One of the reasons we develop signs of aging is because of collagen depletion, which starts in the late 20s or early 30s and only continues to accelerate. With the loss of collagen, the skin starts to lose its firmness and develops cellulite, loose skin, and fine lines.
The primary building block for the skin is the collagen. This is the major component of connective tissue in the human body that gives skin a youthful, healthy appearance and it is the key builder of healthy skin, muscle, tendons, joints, bones, and other tissue. Within the body, collagen goes through a series of steps to break down its long-chain proteins into its original amino acids, which are then absorbed and used for collagen synthesis throughout the body.
On the other hand, gelatin helps stimulate new and non-fragmented collagen, while restoring skin’s durability. This is actually a form of hydrolyzed collagen and it is very important for the process of renewing skin cells that can also help block the skin from UV light damage, therefore protecting it from free radical damage, wrinkles and potentially skin cancer.
Both collagen and gelatin have similar benefits because they contain the same amino acids, but their uses are slightly different and some might digest gelatin a bit more easily then collagen. Consuming gelatin, which means taking collagen directly, can help improve the appearance of the skin thanks to its positive effects on skin’s health and cellular rejuvenation.
Additionally, to convert collagen into gelatin, several processes are used that break down collagen’s intermolecular bonds and release certain amino acids. Extraction of gelatin in food manufacturing is usually done by using hot water and acid solutions to hydrolyze collagen into gelatin. But, like with most foods or supplements, the less processing it goes through the better it is for the skin’s health.