What is collagen and why your collagen supplement might not be working

What if everything we knew about collagen was incomplete?

For years, collagen supplements have been built on a simple idea: “If collagen declines as we age, we can counteract that by consuming more collagen.”

But a newly published peer-reviewed study in the renowned scientific journal Nature’s npj Aging suggests something very different, and far more interesting.

Researchers at ETH Zurich found that the body can’t actually use collagen the way people assume. Instead, consumed animal collagen will always be broken down into amino acids, and then only partially be taken up by the body to form new human collagen.

The researchers found that it is much more efficient to provide the body with a precise blend of the three naturally occurring amino acids that form collagen: glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline.

In human skin cells, the 3:1:1 amino acid ratio stimulated collagen gene expression up to 4× more than standard collagen peptides. This effect was consistent with benefits observed in model organisms and humans.

Understanding this new mechanism changes everything about how we think of collagen, why it declines, and what it really takes to rebuild it.

What is collagen and why is it important?

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body, making up around 30% of all protein. It’s built from 19 amino acids - with glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline forming the core structure. Together with essential nutrients such as vitamin C, zinc, copper, and manganese, these amino acids form strong, rope-like fibers that provide structure and support throughout the body.

Collagen is responsible for the strength and resilience of your skin, bones, muscles, joints, tendons, ligaments, blood vessels, and even your gut lining. In many ways, it acts as the “glue” that holds your body together.

When collagen levels are high, skin appears firm, smooth, and elastic; joints feel flexible; muscles recover faster; and your body maintains structural integrity. A healthy collagen network is central to both how youthful you look and how well you function.

Why does collagen decline with age?

Starting in your mid-20s, collagen production naturally declines by about 1–2% per year, and by your 60s, you may have lost up to half of your collagen reserve.

This is due to:

Reduced fibroblast activity (the cells that make collagen)
Increased collagen-degrading enzymes
Hormonal changes
Oxidative stress and inflammation

In women, this decline accelerates significantly during and after menopause due to the sharp drop in oestrogen, a hormone that helps regulate collagen synthesis.

Lifestyle factors (excess sun exposure, high-sugar diets, smoking, lack of sleep, chronic stress) also accelerate this decline, leading to wrinkles, dryness, joint stiffness, slower recovery, and a loss of skin firmness.

How collagen supports and transforms skin health

Your skin is composed of a variety of essential elements such as proteins, lipids (fats), water, and minerals that all work together like the intricate parts of a finely tuned machine. But among all these components, collagen stands out as the true secret to youthful skin. While lipids help lock in moisture and water keeps skin plump, it’s collagen that acts as the main foundation - the scaffolding that gives your skin its structure, strength, and elasticity.

Collagen loss naturally occurs while we age, and this is one of the main mechanisms of skin aging as when the dense network of collagen that is holding everything firm and in place weakens, the skin starts to sag, wrinkles occur, and we start to lose that firm, radiant glow.

Where do most collagen supplements fall short?

Collagen supplements have become popular for skin health, but not all collagen effectively supports collagen production. Many formulas simply provide protein without addressing what the body needs to build new collagen. Traditional collagen often falls short for 3 reasons:

1. Poor absorption
Whole collagen molecules from animals are too large to be absorbed directly by our cells. Even hydrolysed collagen has to be broken down into amino-acid fragments by the body, many of which are used as generic protein instead of activating collagen synthesis.

2. Lack of stimulation
Many supplements only provide raw protein but fail to actively stimulate your body’s own collagen-producing cells (fibroblasts). They deliver materials but don’t switch on the “factory” to build new collagen.

3. Missing essential co-factors
Collagen synthesis requires essential nutrients like Vitamin C and Zinc to work. These crucial co-factors are often missing from supplements, making them incomplete.

An effective collagen supplement must be bioavailable, biologically meaningful, and include the nutrients that activate collagen synthesis.

Learn what to look for in a collagen supplement here.

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The science of collagen activation

To rebuild strong, healthy collagen fibres that improve firmness, elasticity, and radiance, your body requires a precise combination of ingredients and biological signals.

Modern research shows that collagen synthesis depends on three core pillars:

1. Collagen building blocks (amino acids)
Collagen is made primarily from three amino acids: glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline - which together make up over half of collagen’s structure. Most modern diets today, especially plant-based diets, provide very little of them, as they are mainly found in animal skin and connective tissues.

Traditionally, supplements tried to solve this by offering whole collagen peptides, but a newly published peer-reviewed study in Nature’s npj Aging has made the breakthrough discovery that your body isn’t actually able to use whole collagen molecules effectively.

Instead, it requires a precise 3:1:1 ratio of amino acids, the building blocks for collagen, which act as the raw material - like a biological signal for your fibroblasts to make more collagen.

The research showed that a precise vegan amino acid blend stimulates collagen production up to 4× more effectively than traditional collagen peptides, and revealed that collagen synthesis depends on specific building blocks in a specific pattern, and not on consuming whole collagen proteins.

2. Supportive co-factors (activation & stabilisation)

Beyond amino acids, the body requires support from various nutrients and cellular processes to assemble, fold, and stabilise collagen fibres.

One of the most critical co-factors in collagen synthesis is Vitamin C. It supports the enzymatic process that links amino acids together, and it stabilises newly formed collagen fibres by enabling hydroxylation - ensuring they are strong, resilient, and properly structured.

Another essential supporter is Alpha-Ketoglutarate (AKG). Beyond general metabolic support, AKG acts as a co-substrate in the hydroxylation of proline and lysine, working in direct synergy with the amino acids to stabilise the collagen triple helix. This makes AKG a key enabler of effective collagen renewal, helping skin maintain structure, firmness, and regenerative capacity.

3. Protective antioxidants (collagen preservation)

Newly formed collagen fibres are fragile and can be easily damaged by UV radiation, inflammation, oxidative stress and pollution.

Antioxidants like Astaxanthin, Vitamin C, and certain polyphenols help protect collagen from breakdown and maintain its structure over time. Astaxanthin in particular has been shown in research to support skin elasticity and protect collagen from oxidative degradation.

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Why AVEA developed the patented Collagen Activator

Based on breakthrough research conducted at ETH Zurich and now published in Natures npj Aging, AVEA has worked with a team of scientists to develop a more effective way to replenish the body's natural collagen levels.

The Collagen Activator features Colgevity™ - our patented, 100% vegan collagen precursor complex developed in partnership with leading longevity scientists at ETH Zurich.

Unlike traditional animal-derived collagen peptides which must be broken down into smaller fragments before your body can utilise them, our formula provides the optimised building blocks to boost the body’s collagen regeneration for deeper, longer lasting results. The Collagen Activator:

Helps the body replenish its collagen levels with a patented formula discovered at ETH Zurich to counteract age-related collagen decline
Has been clinically shown to improve elasticity and firmness, helping visibly reduce fine lines and early signs of skin ageing
Boosts skin hydration and smoothness, supporting a more radiant, youthful complexion
Strengthens hair and nails with targeted micronutrients essential for keratin and connective-tissue structure
Backed by a peer-reviewed study in Nature’s npj Aging showing superior performance vs. traditional collagen

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What is Colgevity™, our patented collagen precursor?

Colgevity™ is a patented, vegan collagen precursor designed around the 3:1:1 amino-acid ratio identified in the peer-reviewed study published in Nature’s npj Aging.

This study demonstrated that the body does not respond optimally to whole collagen peptides. Instead, collagen synthesis is activated when fibroblasts receive glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline in this precise ratio - the same ratio that naturally appears in human collagen.

Colgevity™ delivers these three collagen-building amino acids in the exact composition validated by the study, providing a clear and efficient biological signal for collagen production.

This targeted approach has been shown to stimulate collagen up to 4x more effectively than traditional animal-derived collagen peptides.

To maximise the results, the Collagen Activator formula combines Colgevity™ with key biological co-factors and antioxidants that help your body form, stabilise, and protect new collagen fibres:

Acerola cherry extract (Vitamin C) - essential for collagen cross-linking and stability. Vitamin C also supports moisture retention and strengthens the skin’s resilience against daily oxidative stress.
Alpha-Ketoglutarate (AKG) - a central molecule in cellular metabolism that supports efficient collagen synthesis and contributes to the body’s natural repair processes.
Astaxanthin - one of the most powerful natural antioxidants, providing targeted protection against oxidative and UV-induced collagen damage.

Our Collagen Activator is also one of the very few truly 100% vegan natural collagen supplements available today.

While most collagen products still rely on animal-derived sources like bovine or marine collagen, our innovative Colgevity™ precursor offers a 100% plant-based, cruelty-free solution with superior effectiveness.

Clinically validated results

How do you measure the effects of a collagen supplement?

Thanks to advances in dermatological and epigenetic testing, it is now possible to objectively measure the impact of collagen support on the skin - from hydration and texture to elasticity and biological age.

Tools such as VISIA® high-resolution facial imaging, Corneometer hydration testing, Cutometer elasticity analysis, and epigenetic clocks allow researchers to track meaningful changes over time with scientific precision.

The 6-Month Human Study in Zurich

To evaluate the effectiveness of the amino-acid ratio identified in the ETH Zurich research, a 6-month observational clinical study was conducted at Hautwerk Dermatology Clinic in Zurich, led by dermatologist Dr. Bettina Rümmelein.

The study used the exact 3:1:1 amino-acid composition validated in the Nature’s npj Aging publication.

A total of 66 participants (ages 35–68) were analysed using advanced dermatological assessments at baseline, 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months.

What the Study Measured

Skin hydration (Corneometer)
Skin texture & spots (VISIA® imaging)
Elasticity & firmness (Cutometer)
Biological age (TruMe saliva-based epigenetic clock)

Key Study Outcomes

Skin Improvements (3 Months)

Across the participant group, researchers observed measurable improvements in skin quality:

+34.6% improvement in skin hydratio
+8.5% in skin texture
+5% skin elasticity
Significant hydration increases in upper arm and forearm skin
Most participants self-reported smoother, healthier, more hydrated skin

These improvements reflect changes in the skin’s underlying collagen network, not just surface hydration.

Biological Age Reduction (6 Months)

The study also assessed internal markers of aging using epigenetic testing.

Average reduction of biological age: –1.4 years
Similar improvements in both men and women
Largest individual improvements: –12.1 years (female) and –8.9 years (male)
Participants with a higher starting biological age saw the greatest benefits
88% of participants either maintained or reduced their biological age

This suggests that collagen support via the 3:1:1 amino-acid ratio may play a meaningful role in long-term skin and cellular health.

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Collagen Activator

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Formulated with longevity researchers at ETH Zurich, our patented, 100% vegan complex stimulates your body's natural collagen production 4x more effectively than traditional collagen peptides.

✔ Developed by leading longevity experts in Switzerland

✔ 100% vegan, clean, transparent ingredients with no sugar, toxins, or fillers. Sweetened with Stevia.

✔ Backed by 500+ extensive studies. Clinically validated to improve skin hydration and texture within just 30 days.

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Mirela B.C. | Age: 34 | 4 months

I use Vitality bundle and Collagen activator. Skin texture improved, energy level increased, better sleep quality. Definitely both products will stay in my daily routine in the future.

Gerrit M. | Age: 28 | 3 months

It seems I need to cut my nails twice as often as previously, and my skin feels softer and smoother than ever before.

Karin T. | Age: 28 | 1 months

The skin looks and feels better after almost 1 month.

Maria | Age: 44 | 4 months

I am very satisfied with the Collagen Activator. It has a pleasant taste and gives me physical strength.

Liesbet. | Age: 26 | 1 months

After a month of collagen I already see improvements in my skin which just looks more even and plump somehow.

benefits

Stimulates collagen production

Research conducted at ETH Zurich showed that our vegan collagen precursor compound, Colgevity™, in our Collagen Activator, increases collagen synthesis 4x more than regular collagen intake.*

*Based on an in vitro study in human skin cells and model organisms.

Boosts skin hydration from within

Elevate your skin's moisture levels with our Collagen Activator. Clinically observed to boost skin hydration by 95%, it leaves the complexion deeply moisturised and resilient.

Improves skin texture & smoothness

Our Collagen Activator effectively refines skin texture, offering a significant reduction in pore appearance by 9% and enhancing smoothness by 21%, resulting in a polished and refined complexion.

Enhances skin protection against UV damage

Studies suggest astaxanthin supplementation may inhibit age-related skin deterioration and maintain skin conditions associated with environmentally induced damage via its anti-inflammatory effect.

Promotes healthy joints by supporting cartilage growth
All ingredients in our Collagen Activator have been shown to either increase or protect collagen levels as well as reduce inflammation which contributes to joint health by slowing cartilage wear down.

May reduce biological age over time

Numerous studies, including ours, show that AKG can extend lifespan in various organisms. A human study showed significant biological age reduction after supplementing for 7 months with 1g Ca-AKG.

ingredients

Active ingredients:

Colgevity™ 8400mg (L-Glycine 5000mg, L-Hydroxyproline 1700mg, L-Proline 1700mg), Calcium Alpha-Ketoglutarate 1000mg, Algae Powder 200mg (Providing Astaxanthin 4mg), Acerola Fruit Juice Extract 150mg (Providing Vitamin C 48mg)

Other ingredients:

Silicon dioxide as anti-caking agent to ensure the powder’s free-flowing nature, improve manufacturing processes, maintain ingredient uniformity and enhance the stability of the final product
Citric acid as acidity regulator to stabilize pH, enhance flavor, improve solubility, prevent microbial growth and protect the product’s active ingredients, ensuring a high-quality and enjoyable final product
Steviol glycosides from stevia as sweetener to serve as a natural, calorie-free sweetener that enhances the taste, masks unpleasant flavors and improves the palatability of drinks while being suitable for various dietary preferences and restrictions
Natural raspberry flavours as flavour to enhance taste, mask unpleasant notes, improve consumer appeal and encourage regular consumption of the product (included only in Collagen Activator Lemon Raspberry)
Peppermint oil powder as flavour to improve taste, mask undesirable flavors, provide a refreshing cooling effect and enhance the sensory experience (included only in Collagen Activator Lemon Raspberry)
Safflower concentrate (carthamus) as colouring food to enhance visual appeal, standardize product appearance and align with consumer preferences for clean-label, plant-based ingredients (included only in Collagen Activator Lemon)
Natural lemon flavour as flavour to enhance taste, mask unpleasant notes, improve consumer appeal and encourage regular consumption of the product (included only in Collagen Activator Lemon)

sourcing

At Avea, we prioritise transparency and quality. We source globally, focusing on ingredients with excellent bioavailability or high activity through standardised plant extracts. Every batch is rigorously double-tested for purity by an independent Swiss lab. We go beyond standard labelling to provide detailed information, and our customer service team is available for any questions or test result requests.

daily intake guide

Take one daily Collagen Activator sachet dissolved in a glass of water, preferably after a meal or 1-2 hours before bed to promote skin rejuvenation and support restorative sleep thanks to its Glycine content.

100% vegan

clean, traceable ingredients

third-party double tested in switzerland

backed by 500+ studies

no artificial flavours, fillers or additives

About the Author

Dr. Matilde Mantovani

Molecular Biologist & Scientific Research Manager

Matilde possesses a strong academic experience as she holds a Ph.D. in Molecular Life Sciences from the University of Zurich.

Her research focused on understanding how error during protein synthesis can impact our health and contribute to ageing.

She combines her scientific background with a passion for photography, volunteering as a photographer in various events that aim to connect science and society.

We want you to ask questions.

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How long does it take to see results with AVEA products?

Results vary depending on the product and individual factors such as lifestyle, diet and regular use. While some users notice changes after just a few weeks, long-term benefits are best achieved through continued use according to the recommendations.

Are AVEA products vegan and allergen-free?

Many Avea products are vegan, gluten-free and free from common allergens. However, we recommend checking the ingredients list on the product page or packaging to ensure that the product meets your dietary preferences and restrictions.

Can I use several AVEA products at the same time?

Yes, Avea products are formulated to work together synergistically. However, we recommend that you follow the instructions for use and consult a doctor if you have any concerns about combining different supplements.

How should I store AVEA products to preserve their quality?

To preserve the effectiveness and shelf life of Avea products, they should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or heat. Some products need to be refrigerated after opening - please follow the specific storage instructions on the packaging.

The AVEA Promise

We carefully select the purest and most bioavailable plant extracts and compounds available. Our product descriptions clearly outline the production methods and origins of each ingredient.

made in switzerland

We manufacture in state-of-the-art, GMP-certified facilities that are regularly audited by Swiss authorities. Each product batch is sent to an independent Swiss laboratory for additional purity testing, ensuring the highest quality and safety.

backed by science

Our formulations are based on cutting-edge Longevity research. Led by Chief Science Officer Sophie Chabloz, our team collaborates with longevity experts from top institutions to create highly effective, science-backed products.

transparent ingredients

We carefully select the purest and most bioavailable plant extracts and compounds available. Our product descriptions clearly outline the production methods and origins of each ingredient.