLE CREAM TO SWALLOW!
It is now impossible for us to talk to you about anti-aging care without advising you to supplement with collagen.
Collagen isn't a passing beauty trend: it's a groundbreaking breakthrough in anti-aging science, backed by dozens of rigorous clinical studies. The results are spectacular and measurable: a 35% reduction in wrinkles, a 23% increase in elasticity, and a 25% improvement in firmness... in just 12 weeks.
Collagen is the most important structural protein in our body and can make up as much as 80% of our skin. It's what gives us plump, smooth, and bouncy skin. Unfortunately, starting at age 25, we lose 1-1.5% of our collagen per year. By age 40, you've lost 25% of your collagen. By age 60, 50%.
Visible consequences: When collagen levels decline with age or due to environmental stressors, the skin can become dehydrated and lose its elasticity, leading to the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, sagging of the facial contour and loss of radiance.
The good news: Boosting our collagen levels can delay this natural depletion and give us plumper, smoother skin. Prevention is key when it comes to skin aging, so collagen supplementation is one of the best pieces of advice we can give you!
In this comprehensive and scientifically proven guide, discover:
- The science of collagen (absorption, mechanism)
- Clinical studies that prove its effectiveness
- Marine vs. bovine collagen: which to choose
- The different types (I, II, III, IV)
- Optimal dosage according to your age
- Expected results (numerical timeline)
- Our selection of the best products
Ready to transform your skin with science? Follow the guide!
THE SCIENCE OF COLLAGEN
WHAT IS COLLAGEN?
Collagen acts like glue, maintaining the skin's firmness and elasticity. This is why it plays a role in reducing wrinkles and fine lines and combating sagging skin. It is also essential for strong, healthy nails and shiny hair. In terms of overall health, it soothes intestinal inflammation and strengthens joints.
Collagen is our number one ally in the fight against skin aging. Unfortunately, collagen production begins to decline between the ages of 20 and 25, and the body's collagen content, especially in the skin, decreases by 1.5% per year. While collagen levels are still at 100% at age 20, they decrease by 1.5% annually.
The degradation of collagen levels is therefore due to age but also to external factors such as UV rays, stress, tobacco, sugar, pollution… This is why we advise you to supplement with collagen every day to counteract the effects of its degradation on our skin.
THE DIFFERENT SOURCES OF COLLAGEN
The world of collagen can seem complex at first glance. Between marine collagen, bovine collagen, and plant-based alternatives, how do you find your way? Each source has its own specific characteristics, advantages, and limitations. Let's explore these different options together to help you make the choice best suited to your needs and values.
BOVIN COLLAGEN
Bovine collagen comes from the hides, bones, and cartilage of farm-raised cows. Historically, it was the first form of collagen used in supplementation, and it remains widely available on the market due to its more affordable production cost.
What you need to know about bovine collagen: Its composition focuses primarily on types I and III, two forms of collagen particularly beneficial for skin, hair, and nails. Its main advantage lies in its price: it is generally 20 to 40% cheaper than marine collagen, making it accessible to a wider range of people.
In terms of efficacy, bovine collagen has a slightly higher molecular weight than its marine counterpart, resulting in less optimal absorption by the body. Its lower bioavailability means that results may take longer to appear.
Bovine Collagen Powder - KIKI HEALTH
Bovine Collagen Capsules - KIKI HEALTH
MARINE COLLAGEN
Marine collagen represents the best available in terms of supplementation. Derived from the scales of fish such as cod, pollock, haddock, or salmon, it offers significantly greater effectiveness than bovine collagen.
Why marine collagen stands out: The major difference lies in its exceptional bioavailability. Marine collagen is absorbed 1.5 times better than bovine collagen. This superiority is explained by its naturally lower molecular weight, which facilitates its passage through the intestinal wall and its distribution in the dermis.
In practical terms, this translates into faster, visible results. While bovine collagen starts to show its effects after 6 to 8 weeks, marine collagen delivers initial results in just 3 to 4 weeks.
Marine collagen also has a richer composition. Primarily composed of type I (the skin's primary collagen), premium brands may also contain types II, III, and even IV. It is particularly concentrated in glycine and proline, two essential amino acids for skin structure and elasticity.
The crucial importance of origin: wild vs. farmed
Not all marine collagens are created equal. The origin of the fish makes a considerable difference to the quality of the final product. Here, we have made the exclusive choice of collagen sourced from wild-caught fish.
Wild fish live in their natural environment, generally in deep, cold waters. Their natural diet and active lifestyle produce denser, higher-quality collagen. Crucially, they are not exposed to antibiotics or growth hormones, and they do not consume artificial feed. This purity is reflected in the final product you eat.
Conversely, farmed fish live in controlled environments where the use of antibiotics may be necessary. Their standardized diet is less nutritious than that of wild fish, which impacts collagen quality. The risks of contamination, although controlled, remain higher than those of wild fish.
Using marine collagen from wild fish also represents a responsible environmental approach. The scales used are a by-product of sustainable fishing; otherwise, they would be discarded. By utilizing them, we contribute to a circular economy while reducing waste.
The tangible benefits of marine collagen
Beyond its scientific aspects, marine collagen offers very tangible benefits in your daily life. Its digestive tolerance is excellent: unlike bovine collagen, which can occasionally cause bloating, marine collagen is generally perfectly tolerated, even by sensitive stomachs.
The results are not only faster but also more pronounced. Clinical studies consistently show superior improvements with marine collagen compared to bovine collagen, whether in wrinkle reduction, improved elasticity, or increased hydration.
Limits to be aware of
Transparency is important: marine collagen is indeed more expensive than bovine collagen, generally 20 to 50% more. This difference is due to the superior quality of the raw material and the more complex extraction processes.
PLANT-BASED COLLAGEN BOOSTERS
Let's begin with a crucial clarification: there is no such thing as truly plant-based collagen. Collagen is by nature an animal protein, which is not found in plants, fungi, or any other non-animal organism. This distinction is important because the marketing surrounding "vegan collagen" can sometimes be misleading.
What is commonly called "collagen booster" or "plant-based collagen" actually refers to blends of plants, vitamins, minerals, and superfoods that stimulate your body's natural collagen production. Rather than providing collagen directly, these formulas supply all the necessary elements for your body to produce its own collagen.
The mechanism of action: to stimulate endogenous production
The approach is fundamentally different from animal collagen. Your body naturally produces collagen throughout your life (although this production decreases with age). To make this collagen, it needs specific cofactors, precursor amino acids, and optimal conditions. This is exactly what collagen boosters provide.
Collagen synthesis cofactors are the elements without which your body simply cannot produce collagen. Vitamin C is the most crucial: without it, collagen synthesis is impossible.
Anima Mundi stands out with a truly different approach. This brand doesn't just mix a few basic vitamins and plants: it formulates complex synergies of rare superfoods, powerful adaptogens, and traditional medicinal plants.
Their formulas are certified organic, and many of their ingredients come from wild plants or regenerative agriculture. The dosages aren't symbolic but genuinely effective, which makes all the difference. Each formula is designed not only to stimulate collagen but also to provide holistic benefits to your overall health and well-being.
CHOOSE HYDROLYZED COLLAGEN PEPTIDES
Collagen components are too large to be efficiently absorbed by the body, which is why it is broken down into hydrolysate. By reducing the molecular weight of collagen and transforming it into collagen peptides with smaller particles, it becomes more easily absorbed and acts more effectively on the skin. Studies show that 90% of hydrolyzed collagen is absorbed by the skin.
Due to its smaller molecular size, hydrolyzed marine collagen is 1.5 times more readily absorbed than bovine collagen. Furthermore, it is more bioavailable. Higher bioavailability means it can be absorbed more quickly by the body, resulting in faster results.
The molecular weight of collagen hydrolysate is measured in daltons. Unhydrolyzed collagen has a dalton weight of approximately 300,000, which is very significant. In our supplements, the collagen is hydrolyzed to a density between 500 and 2000 daltons.
In hydrolyzed form, collagen is directly usable by your body. A study on the absorption and effectiveness of hydrolyzed collagen confirms that it is absorbed in the small intestine and into the bloodstream as peptides and free amino acids and distributed in the dermis for a period of up to 14 days.
Step 1 - Ingestion:
You are consuming hydrolyzed collagen peptides (molecular weight 500-2000 daltons)
Step 2 - Intestinal absorption:
A study on the absorption and efficacy of hydrolyzed collagen confirms that it is absorbed in the small intestine as peptides and free amino acids. Absorption rate: up to 90%.
Step 3 - Blood circulation:
The peptides enter the bloodstream and are transported throughout the body.
Step 4 - Distribution in the dermis:
The peptides are distributed in the dermis (deep layer of the skin) for a period of up to 14 days. This is where they exert their action.
Step 5 - Stimulation of fibroblasts:
Collagen peptides act as signals for fibroblasts (cells that produce collagen). They tell them to produce more of:
- Collagen (structure)
- Elastin (elasticity)
- Hyaluronic acid (hydration)
Final result:
Hydrolyzed collagen has been proven to provide amino acids for the formation of collagen and elastin fibers AND stimulates the production of new endogenous collagen (your own collagen).
THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF COLLAGEN
There are 28 types of collagen. But types I, II and III make up 90% of the collagen found in our body.
Another difference is that if you use bovine collagen, you are often limited to type I and type III collagen. Marine collagen can contain types I, II, and III. This is the case with VIDA GLOW collagen . Holi (Mane) - AGENT NATEUR also contains type IV.
TYPE 1
The most abundant source of collagen found in the human body, it is best known for maintaining healthy hair, skin, and bones. It helps the skin retain its elasticity.
TYPE 2
Most important for joint health because it builds cartilage.
TYPE 3
It works in synergy with type 1 to build the skin, vessel walls, and fibers of almost all body tissues.
TYPE 4
It focuses on building the basement membrane of our cells, which separates the epidermis from the dermis. It plays a role in skin tone.
HOW TO TAKE YOUR COLLAGEN
WHEN, HOW MUCH AND AT WHAT AGE SHOULD I TAKE COLLAGEN?
WHEN ?
No matter what time of day you choose to take your collagen, its effectiveness will not be affected. The key is consistency; take it at a time that suits you best and when you are sure you won't forget. Consistency is the key to achieving results. If you have trouble falling asleep, since collagen boosts melatonin production, it is advisable to take it in the evening.
HOW LONG ?
Once you stop taking it, collagen production will slow down to return to its natural rhythm. Therefore, it's not a treatment course but a daily intake.
WHAT DOSE?
We recommend between 3000mg and 10000mg depending on your age. However, the amount of collagen you take daily can also vary depending on your height, weight, and lifestyle. There's no point in taking more than 10g of collagen, as this is the maximum dose the body can absorb each day. If you exceed this dose, the absorption rate will decrease, and your collagen will be less effective.
We recommend between 3000mg and 10000mg depending on your age. However, the amount of collagen you take daily can also vary depending on your height, weight, and goals. Generally, we recommend:
BETWEEN 25 AND 35 YEARS OLD > 3000mg
Equivalence
• 1 dose of The Collagen Elixir - WELLECO
• 1 sachet of Natural Marine Collagen - VIDA GLOW
• 5 Marine Collagen Capsules - Capsules - KIKI HEALTH
• 1 teaspoon Marine Collagen Powder - KIKI HEALTH
BETWEEN 35 AND 45 YEARS OLD > 6000mg
Equivalence
• 1 dose of Collagen Liquid Advance - VIDA GLOW
• 2 sachets of Natural Marine Collagen - VIDA GLOW
• 10 Marine Collagen Capsules - KIKI HEALTH
• 2 teaspoons of Marine Collagen Powder - KIKI HEALTH
FROM AGE 45 > 10000mg
Equivalence
• 1 dose of Holi (Mane) - NATURAL AGENT
• 3 sachets of Natural Marine Collagen - VIDA GLOW
• 15 Marine Collagen Capsules - Capsules - KIKI HEALTH
• 3 teaspoons of Marine Collagen Powder - KIKI HEALTH
Collagen in capsules, liquid or powder?
You need to consider your lifestyle and preferences because the best way to take it is, once again, continuously and regularly. The biggest difference will be in the dosage.
CAPSULES
Collagen capsules contain small amounts of collagen. You need to take up to 15 capsules to get the maximum dose of 10g. They are best suited for people who prefer this method of intake and who only need a small amount of collagen, depending on their age.
- KIKI HEALTH Marine Collagen Beauty Blend in Capsules
- Marine Collagen Capsules - KIKI HEALTH
- Pro Collagen + - VIDA GLOW
POWDER
Collagen powder is an excellent option if you prefer a tasteless supplement that can be easily mixed into any beverage, whether it's your coffee, a smoothie, or a simple glass of water. It offers complete flexibility. It's easy to take the maximum amount of 10g, which is equivalent to one tablespoon of powder.
- KIKI HEALTH Marine Collagen Powder Beauty Blend
- Marine Collagen Powder - KIKI HEALTH
- The Collagen Elixir - WELLECO
- Holi (Mane) - NATIONAL AGENT
- Original Natural Marine Collagen - VIDA GLOW
LIQUID
Liquid collagen is ideal for on-the-go use. Its liquid form has the same effectiveness as the powdered supplement, but in a convenient sachet you can keep in your purse. It's an easy way to incorporate collagen into your routine without having to mix or measure it. They usually taste great too.
SCIENTIFICALLY PROVEN
CLINICAL STUDIES
Numerous scientific studies have demonstrated the benefits of hydrolyzed collagen supplementation in improving the signs of skin aging. It is possible to reverse the effects of time and prolong youthful skin because it has been proven to provide amino acids for the formation of collagen and elastin fibers and to stimulate the production of new collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid.
The study conducted by doctoral student Sara Sibilla proved that collagen taken as a supplement improves skin elasticity and hydration.
The most significant study is the one published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology by Wiley Periodicals LLC, which tested the effectiveness of taking hydrolyzed marine collagen in women between 45 and 60 years old for 12 weeks. Half of the group took marine collagen supplements, and the other half took a placebo.
Participants supplemented with hydrolyzed marine collagen experienced the following improvements compared to the placebo group:
Wrinkles:
- 35% reduction in wrinkles (measured per standardized unit)
Elasticity:
- Increase of 23%
Hydration:
- 14% increase
Glow :
- 22% improvement
Firmness:
- 25% increase
According to these results, ingesting hydrolyzed collagen for 90 days clearly demonstrates its effectiveness in reducing the effects of skin aging, as it reduces wrinkles and improves skin elasticity and hydration.
Results appear between 3 days and 4 weeks after starting treatment and increase over time. Regularly consuming collagen is key to achieving significant and lasting results.
Other benefits proven by studies:
General skin health:
Not only can collagen help fight aging, but scientific studies also show that it can contribute to:
- Acne (reduction of inflammation, healing)
- Eczema (skin barrier repair)
- Accelerated healing
Joints:
- Reduction of joint pain
- Improved mobility
Hair and nails:
- Stronger and shinier hair
- Stronger nails
TIMELINE OF PROVEN RESULTS
First signs (3 days - 4 weeks):
Results appear between 3 days and 4 weeks after the start of treatment.
- Improved hydration
- Stronger hair and nails
Significant results (8-12 weeks):
- Visible reduction of wrinkles
- Improved elasticity
- Increased firmness
- Radiant complexion
Cumulative results (3-6 months+):
The results multiply over time. Regularly consuming collagen is key to achieving significant and lasting results.


