Collagen vs Glutathione - Which is Better for Skin Care

Time takes its toll on our skin, leaving behind a trail of fine lines and wrinkles. While we can't stop the clock, we can certainly slow it down. Entering the world of skin supplements, collagen, and glutathione- two buzzwords promising to preserve skin's youthfulness and enhance its overall appearance. But which one is the real deal? Here’s a peek into the world of these skin-saving supplements, their differences, their benefits for the skin, and which one might be the better choice for your skincare regime.

What is Collagen? 

Collagen is a protein that is revered as the building block for the skin, hair, bones, muscles, tendons, and ligaments. As we hit our mid-20s, our body’s collagen levels begin to decline, leading to visible effects as the skin loses its shine and sheen. A woman can lose up to 30% of her collagen in the first five years of menopause, leading to sagging skin, wrinkles, and pigmentation. Collagen is crucial for the skin's structure, elasticity, and hydration, all of which are essential for maintaining a youthful appearance.

Benefits of Collagen for skin 

Improved Firmness & Elasticity 

As we grow older, collagen tends to decline resulting in loose skin and wrinkles. Supplementing with collagen helps restore elasticity, leaving your skin feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

88 % of clinical trial participants felt a significant improvement in the overall

appearance of their skin, particularly in elasticity, luminosity, and hydration. (Source- NIH)

Reduction in Wrinkles & Fine lines 

Consistent consumption of collagen peptides can lead to a noticeable decrease in wrinkles and fine lines. This is because collagen helps to maintain the skin’s structural integrity.

A study found that 12 weeks of consistent collagen consumption significantly reduced wrinkles and fine lines by 35%. (Source- NIH)

Improved Skin Hydration 

Hydroxyproline is an amino acid present in collagen, which also helps your body retain its moisture. 

Clinical trials demonstrated 28% improvement in skin hydration after 8 weeks with marine collagen. (Source- NIH)

A review of 19 studies found that taking hydrolyzed collagen improved skin hydration, elasticity, and wrinkles compared with placebo treatments (Source-NIH)

Renewal & Regeneration of Skin cells 

Collagen is essential for wound healing and tissue repair. It helps form new tissues, speeding up the healing process and reducing scarring.

A study demonstrated 31% reduction in collagen fragmentation (Source- NIH)

What is Glutathione 

Glutathione, a master antioxidant naturally synthesized by the liver, consists of glutamine, glycine, and cysteine. This vital compound contributes to tissue repair and numerous bodily processes. It combats free radicals and aids in skin cell detoxification. Glutathione is crucial for enzyme and hormone production and supports immune function. Its skin-lightening properties have led to its marketing in the skincare industry, thanks to its ability to promote a brighter, more even complexion.

Benefits of Glutathione for skin 

Even Tones & Brightens Skin

One of the most sought-after benefits of L-Glutathione is its ability to promote skin brightening and even tone. Regular intake of Glutathione supplements can aid in inhibiting the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for dark spots and uneven skin tone, leading to a visibly brighter and more radiant complexion.

Studies show that oral glutathione, 250 mg per day, in both reduced and oxidized forms had beneficial effects on skin lightening and possibly an antiaging agent. (Source-NIH)

Another study demonstrated reduced L-glutathione (500 ug/ml) consumption has been linked to a 25% reduction in melanin production in vitro.  (Source-NIH)

Antioxidant Properties 

Glutathione often hailed as the mother of all antioxidants, plays a pivotal role in protecting the skin from oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals. By neutralising harmful free radicals, Glutathione helps in preventing the signs of premature ageing.

Helps Detoxify

The detoxifying properties of Glutathione play a crucial role in eliminating toxins and impurities from the body. By promoting internal detoxification, Glutathione contributes to skin rejuvenation, imparting a youthful and revitalised look.

Synergy of Collagen & Glutathione Supplements 

The synergy between collagen and glutathione offers a comprehensive approach to promoting skin resilience and vitality. Glutathione aids in the body's collagen synthesis, contributing to skin firmness and elasticity, while its antioxidant properties shield collagen from damage, boosting its effectiveness. In turn, collagen's structural benefits support glutathione's role in sustaining skin health and countering aging effects, leading to a stronger defense against the visible signs of aging.

Collagen vs Glutathione: Which is better 

Collagen vs glutathione – the debate about which is better can be inconclusive. Collagen is essential for providing structure, strength, and support to the skin, whereas glutathione works to neutralize the effects of free radicals. However, when used together, glutathione with collagen complement each other greatly. While both have different roles to play, they supplement each other’s mechanisms and reverse the signs of ageing on the skin. The best glutathione and collagen supplements are those made from pure, high-quality ingredients. Opting for these ensures maximum effectiveness and benefits for your skin health.