Top bats collagen for the beauty of hair and nails: a guide for choice and application
I. Collagen: The basis of the beauty of hair and nails
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What is collagen?
Collagen is a fibrillar protein, which is the main structural component of connective tissue in the body of the human and animals. It accounts for about 30% of the total mass of proteins in the body and acts as a building material for the skin, hair, nails, bones, joints, ligaments, muscles and blood vessels. Collagen provides the strength, elasticity and elasticity of these tissues. The collagen molecule consists of three amino acid chains twisted into a spiral, forming a strong fiber. The main amino acids that make up the collagen are glycine, praise and hydroxyproline. With age, the development of collagen by the body decreases, which leads to the appearance of signs of aging, such as wrinkles, loss of skin elasticity, brittle hair and nails, joint pain.
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Types of collagen and their functions:
There are many types of collagen, but the most common are the following:
- Type and: The most common type of collagen is about 90% of the total collagen in the body. It is present in the skin, bones, tendons, ligaments, cornea of the eyes and internal organs. Is responsible for the strength and elasticity of these tissues.
- Type II: The main component of cartilage tissue provides depreciation and joint protection. Helps maintain joint health and reduces the risk of arthritis.
- Type III: It is part of the skin, blood vessels and internal organs. Is responsible for the elasticity and elasticity of the skin, as well as for healing wounds. Often found with a type I collagen.
- Type IV: The basis of basal membranes, which support the structure of cells and tissues. Plays an important role in the functioning of the kidneys, eyes and other organs.
- Type V: It is part of the hair and placenta. Participates in the formation of the hair structure and is necessary for the normal development of the fetus.
For the health of hair and nails, the most important collagen of III types are most important.
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The influence of collagen on the hair:
Collagen plays an important role in the health and beauty of the hair:
- Strengthening hair follicles: Collagen strengthens the hair follicles, which prevents hair loss and stimulates their growth. Healthy follicles produce thicker and stronger hair.
- Improving hair structure: Collagen restores the damaged hair structure, makes them more smooth, shiny and elastic. It fills microcracks and pores in the structure of the hair, preventing brittleness and split ends.
- Hair growth stimulation: Collagen contains amino acids necessary for the production of keratin, the main protein, of which the hair consists of. A sufficient amount of collagen contributes to a faster and healthy hair growth.
- Hair volume increase: Strengthening the hair follicles and improving the structure of the hair leads to an increase in hair volume, making them more thick and lush.
- Damage protection: Collagen creates a protective layer on the surface of the hair, which protects them from the negative effects of the environment, such as ultraviolet radiation, heat treatment and chemicals.
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The influence of collagen on the nails:
Collagen has a positive effect on the health and beauty of nails:
- Strengthening the nail plate: Collagen strengthens the nail plate, prevents the brittleness, stratification and formation of cracks. It makes the nails more durable and resistant to damage.
- Acceleration of nail growth: Collagen stimulates the growth of nails, making them longer and healthy. It provides nail cells with the necessary nutrients for active growth.
- Improving the appearance of nails: Collagen makes the nails more smooth, shiny and healthy in appearance. It eliminates the irregularities and defects of the nail plate.
- Prevention of the appearance of white spots: The lack of collagen can lead to the appearance of white spots on the nails. A sufficient amount of collagen helps to prevent this problem.
- Improving the elasticity of nails: Collagen gives the nails elasticity, which makes them less prone to damage and brittleness.
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Causes of collagen deficiency:
With age, the production of collagen in the body naturally decreases, which leads to the appearance of signs of aging. However, there are other factors that can contribute to the deficiency of collagen:
- Age: After 25 years, the production of collagen begins to decline, and this process accelerates with age.
- Inal meals: The lack of protein, vitamins and minerals in the diet can lead to a deficiency of collagen. Vitamin C, copper and zinc, which are involved in the synthesis of collagen are especially important.
- Ultraviolet radiation: The prolonged exposure to ultraviolet radiation destroys collagen in the skin and accelerates the aging process.
- Smoking: Smoking reduces the production of collagen and worsens its quality.
- Stress: Chronic stress can negatively affect the production of collagen.
- Some diseases: Some diseases, such as autoimmune diseases and diseases of the connective tissue, can lead to collagen deficiency.
- Excessive physical activity: Intensive physical activity can increase the body’s need for collagen.
II. Types of dietary supplements with collagen
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Differences by origin of collagen:
Collagen for dietary supplements is obtained from various sources:
- Sea collagen: They get from leather and bones of sea fish (for example, cod, salmon, tuna) and mollusks. It is believed that sea collagen has smaller molecules, which provides better body digestibility. Basically contains collagen of I and II types. Suitable to improve the condition of the skin, hair and nails. Often contains amino acids necessary for the synthesis of keratin.
- Animal collagen: Received from leather, bones and cartilage of cattle (cows) or pigs. Contains collagen of I and III types. Suitable for maintaining the health of the skin, hair, nails, as well as for strengthening bones and joints. More affordable than sea collagen.
- Chicken collagen: Get from a cartilage chickens. Contains type II collagen, as well as glucosamine and chondroitin. It is mainly used to maintain joint health and cartilage. It can be useful for people with arthritis and other joint diseases.
- Plant collagen: Strictly speaking, plant collagen does not exist. Plants do not produce collagen. Bades that are positioned as a “plant collagen” contain substances that stimulate the production of their own collagen in the body (for example, amino acids, vitamin C, hyaluronic acid). Suitable for vegetarians and vegan.
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Collagen release forms:
Collagen is presented in various forms of release:
- Powder: Collagen powder must be dissolved in water, juice or other drink. Easy to dose, you can add to smoothies and cocktails. Often has a neutral taste or light smell.
- Capsules/tablets: Convenient to use, do not require cooking. They have no taste and smell. The dosage is clearly defined in each capsule/tablet.
- Chewing sweets/marmalade: Attractive for children and people who do not like to swallow pills. They have a pleasant taste and aroma. Contain collagen in a small dosage.
- Liquid collagen: Ready for use, has a pleasant taste. It is absorbed faster than powder or capsules. Often contains additional vitamins and minerals.
- Creams and serums with collagen: Designed for external use. Moisturize and nourish the skin, increase its elasticity and elasticity. May contain other useful ingredients, such as hyaluronic acid, vitamin E and antioxidants.
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Hydrolyzed collagen: Advantages:
Hydrolyzed collagen is a collagen that was split into smaller peptides (amino acids). This process improves the digestibility of collagen by the body:
- Improved digestibility: Small peptides of hydrolyzed collagen are more easily absorbed into the blood and reach target tissues.
- Quick action: Thanks to improved digestibility, hydrolyzed collagen has a positive effect on the skin, hair, nails and joints faster.
- Smaller risk of allergic reactions: Hydrolysis reduces the risk of allergic reactions to collagen.
When choosing a dietary supplement with collagen, it is recommended to give preference to a hydrolyzed collagen.
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Related components in dietary supplements:
Many collagen dietary supplements contain additional components that enhance its effect and have a comprehensive effect on the body:
- Vitamin C: It is necessary for the synthesis of collagen in the body. Enhances antioxidant protection of the skin.
- Hyaluronic acid: Moisturizes the skin, increases its elasticity and elasticity. Holds moisture in the skin, preventing its dryness and peeling.
- Biotin (Vitamin B7): Strengthens hair and nails, improves their structure. Participates in the metabolism of fats, proteins and carbohydrates.
- Zinc: It is necessary for the synthesis of collagen and keratin. Participates in the growth and division of cells.
- Copper: Participates in the formation of collagen and elastin. Protects cells from damage by free radicals.
- Silicon: Strengthens bones, hair and nails. Participates in collagen synthesis.
- Antioxidants (vitamin E, resveratrol): Protect cells from damage by free radicals, slow down the aging process.
- Amino acids (glycine, praolin, hydroxyproline): Are building blocks of collagen. Participate in the synthesis of collagen in the body.
When choosing a dietary supplement with collagen, attention should be paid to the presence of these components.
III. TOP Badov Collagen for the Beauty of Hair and Nails (Review)
(Note: the list presented below is an example and requires constant updating and adaptation to the current market trends and consumer reviews. It is important to conduct your own research and consultation with a doctor before using any dietary supplement.)
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California Gold Nutrition, CollagenUP:
- Type of collagen: Sea hydrolyzed collagen (I, III)
- Output form: Powder
- Additional components: Hyaluronic acid, vitamin C
- Advantages: High bioavailability, improves the condition of the skin, hair and nails, contains hyaluronic acid to moisturize the skin.
- Flaws: It can have a specific fish smell, it is necessary to dissolve in liquids.
- Reviews: Consumers note an improvement in the condition of the skin (reduction of wrinkles, increased elasticity), strengthening hair and nails.
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Neocell, Super Collagen + C:
- Type of collagen: Animal collagen (I, III types)
- Output form: Tablets
- Additional components: Vitamin C.
- Advantages: A convenient form of release, does not require cooking, strengthens the skin, hair and nails.
- Flaws: It can cause allergic reactions in people with beef intolerance, tablets can be large for swallowing.
- Reviews: Consumers note an improvement in the condition of the skin, a decrease in fragility of nails, strengthening hair.
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Vital Proteins, Marine Collagen:
- Type of collagen: Sea collagen (I type)
- Output form: Powder
- Additional components: Absent
- Advantages: A clean composition, without additives and flavorings, is suitable for people with allergies, improves skin condition.
- Flaws: It is necessary to dissolve in liquids, it can have a light fish smell, does not contain additional components.
- Reviews: Consumers note an improvement in the condition of the skin (moisturizing, increased elasticity), strengthening hair.
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Garden of Life, Mykind Organics Vegan Collagen Builder:
- Type of collagen: (Does not contain collagen, but contains components that stimulate its production)
- Output form: Tablets
- Additional components: Vitamin C, biotin, silicon, plant extracts (green tea, turmeric)
- Advantages: Suitable for vegetarians and vegan, contains organic ingredients, stimulates the production of its own collagen in the body.
- Flaws: The effect can be less pronounced than when taking collagen of animal origin.
- Reviews: Consumers note an improvement in the condition of the skin, hair and nails, but the effect can be less noticeable than when taking ordinary collagen.
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Sports Research, Collagen Peptides:
- Type of collagen: Animal hydrolyzed collagen (I, III types)
- Output form: Powder
- Additional components: Absent
- Advantages: Hydrolyzed collagen, easily absorbed, does not contain GMOs and gluten, improves the condition of the skin, hair and nails.
- Flaws: It is necessary to dissolve in the liquid, it may have a slight taste.
- Reviews: Consumers note an improvement in the condition of the skin (reduction of wrinkles, increased elasticity), strengthening hair and nails, reducing joint pain.
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Youtheory, Collagen Advanced Formula:
- Type of collagen: Animal collagen (I, II, III)
- Output form: Tablets
- Additional components: Vitamin C.
- Advantages: It contains three types of collagen, strengthens the skin, hair, nails and joints, contains vitamin C to enhance the effect.
- Flaws: Tablets can be large for swallowing, can cause allergic reactions in people with beef intolerance.
- Reviews: Consumers note an improvement in the condition of the skin, a decrease in joint pain, strengthening hair and nails.
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Great Lakes Gelatin Co., Collagen Hydrolysate:
- Type of collagen: Animal hydrolyzed collagen (I, III types)
- Output form: Powder
- Additional components: Absent
- Advantages: Hydrolyzed collagen, easily absorbed, does not contain additives and flavors, improves the condition of the skin, hair and nails, strengthens the joints.
- Flaws: It is necessary to dissolve in the liquid, it may have a slight taste.
- Reviews: Consumers note an improvement in the condition of the skin (reduction of wrinkles, increased elasticity), strengthening hair and nails, reducing joint pain.
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Reserveage Nutrition, Collagen Replenish Powder:
- Type of collagen: Sea hydrolyzed collagen (I type)
- Output form: Powder
- Additional components: Hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, resveratrol
- Advantages: Contains antioxidants, protects the skin from damage by free radicals, improves skin condition, moisturizes it, and increases elasticity.
- Flaws: It is necessary to dissolve in liquids, it can have a specific fish smell, a higher price.
- Reviews: Consumers note an improvement in the condition of the skin (reduction of wrinkles, increased elasticity, moisturizing), strengthening hair and nails.
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Codeage, Multi Collagen Peptides:
- Type of collagen: Animal hydrolyzed collagen (I, II, III, V, X types)
- Output form: Capsules/powder
- Additional components: Absent
- Advantages: Contains five types of collagen, improves the condition of the skin, hair, nails, joints and intestines, is suitable for people with various needs.
- Flaws: It can cause allergic reactions in people with beef intolerance, capsules can be large for swallowing.
- Reviews: Consumers note an improvement in the condition of the skin, a decrease in joint pain, strengthening hair and nails, and improving digestion.
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Dr. Axe/Ancient Nutrition, Multi Collagen Protein:
- Type of collagen: Animal hydrolyzed collagen (I, II, III, V, X types)
- Output form: Powder
- Additional components: Absent
- Advantages: Contains five types of collagen, improves the condition of the skin, hair, nails, joints and intestines, does not contain GMOs and gluten.
- Flaws: It is necessary to dissolve in the liquid, it may have a slight taste.
- Reviews: Consumers note an improvement in the condition of the skin, a decrease in joint pain, strengthening hair and nails, and improving digestion.
IV. How to choose the best dietary supplement with collagen:
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Determine the purpose of the reception: Determine why you need a collagen: to improve the condition of the skin, hair, nails, joints or for a comprehensive healing of the body. Depending on the goal, choose a collagen of a certain type. For example, to improve the condition of the skin, hair and nails, II and III collagen is suitable, and type II collagen is suitable for joint health.
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Consider the type of collagen: Choose a collagen received from a source suitable for you: a sea, animal or chicken. Consider your preferences and possible allergic reactions. Sea collagen is considered more bioavailable, but animal collagen is more affordable in price.
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Pay attention to the release form: Choose the output form that is most convenient for you: powder, capsules/tablets, chewing sweets/marmalade or liquid collagen. The powder must be dissolved in liquids, capsules/tablets are convenient to use, chewing sweets/marmalade are attractive for children, and liquid collagen is absorbed faster.
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Look for a hydrolyzed collagen: Choose dietary supplements containing a hydrolyzed collagen, as it is better absorbed by the body. The hydrolyzed collagen is split into smaller peptides, which are more easily absorbed into the blood and reach target tissues.
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Check the availability of additional components: Pay attention to the presence of additional components such as vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, biotin, zinc, copper and antioxidants. These components enhance the effect of collagen and have a comprehensive effect on the body.
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Study reviews: Before buying dietary supplements, study the reviews of other consumers. Pay attention to reviews about the effectiveness of the product, its taste and side effects.
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Consult a doctor: Before taking a dietary supplement with a collagen, consult a doctor, especially if you have any diseases or take other medicines. The doctor will help you choose the right dietary supplement and determine the optimal dosage.
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Pay attention to the manufacturer: Choose products of well -known and trusted manufacturers that guarantee the quality and safety of your products. Pay attention to the availability of quality and compliance with standards.
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Compare prices: Compare the prices of various dietary supplements with collagen. Not always the most expensive dietary supplement is the best. Pay attention to the ratio of price and quality.
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Consider the individual characteristics: When choosing a dietary supplement with collagen, take into account your individual characteristics, such as age, gender, state of health and lifestyle. For example, for older people, a higher dosage of collagen may be required.
V. How to take dietary supplements with collagen:
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Dosage: Follow the recommended dosage indicated on the pack of dietary supplements. It is usually recommended to take from 5 to 15 grams of collagen per day. In some cases, the doctor may recommend a higher dosage.
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Reception time: It is best to take a collagen on an empty stomach, 30 minutes before meals or 2 hours after eating. This improves its digestibility. Some studies show that the intake of collagen before bedtime can be more effective, since at this time the body is actively restored.
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Method accepts: Collagen powder must be dissolved in water, juice or other drink. Capsules/tablets must be washed down with water. Liquid collagen is ready for use.
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Duration of admission: To achieve the visible result, it is necessary to take a collagen with a course of at least 3 months. After that, you can take a break for 1-2 months and repeat the course. In some cases, you can take collagen on an ongoing basis.
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Combination with other substances: To improve the digestibility of collagen, it is recommended to take it together with vitamin C. It is also useful to combine collagen with other substances, such as hyaluronic acid, biotin, zinc, copper and antioxidants.
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Important: When any side effects appear (for example, an allergic reaction, stomach disorders) stop taking a dietary supplement and consult a doctor.
VI. Collagen in food:
Although dietary supplements are an effective way to replenish the collagen deficiency, it is also important to include products that contain collagen or stimulate its production:
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Bone broth: It is rich in collagen, amino acids and minerals. Regular use of bone broth can improve the condition of the skin, hair, nails and joints.
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Fish and seafood: Contain sea collagen, which is easily absorbed by the body. Salmon, tuna, cod and shrimp are especially useful.
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Chicken: Contains type II collagen, which is useful for joint health. Chicken cartilage and skin are especially rich in collagen.
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Eggs: Contain praise and glycine, amino acids necessary for the synthesis of collagen.
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Citrus fruit: Contain vitamin C, which is necessary for the synthesis of collagen. Oranges, grapefruits, lemons and limes are especially useful.
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Berries: Contain antioxidants that protect collagen from destruction. Blueberries, strawberries, raspberries and blackberries are especially useful.
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Green sheet vegetables: Contain vitamin C and other nutrients necessary for the synthesis of collagen. Spinach, cabbage and broccoli are especially useful.
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Legumes: Contain amino acids necessary for the synthesis of collagen. The beans, lentils and peas are especially useful.
VII. Alternative ways to stimulate collagen production:
In addition to taking dietary supplements and eating food, there are other ways to stimulate collagen production in the body:
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Professional cosmetic procedures:
- Micronidling: It stimulates the production of collagen by creating microscopic punctures in the skin.
- Laser grinding: Removes damaged layers of the skin, stimulating the production of a new collagen.
- RF lifting (radio wave lifting): Heating the deep layers of the skin, stimulating the production of collagen and elastin.
- Ultrasonic SMAS lifting: It affects the SMAS-layer (muscle-aponeurotic system), stimulating the production of collagen and pulling the skin.
- Collagen injections: They make up for collagen deficiency in the skin, smooth wrinkles and improve its elasticity.
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Home cosmetics:
- Facial massage: Improves blood circulation and stimulates collagen production.
- Facial masks with collagen: Moisturize and nourish the skin, increase its elasticity and elasticity.
- Creams and serums with peptides: Stimulate the production of collagen in the skin.
- Home peeling: Deleted the dead skin cells, stimulating its renewal and the production of collagen.
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Healthy lifestyle:
- Proper nutrition: Include products rich in protein, vitamin C, antioxidants and minerals in your diet.
- Sufficient amount of sleep: During sleep, the body is actively restored and synthesizes collagen.
- Regular physical exercises: Improve blood circulation and stimulate collagen production.
- Refusal of smoking: Smoking destroys collagen and worsens its quality.
- Ultraviolet radiation protection: Use the high SPF sunscreen to protect the skin from damage to ultraviolet radiation.
- Stress management: Chronic stress negatively affects the production of collagen. Practice relaxation methods such as yoga, meditation or breathing exercises.
VIII. Possible side effects and contraindications:
Reception of dietary supplements with collagen is usually safe, but in some cases side effects may occur:
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Allergic reactions: In people with allergies to fish, beef or chicken, allergic reactions to collagen obtained from these sources may occur.
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Stomach disorders: In rare cases, the intake of collagen can cause stomach disorders, such as bloating, nausea or diarrhea.
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Increasing blood calcium levels: When taking high doses of collagen, the level of calcium in the blood may increase.
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Interaction with drugs: Collagen can interact with some drugs such as anticoagulants.
Contraindications to receive collagen:
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Individual intolerance to collagen.
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Pregnancy and period of breastfeeding (not enough research).
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Kidney diseases (in high doses).
Before taking a dietary supplement with collagen, you need to consult a doctor, especially if you have any diseases or you take other medicines.
IX. Conclusion
Collagen is an important protein for the health and beauty of hair and nails. Reception of dietary supplements with collagen can help strengthen hair and nails, improve their structure and appearance, as well as stimulate their growth. When choosing a dietary supplement with collagen, it is necessary to take into account the type of collagen, the form of release, the presence of additional components, consumer reviews and the doctor’s recommendations. It is also important to include in your diet products rich in collagen or stimulating its production and lead a healthy lifestyle. Before taking a dietary supplement with a collagen, consult a doctor.