What is collagen banking and is it legit?

Collagen banking is this spring’s buzziest beauty term, and although it’s not a new concept, it’s one that YOMU dived into with the help of SANA founder, Kylie Jane.

Any beauty and wellness buff worth their Himalayan salt knows that collagen is synonymous with youth, and collagen banking refers to the idea that we can all stockpile our supply, to help us later. As the age-old saying goes - “prevention is better than cure.”

"Collagen banking" refers to the concept of preserving or maximising collagen levels in the body to delay or minimise the effects of ageing on the skin and other tissues. While the term itself may not be widely recognised in scientific literature, the idea behind carries merit and is often discussed in the context of skincare and anti-aging practices.

The premise of collagen banking is based on the understanding that collagen, a protein that provides structural support to the skin, tends to diminish with age, leading to the formation of wrinkles, sagging, and other signs of ageing. Therefore, the goal of collagen banking is to boost collagen production or prevent collagen breakdown to maintain youthful-looking skin and overall health.

There are several ways to "bank" or preserve collagen in the body:

1. Dietary Supplements
Taking collagen supplements, such as marine collagen peptides or collagen protein powders, is a popular method to support collagen production in the body. These supplements are typically derived from sources like fish, bovine, or chicken collagen and are believed to help replenish collagen levels in the skin and connective tissues.

2. Topical Skincare Products
Certain skincare products contain ingredients that can stimulate collagen synthesis or protect existing collagen from degradation. Examples include retinoids (such as retinol), vitamin C, peptides, and antioxidants like vitamin E and coenzyme Q10.

3. Healthy Lifestyle Choices
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can also contribute to collagen banking. Practices such as eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and protein, staying hydrated, getting enough sleep, minimising sun exposure, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can support overall skin health and collagen production.

4. Medical Procedures 
Some medical procedures and treatments aim to stimulate collagen production or improve collagen structure in the skin. These include procedures like micro-needling, laser therapy, or radio-frequency treatments. 

While collagen banking is not a guaranteed method to stop or reverse the ageing process entirely, incorporating these practices into your skincare routine and lifestyle may help maintain healthier, more youthful-looking skin over time. As with any skincare or wellness approach, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional or dermatologist for personalised advice and recommendations.

Whether you fancy trying collagen banking, or are simply ‘collagen curious’, SANA’s NEW Marine Collagen+  is a great place to start…

Incorporating marine collagen into your routine can offer comprehensive wellness benefits, from skin rejuvenation to gut health and beyond. Benefits include; 

Skin Support: Rich in Type I collagen, marine collagen improves skin elasticity, reduces wrinkles, and enhances hydration, promoting a youthful appearance.

Gut Health: Marine collagen's amino acids, like glycine and proline, strengthen the gut lining, reducing inflammation and supporting a balanced gut microbiome.

Hair and Nail Health: Collagen's amino acids, especially proline, support keratin formation, promoting stronger, healthier hair and nails.

Bone and Joint Support: Marine collagen stimulates collagen synthesis, improving bone density, reducing joint pain, and enhancing overall bone and joint health.

Protein Source: With its wide amino acid profile, marine collagen provides valuable protein, supporting a pescatarian diet.

Anti-Aging Properties: Marine collagen's antioxidant effects combat free radicals, firming and plumping the skin, reducing wrinkles, and enhancing radiance.

Bioavailability: Marine collagen peptides are easily absorbed and transported to target tissues, offering high bioavailability and bioactivity for optimal results.

Unlike standard collagen products on the market, SANA’s daily inner-beauty powder is fast absorbing and is enhanced with probiotics to aid digestive wellbeing. Ideal for aiding gut health and achieving hydrated, plumper, radiant skin, SANA uses collagen that is derived from 100% wild-caught deep-sea fish. It is nutritionist-formulated, unflavoured and made within the EU and comes in at £33.00.

For more details head to SANA and let us know what you think.