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As editors, we get pitched hundreds of products a week, so it’s easy to spot trends materializing within our inboxes. One such trend is the recent resurgence of collagen supplements—certainly not a new concept, but one that brands seem to be hopping aboard. Perhaps it’s a response to the noted loss of collagen in our complexions as we spend more time staring at our faces on Zoom calls; but more likely, it’s simply the science that backs up the importance of healthy collagen levels, not just for our skin, but for our joint and muscle health. But there’s a wave of controversy that comes with collagen supplements: it’s unclear whether or not the collagen, in powder or pill form, is actually driving to the key areas we need it, as it’s being broken down by stomach acid and thus not absorbed into the bloodstream. Physicians also note a general lack of studies to support the purported benefits of ingesting manufactured collagen. So while there are no known side effects—and therefore little risk—to adding collagen into your daily mix, there may not be any real benefits either. That’s where Rae Wellness comes in: With its non-GMO, completely vegan line of “collagen boosting” supplements that help aid your body’s natural collagen production (meaning there’s no actual collagen within the supplement), you’re supporting a system that’s already in place rather than falsely adding to your current supply.
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What Is It
Available in both pill and powder form, Rae Wellness Vegan Collagen Boost utilizes the power of plant-derived “collagen boosters” packed with the amino acids lysine, proline, and glycine, which are essential for collagen synthesis. It’s an important consideration as we age since—hard truth—we begin to lose collagen as early as our 20s, so Rae Wellness’s ingredients help re-calibrate the collagen production line, providing better structure for our skin, hair, bones, muscles, ligaments, and tendons. It’s also got bamboo and artichoke, both of which are packed with vitamin C, which is vital for forming and storing collagen.
The powder is available in unflavored and honey citrus variations to mix into your smoothies and beverages, or you can take it in capsule form. However you choose to ingest, consistency is key—a once-daily dosage is recommended to see results.
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Why I Need to Have It
As I near my 30th birthday, I’ve already noticed a lack of plumpness in my complexion, especially in my under-eye area, and my joints crack after a workout more than they ever have. A dermatologist recently reminded me that “prevention is far easier than treatment,” so I’m all about proactively targeting issues before they arise (or get worse), and bolstering my collagen seems like a good box to check on my growing list. I already take a prenatal vitamin daily to help with my thinning hair, so I’ve added Vegan Collagen Boost to that daily vitamin schedule (which should also help with my hair conundrum). I’m looking forward to monitoring any differences in my body and appearance after routinely adding a scoop of VCB to my morning beverages.
I’m also intrigued by the brand’s ethos: The wellness industry is saturated with products, and considering the impact on my physical health, I want to be sure I’m aligning with a brand that’s more than just “wellness,” but more so a true advocate for the consumer’s wellbeing. Rae champions the idea of self-love, beyond the nuance of self-care, and choosing evidence-based products sans unnecessary fillers that support your health for a more radiant lifestyle. What’s more, the brand also gives 5% of all revenue to Girls Inc., a nonprofit that inspires all girls to be strong, smart, and bold through direct service and advocacy.
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Where to Get It
While the wellness space often gives way to pricey SKUs, Vegan Collagen Boost is just $15 (for both the powders and capsules) and is available at Target. You can also shop it on raewellness.co.