Over the years the collagen market has been steadily growing and not just in the UK. European and American consumers, too, have opened up to the benefits of regular collagen consumption, creating a global market valued at USD 9.76 billion in 2023.
In the UK, the collagen industry is poised for growth at a CAGR of 6.65% (forecast period 2023-2028). By 2028 expect to see the collagen market in the United Kingdom valued at USD 37.9 million, up from its 2023 valuation of USD 26.81 million.
So what’s drawing the UK population to consume collagen? Several factors. People are drawn to the promise of collagen’s beauty-from-within claim of improving nail, skin, and hair health. Instead of frittering away thousands of pounds on creams, serums, and lotions that don’t seem to yield satisfactory results, they are turning to something nourishing and helpful to the body like collagen powders and drinks.
Collagen also has seen significant applications in sports nutrition. There is a lot of research (past and ongoing) that seems to point to the benefits of collagen consumption in faster recovery from injury and grueling training regimens for athletes. Even those involved in very active lifestyles may benefit from collagen consumption as it helps promote muscle formation and recovery after strenuous exercise.
Given that collagen levels in the body start to deplete from the time a person turns 20, collagen may also be consumed to help restore the body’s collagen levels. Research also points to the benefits of collagen for bone health, especially in older women. It may also play a role in strengthening muscles and tendons to prevent falls in older populations. Falls are a leading cause of death in the UK for seniors over 75.
Top Reasons For Collagen’s Popularity In The UK
Collagen has become a buzzword in the UK, with more people recognising its benefits for health and beauty. From improving skin elasticity to supporting joint health, this protein is now a key ingredient in many supplements and skincare products. But what exactly makes collagen so popular? Let’s explore the top reasons behind its growing demand.
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Beauty-from-within (Nutri Cosmetics)
The beauty-from-within trend has grown in popularity over the past decade and has massive appeal among current consumers. One report noted that there were 57 times more beauty supplemental products in Q4 2023 than in Q1 2021 in the United Kingdom!
Collagen supplements are an essential part of the Nutri cosmetics industry. Given that negative dietary and environmental changes have increased hair-related problems like hair fall, premature greying, hair thinning, and hair loss, consumers are looking for effective solutions that can tackle these issues. For them, collagen with some proven benefits, seems to be the answer. While it may not be a direct component of hair, collagen is among the proteins that facilitate the formation and nourishment of healthy hair.
But there’s more to collagen than improving your locks. Collagen, aided by vitamin C, helps to repair skin and nourish brittle nails back to health. It may help to increase skin hydration and plumpness of the skin by increasing collagen density. It improves skin elasticity and may help reduce the appearance of wrinkles. Collagen supplements are now added with Vitamin C, Biotin, or Hyaluronic Acid for a more impactful dosage.
The integration of collagen into both beauty and wellness routines, from supplements to skincare products, highlights its versatile role in promoting healthier, more youthful skin. This holistic approach ensures collagen remains a staple in self-care regimens across the UK.
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Sports Nutrition
The use of collagen in the sports industry goes back to 2016 when Keith Baar (professor at the University of California, Davis,) was testing the effects of proline and glycine (2 major components of collagen) on a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), a key ligament that stabilises the knee.
He found that the ligament began to strengthen because of proline and glycine which led Baar to suggest that injured athletes could benefit by consuming hydrolysed collagen which is a simpler, easily-digestible form of collagen. Baar was working with NBA athletes at that time and found remarkable results when administering collagen to athletes with injuries, including one case where they were able to reverse a hole in an athlete’s tendon!
Baar began advising athletes like table tennis players, runners, and rugby players about the benefits of collagen in strengthening their tired tendons and cartilage. Eventually, a nutritionist for England Rugby started it for the Rugby players who gave a lot of positive feedback.
Collagen supplements are marketed to athletes and sports enthusiasts for the role they may play in helping muscle recovery after strenuous games or training sessions.
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Delaying Ageing and Age-Related Concerns
Seniors over the age of 75 are prone to fall-related injuries according to prominent charity Age UK. Older people are more prone to falls as ageing reduces collagen production, causing muscles and tendons to stiffen and absorb shock less effectively. Scientists at Liverpool John Moores University are conducting a clinical trial to determine if collagen supplements can improve muscle and tendon function, reducing the risk of falls.
Scientists are exploring whether collagen can help treat osteoarthritis, a common joint disease affecting 10% of men and 18% of women over 60. Currently, treatment options are limited to exercise, painkillers, or joint replacement surgery, as there is no cure. Studies suggest hydrolysed collagen might help repair damaged joints. A 2018 trial with 120 people found that some taking collagen experienced less pain and improved mobility.
Unlike the popular opinion that collagen is just a product to improve hair, skin, and nails, the vast implications of this protein are only just being uncovered, and reveal its benefits in several aspects of life.
Wrapping Up
Collagen’s popularity continues to grow as consumers seek scientifically backed products that deliver real benefits. Manufacturers are meeting this demand by investing in research and ensuring transparency in their processes, building trust with their audience. As the market grows, collagen supplements have firmly secured their place in the lives of those striving for a healthier and more radiant self.
Reference Links
https://nutraceuticalbusinessreview.com/market-growth-rooted-in-science-collagen-supplements-for
https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/vegan-collagen-market-report
https://www.innovamarketinsights.com/trends/supplement-trends-in-europe/
