Inside the Science of Collagen: Skin Health & Longevity with Vida Glow’s Senior Scientist

Collagen is everywhere right now - in our skincare, our supplements, our morning coffees - but with all the hype, it can be hard to separate fact from fiction. What does collagen actually do? When should you start taking it? And does it really make a difference? 

To cut through the noise, we sat down with Lauren Dewsbury, Senior Research Scientist & Product Formulator at Vida Glow, to talk all things collagen. From the science of skin longevity to the biggest misconceptions she sees, Lauren shares what you really need to know - plus her personal collagen routine and product recommendations. 

Understanding Collagen 

Q: For those new to the category, what exactly is collagen and what role does it play in the body? 

A: Collagen has become one of the most talked-about ingredients in beauty and wellness, and for good reason. It is the most abundant protein in the human body, accounting for around 30% of total protein content, and it plays a critical structural role across skin, hair, nails, joints, bones, muscles, blood vessels, and connective tissue. This is why I like to call collagen the molecule of longevity; because it’s implicated in so many tissues that are critical to healthy ageing. 

In skin specifically, collagen provides strength, elasticity, and resilience. It acts as a scaffolding framework that keeps skin firm, smooth, and supported. Beyond aesthetics, collagen is fundamental to tissue repair and regeneration, wound healing, joint integrity, and overall structural health throughout the body. 

Q: Why does our natural collagen production decline as we age? 

A: From our mid-20s onward, natural collagen production begins to decline at a rate of approximately 1% per year. This process is accelerated by factors such as UV exposure, oxidative stress, inflammation, smoking, excess alcohol consumption, poor nutrition and chronic stress. Over time, this gradual loss contributes to visible signs of skin ageing; fine lines, wrinkles, loss of firmness, dehydration and slower tissue repair. 

Collagen peptides are best thought of as a proactive, preventative ingredient rather than a quick fix. Supporting collagen levels earlier helps preserve structural integrity before significant decline occurs. 

Q: At what age should people start thinking about introducing collagen into their routine, and why? 

A: There is no single “right” age, but most people benefit from introducing collagen into their routine from their mid-20s onwards, when endogenous production naturally begins to slow. For younger individuals, collagen supports prevention and long-term skin resilience. For those in their 30s, 40s, and beyond, it becomes an essential tool for maintaining skin quality, joint health, and connective tissue strength. 

Before Taking Collagen 

Q: What should consumers know before they start taking ingestible collagen? 

A: One of the most important things consumers should understand is that collagen supplementation works by providing bioactive collagen peptides (small amino acid chains) that act as building blocks and biological signals. These peptides stimulate cells called fibroblasts in the skin to produce new collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid. 

A common misconception is that collagen works like a quick cosmetic fix. In reality, it supports biological processes that take time. Consistency is key, and results reflect cumulative improvements in skin structure and function rather than overnight changes. 

Q: Are there common misconceptions about collagen supplementation that you often see? 

A: Another misconception is that “all collagen is the same.” The source, molecular weight, manufacturing process, and dose will all influence how effectively collagen is absorbed and utilised by the body. Vida Glow utilises collagen peptides with the smallest molecular weight available in market which increases speed and scope of clinical results. 

Q: How long does it typically take to see results from ingestible collagen, and what factors can influence this? 

A: Most clinical research shows measurable improvements in skin hydration, elasticity, and wrinkle depth within 8–12 weeks of consistent daily use. Factors such as age, baseline collagen status, diet, lifestyle, sun exposure, hormone status and overall skin health will all influence individual response. 

Collagen supplementation should be viewed as part of a long-term investment in skin longevity and resilience, rather than a short-term solution. 

Ingestible vs Topical Collagen 

Q: From a scientific perspective, what makes ingestible collagen more beneficial than topical collagen products? 

A: From a scientific perspective, ingestible collagen peptides offer deeper, systemic benefits compared to topical collagen. When consumed, collagen peptides are absorbed through the gut and distributed via the bloodstream, where they reach the dermis and connective tissues and actively stimulate collagen synthesis from within. 

Q: Can topical collagen still play a role in a skincare routine, or does ingestible collagen offer more long-term benefits? 

A: Topical collagen is too large a molecule to penetrate the skin barrier, a system designed to keep things out! While it can provide surface-level hydration and temporary smoothing effects, it does not increase or support endogenous collagen production. That said, topical collagen can still play a supportive role in a skincare routine, particularly for hydration and barrier support, but it cannot replace the long-term broad-spectrum benefits of ingestible collagen. 

Vida Glow Formulations & Science 

Q: What does the science and research process behind Vida Glow products look like? 

A: At Vida Glow, our formulations are science-led and evidence-driven. Every product begins with ingredient selection based on clinical research, bioavailability, and safety. Our collagen is hydrolysed into very low molecular weight peptides to maximise absorption and biological activity. 

We invest heavily in both third-party clinical trials and in-house consumer studies to assess efficacy across skin hydration, elasticity, firmness, skin texture, and overall skin quality. Quality control, traceability, and rigorous testing are non-negotiable parts of our product development process. 

Q: Is there a difference in benefits between Vida Glow’s liquid collagen and powder collagen? 

A: Both formats deliver the same high-quality collagen peptides and offer comparable benefits. The difference largely comes down to preference and lifestyle. Liquid collagen is convenient, tastes amazing and often includes synergistic actives such as vitamin C or antioxidants. Powder collagen offers flexibility and can be easily mixed into coffee, smoothies, or water. 

What matters most is consistency, so choose the format you are most likely to take daily with a dose that aligns with your skin goals. 

Q: Does Vida Glow collagen need to be taken with water, or can it be consumed on its own or mixed into other beverages? 

A: Vida Glow collagen can be consumed on its own or mixed into beverages without losing efficacy. Because our collagen peptides are heat-stable (up to 150°C), they can even be added to warm drinks like coffee or tea. Personally, I take my collagen peptides in my morning coffee, as that is part of my routine I will never forget! 

Results & Expectations 

Q: What kinds of results can consumers realistically expect from using Vida Glow consistently? 

A: With consistent use, consumers can expect improvements in skin hydration, elasticity, firmness, and overall skin texture. This is very well supported in the clinical research. Many people also notice stronger nails, healthier hair, improved joint comfort, and better connective tissue support. 

Q: Beyond skin health, what other benefits does collagen supplementation support? 

A: Collagen’s benefits extend well beyond beauty; it supports musculoskeletal health, recovery, and structural resilience across the body. 

Personal Insight 

Q: Do you have a go-to Vida Glow product that you personally love or recommend most often, and why? 

A: My personal product stack that I have seen best results with is our Pro Collagen+; it is clinically studied, highly bioavailable, and fits seamlessly into my daily routine. I pair this with our Advanced Repair Luminous capsule for bright, ‘filter-like’ skin  

Q: If someone is completely new to collagen, which Vida Glow product would you suggest starting with? 

A: For those completely new to collagen, I recommend starting with our Natural Marine Collagen. It provides a strong foundational dose, is easy to use, comes in 7 different flavours and delivers visible, science-backed results over time. 

Collagen supplementation is not a passing trend - it is supported by a growing body of rigorous clinical science. When used consistently and thoughtfully, collagen becomes a cornerstone of long-term skin health, structural resilience, and healthy ageing. 

As Lauren explains, the key isn’t chasing instant results, but committing to a routine that supports your skin from the inside out - now and for years to come. 

Shop the full Vida Glow range at Oz Hair and Beauty.