Collagen Supplements: Do You Really Need Them and What Should You Look For?
When it comes to healthy, glowing skin and strong joints, collagen has become one of the most talked-about supplements- but what does it actually do, and is it worth taking?
What Collagen Supplements Actually Do
First, it’s important to understand that collagen supplements don’t supply collagen directly to your skin. Instead, they provide the nutrients and building blocks your body needs to support its natural collagen production.
Collagen formation is a complex process that relies on more than just protein and this is where co-factors come in.
Choosing a Collagen Supplement: What to Look For
With so many powders, capsules, and drinks on the market, it can be overwhelming to know which product to choose. The key is to look past the hype and focus on the ingredients list.
Avoid products filled with:
Bulking agents
Added sugars or flavourings
Acidity regulators
Glazing agents
Instead, look for key co-factors that support healthy collagen formation:
Vitamin C – essential for collagen synthesis
Zinc, copper, and manganese – important minerals that work synergistically with collagen
Antioxidants – to help protect collagen from breakdown caused by oxidative stress
What Breaks Down Collagen?
To get the most from your supplement, it’s also useful to know what reduces natural collagen in the first place. The biggest culprits are:
Sun exposure
Smoking
Excess sugar
This is why we often talk about “banking collagen” in the supplement world, supporting your body’s natural supply, while also protecting it from premature breakdown.
Skin-Boosting Support with Collagen Supplements
ANP Collagen Support goes beyond basic collagen powders. It contains:
700mg of MSM (methylsulphonylmethane) – a sulphur-rich compound known for its anti-inflammatory effects, which support joint and skin health
Vitamin C and Zinc – essential co-factors for collagen formation
Grapeseed extract and melon concentrate – powerful antioxidants that help reduce oxidative stress
Unlike many collagen products on the market that only contain MSM (and sometimes bulk fillers), ANP’s formula is multi-functional, designed to actively support skin health and fight inflammation.
Why MSM Matters for Skin
MSM is particularly beneficial from a dermatological perspective. It helps support the production of keratin, a key structural protein in the skin, and can reduce inflammation, making it a helpful ingredient for those dealing with:
Rosacea
Premature ageing
General skin sensitivity
The Bottom Line
If you’re considering adding a collagen supplement to your routine, don’t just grab the first one you see. Check the label carefully for essential ingredients, not just collagen, but the co-factors that help your body use it effectively.
And remember: beautiful, healthy skin comes not just from what you put on it, but what you feed it from within.
