Everything you need to know about Vegan Collagen, and how it differs from animal-derived collagen. 

Veganism isn't exactly a new phenomenon – vegan foods and lifestyles have been around for a while, but vegan Collagen in skincare? That is a newer conversation and one that we need to dive into. 

To sum up, Vegan Collagen alternatives have been growing rapidly in popularity, as they offer a cruelty-free and more sustainable alternative to traditional collagen sourced from animals. But what exactly is Vegan Collagen, and how does it differ from its animal-derived counterpart? To understand the role of vegan collagen in your skincare, first let's review what Collagen does for your skin. 

What is collagen and why is it so important for our skin? 

Collagen, a protein naturally present in our skin, acting as a ‘scaffolding’ that helps maintain firmness and elasticity. That is to say, it’s the ‘glue’ that binds our skin together and makes it appear plumper and more elastic.  

“Collagen is more abundant when you are younger and depletes gradually as we age. You lose approximately 1% of your natural collagen supplies every year after the age of 20. This is where collagen infused skincare can help!” says skincare expert Charlotte Connoley. 

“Hormonal changes can also affect your collagen production. Studies show that women’s skin loses about 30% of its collagen during the first five years of menopause. Collagen is found in the dermis layer of the skin and is responsible for skin strength, elasticity, and resilience. So when this natural Collagen starts to degrade due to ageing or environmental factors, it leads to fine lines and wrinkles.” 

So how does Collagen skincare work?  

To sum up, Charlotte explains “Collagen-infused skincare products work as ‘cosmetic collagen’ and act on the outer layers of the skin’s epidermis to help boost skin elasticity and reveal a smoother, plumper looking complexion.” 

What is Vegan Collagen? 

Vegan Collagen is derived from plant sources rather than animals, making it a more sustainable and environmentally friendly option for skincare. Traditionally, collagen has been extracted from animal connective tissues and bones, primarily sourced from cows (bovine collagen) or fish (marine collagen). However, advancements in ingredient technology have enabled the development of high-performance plant-based alternatives, which mimic the action of traditional collagen on the skin and deliver the same cosmetic benefits.  

Additionally, Vegan Collagen can be derived from a variety of sources, and are generally extracted from plant-based sources such as soy, wheat, or other botanicals rich in amino acids. “These plant-derived ingredients are carefully extracted and processed to mimic the functions of animal-based collagen, providing similar benefits for the skin,” says Charlotte.  

As a result, the Super Facialist Vegan Collagen range has been created with an innovative form of plant-based Collagen derived from the sap of the Acacia tree. Acacia sap is released naturally from the tree as a protectant and disinfectant and has amazing skin benefits. Because this sap excretion is a naturally occurring process it is a very sustainable way to obtain Vegan Collagen. “Our Acacia derived ingredient delivers all the amazing cosmetic benefits of traditional animal-derived collagen, but in a more sustainable way!” Charlotte explains.  

Animal-Derived Collagen vs Vegan Collagen 

While both animal-derived and vegan collagen are natural ingredients that can help enhance skin elasticity, their main difference lies in their origin. Animal collagen is sourced from cows or fish, whereas Vegan Collagen is 100% plant-based. Despite being structurally and chemically distinct from animal-derived collagen, Vegan Collagen can offer the equivalent skin benefits. Its primary advantage lies in being cruelty-free and vegan-friendly with elevated sustainable.  

Skin Benefits of Vegan Collagen 

Ideal for those seeking cruelty-free and plant-based options, Vegan Collagen offers numerous skin benefits. The Super Facialist Firm + Lift range has been specifically formulated with this ingredient to address early and existing signs of ageing to help reveal plump, hydrated and firmer looking skin. 

Key benefits of Vegan Collagen include: 

• 100% plant-based  
• Helps enhance skin elasticity  
• Promotes skin smoothness 
• Helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles 
• Can help restore a youthful looking appearance 

Does Vegan Collagen REALLY work? 

Skincare expert, Charlotte explains “the short answer is yes! Vegan Collagen can replicate the same skin benefits as traditional animal-derived collagen, while being more sustainable.”

Who is Vegan Collagen For?

It is suitable for all skin types and is especially suited to those wanting to target early and existing signs of aging. Whether you're aiming to minimise the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles or simply wish to preserve a youthful looking complexion, Vegan Collagen is a great skincare staple. 

So is it Worth Trying?

In conclusion, Vegan Collagen represents a significant advancement in skincare, offering a cruelty-free alternative that delivers comparable benefits to traditional Collagen skincare. With its ability to promote skin elasticity while prioritising a more sustainable ingredient approach, this is a fantastic skincare ingredient to incorporate into your daily routine.

So why not give it a go? Here’s a roundup from our latest Vegan Collagen Lift + Firm range: 

Vegan Collagen Rejuvenating Gel Cleanser [£12] 

Firstly, start your routine with a cleanse. Lift away daily impurities and reveal thoroughly cleansed and refreshed skin. Additionally, this cleanser is enriched with skin-conditioning Hibiscus extract plus a powerful vegan marine bio-complex, including Seaweed and Hyaluronic Acid, to help provide immediate hydration to skin. 

Vegan Collagen Plumping Serum [£20] 

Secondly, use a super charged serum after cleansing to help recapture the appearance of a fresher, younger looking skin. As a result, it will help promote skin smoothness and elasticity, with Vegan Collagen plus a Marine Bio-Complex, designed to help provide immediate hydration.  

"This targeted silky smooth serum is a brilliant way to plump my skin before applying day or night moisturiser, leaving my skin super smooth and soft. I love the texture of this serum as it's not sticky and instead sinks into the skin quickly.”- Charlotte Connoley, Resident Skincare Expert. 

Vegan Collagen Super Smooth Day Cream [£20] 

After that, deliver daily hydration with this buttery smooth cream. This formula combines a blend of anti-ageing Tetrapeptide, Hibiscus extract, as well as Copper to help diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. 

Vegan Collagen SleepSmart Night Cream [£22] 

Lastly, revitalise your skin overnight with our revolutionary formula. Powered by our ‘world first’ Resync SleepSmart ComplexTM to help reveal rejuvenated and hydrated skin. 

“I love the science behind this product! This super clever night cream is boosted with the Resync SleepSmart Complex™ which means it works in sync with the skin's circadian rhythm for a smoother hydrated, and more youthful appearance.” -Charlotte Connoley, Resident Skincare Expert.

Shop the full Vegan Collagen range here.

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