In the ever-evolving world of wellness, supplement trends frequently emerge, each promising to enhance our skin, reduce wrinkles, and deliver a radiant, healthy glow. However, many of these trends quickly fade away. Collagen, initially considered one of those fleeting fads, has garnered significant attention and raised intriguing questions about its actual effectiveness.
Life Time generously provided samples of the LTH Rewind Collagen Elixir for my assessment.
Over the past year, collagen’s popularity has surged, prompting discussions among dermatologists about its efficacy. It seems that this supplement is no longer exclusive to social media influencers—it’s being embraced across the board, from medical practices to reputable health sites. This persistence leads to a crucial inquiry: Is collagen truly beneficial?
Motivated by curiosity, I set out to explore this for myself.
For 90 days, I incorporated a daily liquid collagen supplement into my routine, bypassing powders since I didn’t want to mix anything into my early morning coffee. I tried the LTH Rewind Collagen Elixir, a product from Life Time, a brand expanding its offerings into supplements, to determine if it would cause any changes in my skin, hair, or overall health.
Here’s what I experienced.
Does taking collagen really work?
The LTH Rewind Collagen Elixir combines hydrolyzed peptides with hyaluronic acid, Lutemax Skinglo®, and vitamin C to support skin and nail health.
(Becca Blond)
Initially, I believed collagen supplements were merely a marketing gimmick, but scientific evidence supports their effectiveness.
Collagen represents the most prevalent protein in our bodies, playing a vital role in maintaining skin elasticity, hair strength, nail growth, and joint function. As we age, our collagen production naturally diminishes, leading to drier skin, stiffer joints, and fragile nails.
Samantha McKinney, RD, CPT, a Master Trainer at Life Time, emphasizes that not all collagen supplements are equal. “Collagen’s effectiveness depends on the quality and specific ingredients of the product, but it can indeed benefit skin, hair, and nails. Look for products that are third-party tested and specify key ingredient amounts for quality assurance.”
The LTH Rewind Collagen Elixir I used contains Verisol® and Fortigel® peptides, which, according to McKinney, are scientifically proven to enhance skin elasticity and support joint health. Additionally, the formulation includes hyaluronic acid for hydration and vitamin C, which aids the body in naturally producing more collagen—a critical aspect often overlooked by many supplements.
How long does it take to see results?
The initial signs of collagen’s effectiveness became evident around the four-week mark. My skin felt softer and better hydrated. However, the most notable change was the rapid growth of my nails, which became somewhat inconvenient. I had to adjust my dip manicure appointments to accommodate this newfound growth! Nevertheless, the improvements in strength and hydration were well worth it.
McKinney confirms this observation: “When you consume the appropriate types of collagen consistently, early signs often include enhanced skin hydration, improved elasticity, reduction of fine lines, and stronger nails. Many users also experience increased hair growth and healthier joints.”
Research indicates that collagen requires at least 4 to 12 weeks to yield visible results, varying by dosage and individual lifestyle. A 2019 study published in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology reported that women consuming collagen peptides daily for 90 days saw improvements in skin elasticity, hydration, and decreased fine lines.
Is liquid collagen better than powder?
Liquid collagen shots are easier to absorb and more convenient than powders, which often require mixing into drinks.
(Becca Blond)
Collagen supplements are available in various forms, including powders, pills, gummies, and liquid shots. While they generally offer similar benefits, I discovered that sticking to liquid collagen was much easier.
“High-quality liquid elixirs, like our Rewind shots, provide superior absorption despite being less common,” McKinney notes. Hydrolyzed collagen peptides, or collagen hydrolysate, are more bioavailable, meaning they are pre-broken into smaller molecules for better absorption by the body.
Previously, I had difficulty committing to powders, often forgetting to incorporate them into drinks or disliking the altered texture they brought to my morning coffee or smoothies. The liquid shot seamlessly fit into my routine, making daily intake effortless.
Where does collagen come from?
For those following a vegetarian or vegan diet, it’s important to note that collagen is exclusively obtained from animal sources. Typically, these supplements are derived from bovine (cattle), porcine (pigs), or marine (fish) collagen, extracted from animal bones, skin, or connective tissues.
McKinney explains that collagen peptides, particularly hydrolyzed collagen, are the most effective forms due to their improved absorption. While marine collagen is often marketed as superior due to its smaller molecular size, bovine collagen remains the most extensively studied and widely used for its benefits regarding skin and joint health.
For those who do not consume animal products, there are collagen-boosting supplements containing vitamin C, silica, and amino acids that promote natural collagen production. However, these alternatives do not contain actual collagen.
Is it safe to take collagen daily?
For the majority of individuals, yes. “Daily intake of liquid collagen is generally safe, and consistency is essential,” says McKinney. However, it’s worth noting that collagen isn’t a complete protein, as it lacks tryptophan, one of the essential amino acids. It should complement rather than replace your daily protein intake.
Quality is also a significant consideration. “Each batch of our collagen undergoes testing for purity, contaminants, heavy metals, and microbes, which isn’t always ensured with lower-quality brands.”
Final verdict: Is collagen worth it?
After 90 days of consistent use, I am firmly convinced of collagen’s benefits. My skin has become more hydrated, my nails are growing rapidly, and I believe my hair feels stronger (though the science on collagen’s effects on hair is still debated). While collagen won’t eliminate wrinkles instantaneously, both research and my personal experience indicate that steady, high-quality supplementation indeed yields results.
The biggest takeaway? Choose a form you can realistically maintain. The liquid shot proved invaluable for me, as it seamlessly integrated into my daily habits.
And if you decide to start taking it, don’t be surprised if you find yourself scheduling nail appointments more frequently—trust me on that.
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