Glow from within: The best beauty edibles on the market right now | The Canberra Times
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The skincare industry has thrown us everything from serums and scrubs to LED face masks and microneedling tools that promise a spa-level experience at home.
They’ve given us jade rollers, sheet masks, snail mucin, gels, creams, retinols and serums, foams and chemical peels, but have you ever considered enhancing your routine from the inside out with a beauty edible?
A beauty edible is exactly as its name suggests – it’s a beauty supplement (in liquid, tablet, gummy or powder form) that can be ingested to help with beauty concerns relating to skin, hair and nail health.
Beauty edibles can deliver results, but their effectiveness varies based on the ingredients, the quality of the product and individual factors like diet, lifestyle and skin type.
In this article, we explore the seven standout products from the brands leading the charge with ingestible beauty products and review them based on factors like their effectiveness, ingredients, taste, value for money and user feedback.
Here are our top seven beauty supplement products:
What is edible beauty?
Edible beauty refers to the concept of consuming foods, beverages and supplements that are specifically designed to improve skin health, enhance physical appearance, and promote overall wellness.
Unlike traditional topical skincare products, edible beauty products focus on nourishing the body internally, under the belief that beauty starts from within.
Common edible beauty ingredients include:
- Collagen to support skin elasticity, hair, nail and joint health.
- Antioxidants like Vitamin C and E to protect the skin from oxidative stress – which is when your body has too many harmful molecules (free radicals) and not enough defenses (antioxidants).
- Probiotics and prebiotics to support gut health, which is increasingly linked to skin health.
- Hyaluronic acid for skin hydration.
BEST FOR PLUMP SKIN
THE BEAUTY CHEF PLUMPERS
The Beauty Chef Plumpers are the newest addition to the beauty supplement range from The Beauty Chef and had an impressive launch, selling 20,000 units in the first week and generating $1 million in revenue, according to a 7NEWS article.
Plumpers are collagen chewable tablets designed to support skin health, particularly focusing on skin elasticity, hydration and overall complexion enhancement.
These tablets contain hydrolysed collagen peptides (Verisol™) which are known for their ability to boost collagen production in the skin.
They also contain hyaluronic acid and a potent Japanese postbiotic, Lactobacillus plantarum L-137 which work together to hydrate the skin and support immune function.
The chewables come in three flavours, including Kakadu plum and berry, orange and turmeric and chocolate, and are promoted as a convenient and enjoyable way to maintain skin health on the go.
Pros
- Convenience
- Gut-friendly and immune-boosting
- Science-backed ingredients
Cons
- Pricey
- Not suitable for pregnant or lactating women
- Not vegan-friendly
BEST FOR CLEAR SKIN
HUM Nutrition Skin Squad Pre+Probiotic
HUM Nutrition Skin Squad Pre+Probiotic is a dietary tablet supplement specifically formulated to support skin health by balancing the gut microbiome.
It contains a blend of nine strains of probiotics (containing 40 billion CFU) and a prebiotic called konjac root.
The combination of prebiotics and probiotics is designed to promote a healthy gut environment, which in turn is intended to support clearer, healthier skin.
The product is particularly aimed at those with (non-cystic) acne-prone skin as it targets the gut-skin axis – an emerging area of research that links gut health with skin conditions like acne.
The supplement is vegan, non-GMO and gluten-free, and does not contain artificial colours, flavours, or preservatives, making it suitable for people with dietary restrictions.
Pros
- Inclusion of prebiotics
- High potency
- Clean formulation
Cons
- Cost
- Delayed results
- Gut-skin connection is still being researched
BEST FOR COLLAGEN PROTECTION
Moon Juice Collagen Protect
Moon Juice Collagen Protect is a vegan, plant-based creamer powder supplement designed to support natural collagen production, skin hydration, and elasticity,
Unlike traditional collagen supplements derived from animal sources, this product contains plant-derived ingredients that help the body maintain its own collagen levels.
The key ingredients include silver ear mushroom, hyaluronic acid, and tocos (rice bran solubles). These ingredients work together to promote healthy skin, hair and nails by enhancing moisture retention and supporting skin structure from within.
The powder is unflavoured, so it is easy to add to smoothies, coffee or other beverages. However, some users report a slight earthy taste or grainy texture which may be off-putting for some people.
Pros
- Vegan-friendly
- Versatile and easy to use
- Hydration support
Cons
- Expensive
- Results may vary
- Earthy taste
BEST FOR JOINT HEALTH
Vital Proteins Marine Collagen
Vital Proteins Marine Collagen is a premium, hydrolysed collagen supplement derived from the scales of wild-caught, non-GMO white fish.
This product is rich in Type I collagen, which is the most abundant type of collagen in the human body and plays a crucial role in maintaining the health of skin, hair, nails, bones and joints.
The collagen peptides in this supplement are highly bioavailable, meaning they are easily absorbed and utilised by the body.
In terms of supporting joint and bone health, collagen is a key component of joint cartilage, and supplementing with marine collagen supports joint mobility to help reduce discomfort.
The unflavoured powder can be easily mixed into a variety of beverages and recipes without altering the taste. However, some people report that the product smells a bit like a swamp, so it may be better sampled on its own.
This product also free from gluten, dairy and artificial ingredients, making it suitable for a range of dietary needs.
Pros
- High bioavailability
- Sustainably sourced
- Free from additives
Cons
- Price
- Limited to Type I Collagen
- No vegan option
BEST FOR IMMUNITY
Olly Extra Strength Elderberry Gummies
Olly Extra Strength Elderberry Gummies are a dietary supplement designed to support immune health.
These gummies are formulated with elderberry, a fruit known for its antioxidant content and ability to support immune function.
The gummies also contain other immune-supporting ingredients like Vitamin C and Zinc. Vitamin C is essential for the proper functioning of the immune system, while Zinc plays a key role in immune cell function and the body’s defense mechanisms.
Each serving of the Olly Extra Strength Elderberry Gummies provides a potent dose of these key ingredients, making them a convenient and tasty way to help support immunity, particularly during cold and flu season.
However, this does not mean it is capable of curing or preventing disease.
Pros
- Immune support
- High potency
- Tasty and convenient
Cons
- Contains added sugars
- Efficacy inconclusive
- Higher calorie content
BEST FOR ANTI-AGEING
Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides
Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides is a dietary supplement made from hydrolysed bovine collagen, primarily sourced from grass-fed, pasture-raised cows.
This collagen is broken down into smaller peptides that make it easier to absorb and utilise. The supplement is designed to support overall health with a focus on enhancing skin elasticity, hydration, and reducing wrinkles.
In addition to skin benefits, collagen also supports hair, nails, joints and bones. It also includes amino acids such as glycine, proline and hydroxyproline, which are important for collagen production in the body.
The product is unflavoured, meaning it can be mixed into a range of beverages, or consumed in water on its own. However, some people report a slight taste or gritty texture when mixed into water or lighter-flavoured beverages.
Some people may also experience mild digestive discomfort such as bloating or gas when first introducing collagen peptides into their diet. This is due to the body’s process of breaking down and absorbing the collagen peptides. However, this response can depend on the individual.
Pros
- Easily absorbed by body
- Unflavoured
- No additives like sweeteners
Cons
- Cost
- Animal-derived
- Slight taste and texture
BEST SKIN HYDRATION
Reserveage Collagen Replenish Chews
Reserveage Collagen Replenish Capsules are a dietary supplement designed to support skin elasticity, firmness and overall hydration.
These chews are formulated with Verisol Bioactive Collagen Peptides, which are clinically studied to help improve the skin’s appearance by reducing the depth of wrinkles and promoting collagen production.
In addition to collagen peptides, the tablets also contain hyaluronic acid and Vitamin C. Hyaluronic acid is known for its ability to retain moisture in the skin, while Vitamin C plays a crucial role in collagen synthesis and provides antioxidant protection against free radicals.
This product is intended to be a convenient way to help maintain skin health.
Pros
- Clinically studied ingredients
- Convenient and tasty
- Supports skin hydration
Cons
- Sugar content
- Price
- Limited to skin benefits
Benefits
The benefits of edible beauty supplements depend on the product ingredients, quality and efficacy. Benefits of these products can include:
- Improved skin health: Many edible beauty products contain ingredients to promote collagen production, which can lead to firmer, more hydrated looking skin with fewer wrinkles.
- Convenience: These supplements often come in forms like powders, gummies, or chews, making them easy to incorporate into an everyday routine.
- Comprehensive approach: By working from the inside out, edible beauty can complement topical skincare routines to provide a more holistic approach to beauty and health.
- Overall health: Ingredients like probiotics can benefit the skin, improve digestion and immunity.
Risks of edible beauty supplements
While the brands listed above are well-known and highly rated, there are also associated risks to consider. These can include:
- Digestive issues: Some individuals may experience digestive discomfort, such as bloating or gas, when starting new supplements, especially those containing collagen or probiotics.
- Allergies and sensitivities: It’s important to be mindful of ingredients in beauty supplements as they can contain allergens (e.g. fish-derived collagen) or additives that may cause sensitivity.
- Overconsumption: Some beauty supplements like gummies are designed to have an appealing taste, which could tempt an individual to overconsume them, resulting in potential nutrient imbalances or unwanted side effects.
- Quality and efficacy: The supplement industry is less regulated than pharmaceuticals, so the quality and efficacy of products can vary.
- Cost: High-quality beauty supplements can be expensive, and long-term use is often required to see results.
It’s important to always choose reputable brands and consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.
Conclusion
The edible beauty industry is growing, a popular trend led predominantly by scientific research into the correlation between gut and skin health.
The idea behind every one of these products is that nutrition and skincare can be combined to enhance one’s appearance from the inside out.
While supplements like collagen peptides, hyaluronic acid and antioxidants can provide benefits for skin health, it’s important to remember that they work best when used as part of a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle.
As with any supplement, it’s essential to understand the science behind these products (which is sometimes limited), set realistic expectations, and consult a healthcare provider to ensure they align with your individual health needs.
Frequently asked questions
What are the best supplements for skin health?
Key vitamins and minerals for skin health include vitamins A, C, E, K, zinc, and selenium. Supplements such as collagen peptides, hyaluronic acid, and probiotics can also support skin elasticity, hydration, and overall appearance.
What is the most important supplement for skin health?
While all the mentioned supplements are beneficial for skin health, vitamin C is crucial for collagen production. Collagen provides structural support and firmness to the skin.
Do collagen supplements really work for skin?
Numerous studies suggest that collagen supplements can improve skin elasticity, reduce wrinkles, and enhance skin moisture levels. However, it’s important to choose high-quality supplements with clinically proven benefits.
Can probiotics help improve skin health?
Yes, probiotics support a healthy gut microbiome, which influences skin health. Probiotics can reduce inflammation, improve skin barrier function, and help treat skin conditions like acne and eczema.
How often should I take supplements?
A: Follow the recommended dosage on the supplement label. Consistent intake over several weeks is typically required to see noticeable results.
Where can I find reputable skin supplements?
A: Look for reputable brands that provide third-party testing and certification. Purchase supplements from established retailers or healthcare practitioners to ensure their authenticity and quality.
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