Our Founder Nina Lambrakis answers everything you want to know about Oceanglo, Revive’s marine collagen.
Glowing ,Radiant , hydrated skin, split proof nails, thick hair. The best collagen powder in South africa offering real results backed by science and clinical trials. But how does this anti-ageing powerhouse work? What happens on the inside that shows up on the outside ? Our founder answers everything you’ve ever wanted to know about collagen supplementation.
Nina created Revive after experiencing first hand the transformative effects ingestible beauty had on her – having suffered long term with IBS and Postpartum hair loss . She was introduced to marine collagen in 2017 after the birth of her first daughter by a friend who had sent her some from aboard. She noticed a change in her skin and nails within a matter of weeks, but what really stood out for her was when she realised her hair loss had drastically lessened within 8 weeks of use and this was so evident her stylist picked up the change. So why does marine collagen have these transformative effects on the skin , hair and nails? Nina Explains.
What is collagen?
Nina: Collagen is a structural protein naturally produced by our bodies . It acts as the building blocks in our bodies , giving our skin , hair and nails their structure, elasticity and firmness- its like the glue that holds everything together . The rate that our bodies produce collagen starts to gradually decline around our mid 20’s this is when we start to see the early signs of ageing – for example fine lines , open pores and somewhat duller looking skin. Its at this time where collagen supplementation becomes so important.
What is Marine Collagen?
Nina: Marine Collagen is a collagen supplement derived and extracted from the skin of fish. We use the skin that would otherwise be discarded as waste by the food industry. These fish skins are put through a process called hydrolysation, this transforms it into collagen peptides.
Through hydrolysation we are able to take our raws from about 300,000 Daltons to below 2000 Daltons . What does this actually mean ? Well the smaller the collagen peptide ( Lower molecular weight), the easier it is for your body to absorb. Higher absorption means it’s more effective in replenishing and restoring collagen to a deeper layer of skin, hair and nails. This is when you start to see significant results.
Marine collagen contains type 1 collagen – the collagen type found in our skin and makes up 75% of skin – this is a peptide specific for skin, beauty and anti ageing benefits.
Revive’s marine collagen is made with a range of fish species to complete the complex amino acid composition necessary to deliver clinical results and lessen the impact of biodiversity implications.
What are the differences between marine and bovine collagen?
Nina: The most obvious differences would be the source of collagen. Marine collagen is extracted from the skin of fish and our bovine collagen is extracted from the hides and or joints of grass fed cattle.
Our bovine collagen contains higher amounts of type 3 collagen and lower amounts of type 1 and Whilst bovine collagen still has benefits for skin and nails its particularly beneficial for gut and digestive health, bone and joint health and your blood vessels.
When looking at the amino composition of both , these differ significantly and therefore work differently in the body.
Studies have confirmed that marine collagen is absorbed by the body 1.5 x more than any other source.
Breaking this down , it comes to personal choice and preference , one should consider the benefits you are wanting to achieve from collagen supplementation. If you are looking for a peptide that targets the skin and addresses the signs of skin ageing, increases collagen and hyaluronic production marine collagen is the better choice . if you are looking for a great wellness supplement that will focus on gut health, joint health and improve your quality of sleep , our bovine collagen will be an ideal choice. Can you use both – Absolutely!
How does collagen supplementation work?
Nina: Once ingested, our oceanglo marine collagen is absorbed and distributed into the bloodstream, via the blood vessels, to a deeper layer of skin called the dermis. Once it reaches the collagen matrix it stimulates fibroblast proliferation, generating the production of fresh collagen. When you ingest hydrolysed collagen peptides, you are increasing the pool of specific amino acids that are needed by cells in the body to produce collagen. As a completely natural protein, marine collagen is an effective solution to visibly improve the appearance and health of skin, hair and nails.
When will I start to see results?
Nina: Clinical trials of our marine collagen show long-term skin benefits with daily use. After 8 to 12 weeks of consistent supplementation, our marine collagen is proven to increase skin firmness and elasticity , and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. 70% recorded significant improvement to crows feet wrinkles ,60% recorded significant improvement to wrinkles around the mouth and 68% experienced increased skin hydration. Consistency is key to success when it comes to ingestibles.
When did you see results?
Nina: After 6 weeks of regular collagen supplementation, I noticed a dramatic decrease in the amount of hair loss I was experiencing at that time. After about 8 weeks, my nails were strong and glossy and I could say good bye to tips . At 10 weeks my skin had a noticeable glow and looked fresh and rejuvenated. I’d never experienced such incredible results that were long-lasting from any ingestible I had taken in the past and this is when it became my mission to source the very best collagen with the lowest molecular weight possible.
What does bioavailable mean?
Nina: Bioavailability is a measure of the body’s ability to absorb an ingredient. The more bioavailable a supplement is, the more efficiently the body can put it to work to produce results. Our collagen peptide powder is highly bioavailable with an absorption rate of above 93%.
What happens if I stop taking marine collagen?
Nina: Once you stop taking collagen consistently, the body’s collagen production will slowly revert back to where you were before you started supplementing.
Is there such a thing as vegan or plant-based collagen?
Nina: At this stage, there are no plant-based sources of collagen, its a false term used for vegan products that contain actives which may assist in the appearance of skin increase hydration but will not directly assist in producing and stimulating fresh collagen production.
Where is our marine collagen sourced?
Nina: We source our collagen responsibly from open-water farms in Europe as well as wild caught fish. These marine ecosystems are monitored to strict European Standards ensuring purity as well as minimal environmental impact. We use a range of specific fish species to complete the complex amino acid profile necessary to deliver clinical results from collagen supplementation.
Is our Oceanglo marine collagen sustainable?
Nina: As South Africa’s number one marine collagen brand, we are setting the industry benchmark for low-impact collagen sourcing. We source our Oceanglo marine collagen responsibly under the strict sustainability standards of Global G.A.P, The Aquaculture Stewardship Council and Best Aquaculture Practices. These internationally recognised agencies establish strict guidelines to ensure our suppliers are environmentally and socially responsible.
Can I take marine collagen when pregnant or breastfeeding?
Nina: Whilst many of our customers have been able to take our products throughout pregnancy and breastfeeding, clinical testing has only been done on non-pregnant women. Our formulations have been tested for quality and safety, however, we still advise speaking with your healthcare practitioner to check that our products are right for you. I personally was able to take marine collagen safely during my second pregnancy and while I was breastfeeding.
How many servings should I be taking every day?
Nina: Your supplement routine should be tailored to your specific needs. To protect youthful skin, thick hair and strong nails, we recommend a 5g serving a day. To combat the signs of ageing 10g a day. This can be taken in a single dose or split up into two doses daily.
Is there a maximum of how much collagen I should take in a day?
Nina: Many brands sell the tale of the “more collagen you take the faster you will see and notice results”. This couldn’t be further away from the truth. If you are consuming a high quality peptide such as Revive you would not need to take more than the recommended daily dose of 10 g per day and this is backed by clinical trials.
Can you overdose on collagen?
Nina: As with all things in life too much of something can result in a negative effect and the same goes with collagen supplementation. Even though collagen is a natural occurring protein found in the body one can consume too much and this shows up by causing an upset stomach, bloating and digestive irritations. Although it wont cause serious harm there is really no need to be consuming more than the recommended daily dose.
Can men take marine collagen?
Nina: Absolutely! There are no differences in the way our bodies absorb and benefit from supplementing with collagen.
And that’s a wrap ! We hope we’ve left you feeling more informed and confident to tailor a collagen routine to suit you.
