IN PROFILE
The Beauty + Gut Collagen Connection
Think of collagen , and you probably think of skin, but its benefits go well beyond beauty.
4 Strengthens bones: Collagen forms the structural framework of bone, helping provide the foundation that minerals like calcium need to support strength. 5 Reduces joint stiffness: Studies suggest that taking supplemental collagen peptides may reduce the pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis, improving joint function, movement and mobility.
Collagen is the body’s most abundant structural protein and a key building block for connective tissue throughout the body. While best known for supporting skin elasticity and hydration, collagen is also found in bones, cartilage, muscles, tendons, blood vessels and the lining of the digestive tract, where it helps support strength, resilience and repair. Your body naturally produces collagen every day, but production slows with age. Stress, poor nutrition, sun exposure, environmental toxins and hormonal changes can accelerate the decline. Over time, lower collagen levels may affect not only skin, but also joint mobility, muscle recovery, bone strength and gut barrier integrity. Top 5 benefits of collagen 1 Supports skin, hair and nails: Collagen works alongside elastin and hyaluronic acid to help maintain skin firmness, hydration and elasticity, while also supporting healthy hair and nails. 2 Supports muscle recovery: Collagen helps maintain muscle structure and the connective tissue around it. Rich in amino acids such as glycine and proline, collagen helps support tissue repair, muscle integrity and recovery following exercise. 3 Supports gut health: Collagen-derived amino acids help support the gut lining, aiding better nutrient absorption, immune function and a balanced inflammatory response.
What is the gut-skin axis?
Your gut health can influence your skin through the gut-skin axis. When the gut barrier and microbiome are well supported, the body is better equipped to regulate inflammation and absorb nutrients needed for skin renewal. Marine and bovine collagen peptides may complement this process, especially alongside vitamin C, silica, hyaluronic acid and prebiotic fibres that nourish beneficial gut bacteria.
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ISSUE 77 • 2026
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