Collagen from within: What actually happens
This year I turned 33 - which basically means my collagen production has been declining for about eight years. I don't have an issue with getting older. But I am also not opposed to supporting the process consciously - instead of unconsciously accelerating it.
Before we reach for dietary supplements, it's worth taking an honest look at our lifestyle: exercise, sleep, diet - that's the foundation. A blood test or medical assessment can also be helpful to understand your real needs.
I didn’t start taking collagen because something was “wrong” — at least that’s what I thought. I started out of curiosity: to see if there was still room for improvement. Looking back, that moment marked the beginning of truly understanding my body.
Let's start with the basics.
What to expect
Collagen - the invisible network beneath your skin
Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body. It gives skin and connective tissue their firmness, supports tendons and muscles, and contributes to the stability of bones and joints. About one third of all proteins in our body are collagen — a network that becomes thinner over time.
Collagen production decreases from around 25:
- Fibroblasts become less active (they form collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid),
this is compounded by external factors such as UV radiation, stress, lack of sleep, smoking
or a diet high in sugar.
Collagen
peptides
The little messengers of inner renewal
Collagen peptides are short amino acid sequences (rich in glycine, proline, hydroxyproline, among others) broken down into a form the body can absorb efficiently. Because of their small size, they can be taken up through the small intestine and enter the bloodstream. There, they act as signal molecules: activating fibroblasts — the cells that produce new collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid.
Peptides therefore do not replace collagen; they stimulate the body's own production - a subtle impulse for regeneration from within.
But what do collagen peptides actually do?
In studies with bioactive collagen peptides, positive results have been repeatedly observed in recent years.
The results
Skin | After around eight weeks of daily intake, a visible reduction in wrinkle depth* (approx. 20%) was observed, accompanied by a significant increase in Procollagen I* (+65%) and Elastin* (+18%) — the key structural components responsible for firmness and elasticity.
Hair | After 16 weeks of daily intake of 2.5 g, hair thickness increased significantly (+1.93 μm compared to –0.99 μm in the placebo group).
In vitro, the proliferation rate of hair-follicle cells increased by 31% — a strong indication that bioactive collagen peptides can support keratin-based tissues such as hair and nails from within.**
Nails | In a 24-week study with an additional 4-week off-therapy phase, nail growth rate increased by 12%, while the frequency of broken nails decreased by 42%. 64% of participants showed a clinically visible improvement in brittle nails — and 88% still reported stronger, more resistant nails four weeks after discontinuation. The majority (80%) were satisfied with the results.***
Joints | Young, regularly active adults reported a significantly stronger reduction in activity-related knee pain after 12 weeks of daily intake of 5 g specific collagen peptides compared with the placebo group (–21.9 mm vs. –15.6 mm on the Visual Analogue Scale). Physician assessments confirmed this effect.****
*Proksch et al. (2014) Pharmacol Physiol (2014) 27 (3): 113–119.
**Oesser (2020) Nutrafoods, 1:134- 138.
***Hexsel et al. (2017) J Cosmet Dermatol, (16)1-7.
**** Zdzieblik D et al. 2021 J Bone Metab ; 28(3):207-213
My experience
After about two months, I noticed clear changes:
My acne visibly calmed, my skin felt more elastic, and fine lines appeared softer. Subjectively, I also felt that my post-run recovery improved and that I had fewer moments of joint sensitivity. Of course, these are personal observations — but they encouraged me to look deeper into collagen peptides.
And because personal impressions are only half the truth, it is worth taking a look at the formulation behind them.
Where science meets everyday life
Formetta is led by two women: biochemist Dr. Vanessa Craig, who is responsible for the scientific basis and formulation logic, and Vanesa Trütsch, who manages and develops the brand as an entrepreneur.
Their common goal: to combine nutrients in such a way that they support the body's own processes in a comprehensible and meaningful way.
The focus is on cell health: what makes skin, hair, connective tissue and energy noticeable starts at cell level. Formetta works with BCP Complex (bioactive collagen peptides) and specifically selected micronutrients.
Recently, Beauty Collagen and a new vegan anti-ageing variant have been added to the range alongside the tried-and-tested Superior and Essential formulations.
Brief overview: the logic behind the formulas
-
Superior - comprehensive approach
BCP + liposomal vitamin C to activate collagen synthesis. Supplemented with MSM, grape seed extract (OPC), CoQ10, an electrolyte blend and biotin. For all those who want to support skin, regeneration and cellular protection at the same time. -
Essential - essential basics
Uses BCP and pearl powder extract for a simple, clear foundation. Ideal as a neutral base - alone or combined with other formulas. -
Beauty Collagen - Focus Skin & Glow
BCP® Collagen Peptides stimulate the body's own collagen production for more firmness and elasticity. Cynatine® (soluble keratin) supports skin, hair structure, shine and nail strength. SkinAx® Antioxidant Complex provides more luminosity, a more even skin tone and fewer dark circles under the eyes - for a visible glow. -
Vegan anti-ageing - plant-based longevity focus
Uses clinically proven active ingredients such as Ceratiq® (plant-based phytoceramides), Astaxanthin, Lutemax® and BioEnhanced® Na-RALA for hydration, skin smoothness, antioxidant protection and cellular energy. Supplemented with Lycobeads®, CoQ10Vital®, SkinAx™, Theracurmin®, Iodine, Vitamin D3 and Vitamin K2 for comprehensive healthy-ageing support. Ideal for anyone looking for a complete, vegan anti-ageing formulation - with a focus on skin appearance, cell protection and long-term vitality.
The path to the right formulation
In the next article in this series, we will categorize specific goals and life situations: "Which formetta is for me?" - including simple decision-making logic and sensible combination options.
A little tip for now:
If you are just starting out with collagen and are in your 30s, Beauty Collagen is often the most intuitive way to get started.
If you are looking for a more comprehensive, multi-layered formulation, there is hardly any way around Superior.
More on this - including routines & combinations - in the next blog post.
And if you have any questions, feel free to write them in the comments.
The author : Patricia | Co-Founder Self Kaer
Patricia Schefer is a holistic health coach and founder of Self Kaer. After over 15 years of acne, she knows first-hand how overwhelming the topic of skin can be - and how much easier it becomes when you understand what your body needs. That's exactly what she shares today: self-care that makes sense and feels good.
Frequently asked questions
How quickly will I see results with collagen peptides?
Many people notice initial changes after 6-8 weeks, especially in skin hydration and elasticity. Hair takes longer - usually 12-16 weeks.
What is the difference between collagen and collagen peptides?
Collagen is a large structural protein. Collagen peptides are small, bioactive sequences that can be absorbed by the body and stimulate fibroblasts.
What is the difference between marine and bovine collagen?
Collagen can be obtained from numerous sources, including cows, pigs, chickens and marine animals. There is no evidence that any source of collagen is more effective than bovine collagen. Bovine collagen, unlike marine collagen, is free of the 14 major allergens and is a preferred choice for people with shellfish or fish allergies.
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