Collagen to biotin: beauty supplements are hot, do they work?
Dull skin? Then you just take a pill for that. Is your hair not growing fast enough? Ditto. One step further? Then you can also take a pill to protect your skin from the sun.
But do those beauty supplements really do what they promise? Some dermatologists explain.
Biotin
Undoubtedly one of the most popular supplements is biotin or vitamin B8, according to some the solution against thinning hair and the secret weapon to stimulate hair growth.
“Many people use biotin to make their nails and hair grow faster, but there is, unfortunately, no conclusive scientific evidence for this,” says Lauren Ploch of the Georgia Dermatology and Skin Centre
Collagen
Collagen is a protein that is an important part of your skin. As you get older, your body makes less collagen, so the elasticity of your skin deteriorates and fine lines become visible more quickly. It is not surprising that so many people are tempted to supplement their collagen with drinks or supplements that contain the protein.
But does it really work? “Unfortunately, the intake of collagen via a drink or supplement is usually ineffective because it is largely broken down by your digestive system,” says doctor Gabriel Martinez-Diaz of MD Aesthetics & Dermatology. “Until there is scientific evidence, I advise my patients to protect their skin from the sun,”
Sun protection supplements
Several studies show that Polypodium Leucotomos, a fern extract that is contained in Heliocare capsules, helps to protect you from the sun. But does that mean that you no longer have to apply yourself? Absolutely not! “The capsules are certainly not an alternative to sunscreens.
Looking up the shade, staying out of the sun between 12 and 15h and applying sun protection cream are the most important ways to prevent sun damage.
People who have skin problems as a result of exposure to the sun can take such a capsule to be extra protected”, says medical and cosmetic dermatologist Dhaval Bhanusali.
