Essential Skin Food Collagen Review: An In-Depth Analysis of Its Effects on Skin Elasticity and Youthful Appearance

Introduction

Quick question - when was the last time you truly felt confident in your skin? No, not just metaphorically, but literally - when your reflection felt vibrant, smooth, and youthful?

For many, the answer lies deep in the elusive balance of time, care, and, let’s be real, collagen. As we age, our body’s natural collagen production slows. And so we’re left searching for solutions to restore that glow.

Welcome to the booming world of supplements, where convenience meets innovation. Among the most popular, ActivatedYou Essential Skin Food claims to stand out, not as a collagen replacement, but as a plant-based collagen supporter.

It comes packed with ingredients like Dermaval™ and Cosmythic™, promising to help your skin look firmer, plumper, and more radiant.

But does it live up to the hype? In this review, we’ll break down its ingredients, taste, efficacy, and value, so you can decide if Essential Skin Food is the right fit for your skincare routine. Read along.

Ingredient Analysis

Essential Skin Food Collagen Supplement Fact

ActivatedYou Essential Skin Food’s formula combines a blend of amino acids, vitamins, and plant-based compounds, each chosen for its unique role in enhancing skin health. At its core are L-Lysine HCl and L-Proline.

The formula also includes Vitamin C and Calcium to contribute to overall skin health and cellular function.

Additionally, the supplement features the Dermaval™ Blend, a proprietary mix of plant-based ingredients like Pomegranate Extract, Coffeeberry, Quercetin, Acerola, and Camu Camu.

Finally, Cosmythic™ French Maritime Pine Bark Extract rounds out the formula with its polyphenol-rich properties.

Here’s a closer look at the key ingredients;

Lysine

Lysine is an essential amino acid that, according to a 2012 study, plays a pivotal role in collagen production. Collagen, the protein responsible for skin elasticity and firmness, relies on lysine as a critical building block.

Without lysine, the body struggles to produce and maintain collagen, leading to sagging skin, fine lines, and a loss of elasticity.

Beyond its role in collagen synthesis, lysine enhances calcium absorption, which is crucial for maintaining the strength of the bones beneath your skin.

We especially need this as we age, as bone density naturally decreases, potentially contributing to a hollowed or aged appearance. Lysine also supports wound healing by promoting the production of new skin cells and strengthening the skin barrier^[1].

We approve of this ingredient.

Lysine is essential for collagen production, which helps maintain skin structure and elasticity. It also plays a significant role in bone health and wound healing, making it vital for overall skin and body integrity. As we – Mark Hyman, MD ,Co-Founder & Chief Medical Officer of Function Health.

L-Proline

L-Proline is a non-essential amino acid working alongside lysine to stabilize and regenerate collagen fibers.

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the skin, and its degradation is one of the primary causes of visible aging.

Proline’s role in skin health goes beyond collagen production. It acts as a ‘glue’ that holds skin cells together, ensuring a smooth and firm texture. This is particularly important for aging skin, which loses collagen and elasticity over time.

Proline also supports the skin’s natural repair processes. During wound healing, proline levels naturally increase in the affected area to support the formation of new collagen. This makes it an invaluable ingredient for repairing damaged skin and maintaining its structural integrity.

Additionally, proline has been shown to improve skin hydration, contributing to a plumper, more youthful appearance. Its benefits extend beyond the skin, supporting the health of connective tissues such as tendons, ligaments, and cartilage^[1].

We approve of this ingredient.

Pomegranate Extract

Pomegranate extract is rich in polyphenols, particularly ellagic acid, which is known for its antioxidant properties. These antioxidants help neutralize free radicals , which can damage skin cells and accelerate aging^[3].

While this sounds promising, the evidence supporting pomegranate extract’s direct impact on collagen production is limited. Most studies focus on its general antioxidant benefits rather than its ability to enhance skin elasticity or reduce wrinkles.

One of the challenges with pomegranate extract is its bioavailability. The body may not efficiently absorb the polyphenols it contains, which limits their potential benefits.

While pomegranate extract may offer some protection against oxidative stress, its role in collagen support remains speculative. We found it to be a less reliable ingredient compared to lysine and proline.

We, therefore, don’t approve of this ingredient.

Quercetin

Quercetin is a flavonoid found in many fruits and vegetables, celebrated for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It is often included in skin supplements for its potential to reduce redness and irritation^[1].

However, its direct impact on collagen production or skin elasticity is not well-documented.

Most studies on quercetin focus on its systemic anti-inflammatory effects rather than its localized benefits for the skin.

While it may contribute to overall skin health by reducing inflammation, its inclusion as a key ingredient in a collagen-support supplement is questionable. It’s more of a supporting player than a star ingredient.

We don’t approve of this ingredient.

Coffeeberry

Coffeeberry, derived from the fruit of the coffee plant, is another ingredient marketed for its antioxidant properties. It is known to be a natural way to combat skin aging[5].

However, like pomegranate extract, the scientific evidence supporting its efficacy in collagen production is sparse.

While coffeeberry may help neutralize free radicals, its benefits are largely superficial and short-term.

There is little to no evidence suggesting that it can influence deeper skin structures or contribute to long-term improvements in skin elasticity.

Its inclusion in the formula feels more like a trendy addition than a scientifically backed choice. We don’t approve of this ingredient.

We Tried Essential Skin Food Collagen

Tried Essential Skin Food Collagen

Trying ActivatedYou Essential Skin Food was an interesting experience. The supplement comes in capsule form, which is, of course, very convenient to use.

Taking one capsule daily with water felt simple enough. However, the experience left us with mixed feelings.

The texture of the capsule was smooth and easy to swallow, which is a plus for those who dislike chalky powders like yours truly. Since it’s not a mixable product, there’s no issue with clumping or dissolving. That said, the lack of a drinkable option might not appeal to everyone.

Taste isn’t a factor here, as the capsule is tasteless, but that also means there’s no enjoyable flavor experience.

Satiety was another area where we felt the product fell short. Unlike meal replacement powders or collagen drinks, it didn’t leave us feeling full or satisfied.

While it’s marketed as a skin health supplement, it doesn’t offer the added benefit of curbing hunger. On the bright side, the once-a-day dosage is convenient for busy schedules.

So, we found the product to be pretty decent, but it didn’t stand out enough to earn a strong recommendation. For those seeking a more versatile or satisfying option, there are better alternatives. It gets an overall rating of ⅗ from us.

Side Effects & Safety

Commonly mentioned issues with ActivatedYou Essential Skin Food include bloating, stomach discomfort, and headaches. A few users have raised concerns about the inclusion of maltodextrin, which they associate with gastrointestinal issues.

Additionally, some women have reported hormonal changes, particularly those in menopause, suggesting the need for caution and medical advice before use.

On the positive side, the product is generally well-tolerated by most users and is easy to incorporate into daily routines. Its plant-based formula makes it suitable for vegetarians and those avoiding animal-derived collagen.

However, individuals with pre-existing conditions or sensitivities should consult a healthcare provider before starting the best collagen supplement.

Real Customer Reviews

ActivatedYou Essential Skin Food has garnered mixed reviews across platforms. On Amazon, for instance, the product holds a 3.8 out of 5-star rating, with opinions divided between satisfied and disappointed customers.

One customer who left a 5-star review, noted:

"I’ve just about finished my first jar, and so far, I’m liking the subtle changes in my skin and nails! These aren’t harsh on the stomach, so you can take them without food—at least I can, and I have a sensitive stomach! Three months is normally when you see a major change, so I can’t wait to see what’s in store. I’ll keep this updated!"

Another user who didn’t have a good experience noted:

"No difference after the whole bottle of ActivatedYou Essential Skin Food—Skin Nourishing Collagen Support was taken. My nails, hair, and skin actually react better to the old trick of biotin pills or collagen powder added to tea. I like the actress on the ad, though. She was the security detail on the Designated Survivor TV movie. I bought to support the success of her career and her 'cause.' After I saw the lack of results, I no longer intend to buy it."

Trustpilot, another reliable review site, rates the brand at 4.0 out of 5, indicating a generally positive reception but with notable criticisms.

Where to Find the Best Value

ActivatedYou Essential Skin Food is available for purchase on the official ActivatedYou website for $69.5 per jar. It’s also available on Amazon, listed for $59.95. eBay occasionally lists the product, often at discounted rates, but availability can be inconsistent.

However, this dietary supplement is priced higher than many other collagen-support products on the market.While it offers a plant-based formula, the cost may not align with every budget. For those seeking collagen benefits at a lower price, exploring alternative options might provide better value.

Essential Skin Food Collagen vs. Super Derm Complex

Essential Skin Food focuses on plant-based ingredients like L-Lysine, L-Proline, and a Dermaval™ blend, aiming to support natural collagen production. While its formula is simple, it lacks the comprehensive collagen types found in Super Derm Complex.

Super Derm Complex, on the other hand, offers a robust blend of five collagen types—bovine, marine, chicken, eggshell membrane, and avian sternum.

This multi-collagen approach targets skin elasticity, joint health, and overall vitality. It’s also backed by clinical studies and manufactured in a GMP-certified facility.

Price-wise, Essential Skin Food is relatively expensive for its limited scope. Super Derm Complex, while premium, provides better value with its multi-functional benefits and competitive pricing for larger bundles.

For those seeking a more comprehensive solution, Super Derm Complex stands out as the better choice.

Pros & Cons