If you’re taking part in Veganuary or are switching to a vegetarian diet, then you’ve likely had to put some supplements aside for now

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body and is responsible for the youthful appearance of skin’s elasticity and its softness.

However, most on the market are derived from bovine connective tissue or fish so, obviously, taking the original form of this supplement is not vegan or vegetarian.

The good news is, you already have this protein in your own body, and if you continue eating a healthy diet, you can help restore it.

After the age of 20, the body’s collagen production is reduced by 1% per year. Some contributing factors might include environmental pollution, alcohol consumption, increased blood sugar, Vitamin C deficiency, sun exposure, and smoking.

So, if you want to give yourself a little boost, here are some of our favourite vegan and vegetarian options on the market:

Hush&Hush €82.50

Hush & Hush will be launching its innovative vegetarian Collagen+ powder this month.

We're in the midst of trialling this one out, so when we have some results we will be back with more information - but here's what we know so far.

It is made with hydrolysed eggshell membrane to promote healthier skin, hair, and nails and the brand describes it as “beauty at its most potent”.

Hush & Hush’s breakthrough formula includes three types of collagens (while animal-sourced collagen only has two) and all nine amino acids, completing the protein link. With hydrolysed peptides for increased absorption and clinically studied ingredients, Collagen+ is a true powerhouse of a supplement. Truly, collagen without compromise.

Its benefits include:

• Replenish collagen for a more youthful appearance
• Healthier hair, skin & nails
• Hydrolyzed peptides for increased absorption
• Collagen types I, V, X with all 9 amino acids
• Clinically studied ingredients

For a list of Hush&Hush stockists in Ireland, click here.

Swedish Collagen Vegan €32.95

I tried the Swedish Collagen products over a period of six months alongside some of the Swedish Nutra vitamin supplements in 2022 and noticed a big difference in my hair and nails in particular.

As someone who dyes their hair regularly and gets shellac every few weeks, both were in need of some serious TLC.

The Swedish Collagen vegan powder is derived from Vegan sources, so it's a great choice if you're avoiding animal derived products.

The amino acids come from pumpkin seeds, corn and Lentils and it boasts 10,000 mg of Vegan Collagen per serving.

The Beauty Chef Collagen Inner Beauty Boost €36.10

Described as “drinkable skin care”, this beauty-boosting, bio-fermented probiotic elixir has been scientifically formulated by The Beauty Chef to increase collagen production, support healthy skin structure and make your complexion smoother and firmer from the inside out. 

According to the description online: "Collagen Inner Beauty Boost stars a super-charged, concentrated blend of certified organic maqui berry, acai, papaya, blueberry, goji berry and pomegranate powders, which are packed with skin-boosting nutrients. 

"These are combined with grape seed extract, zinc and vitamin C, which unite to enhance your complexions elasticity for a plumped, radiant result. The potency of all the ingredients have been enhanced by The Beauty Chefs exclusive Flora Culture fermentation process, which makes the nutrients more bio-available and better absorbed by the bodys cells."

This product is free from artificial colours, sugar and gluten and is suitable for vegans.

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