Collagen, the protein that keeps our skin firm and youthful, has exploded in popularity over recent years, with everything from collagen face creams to supplements taking center stage in the beauty industry. But collagen isn’t just a new skincare trend in the West—it’s been a part of global beauty routines for centuries. Different cultures have embraced collagen in unique ways, from Japan’s famous beauty drinks to Middle Eastern bone broths. In this article, we’re diving into how different parts of the world use collagen for beauty and health, and why it’s become an essential ingredient in so many of our own beauty routines.
Collagen in Asia: Ahead of the Curve
When it comes to using collagen, Asia—especially Japan and South Korea—has been way ahead of the game. In these countries, the idea of “beauty from within” is more than just a catchy phrase. It’s a lifestyle. People don’t just rely on creams or serums; they also drink and eat their collagen to maintain that smooth, youthful skin we all dream of.
In Japan, collagen-rich foods like fish skin and chicken cartilage have been consumed for generations. Plus, you’ll find plenty of collagen face creams and moisturisers on store shelves. The goal here is prevention—start using collagen early, and hopefully, you’ll delay those pesky signs of aging. Many women swear by collagen-infused drinks and daily skincare products to keep their skin looking plump and hydrated.
South Korea, known for its super innovative beauty scene, has also been a huge fan of collagen. Korean brands have mastered the art of collagen moisturising creams, serums, and sheet masks that aim to give you that coveted “glass skin”—that smooth, almost reflective glow that’s become the gold standard in skincare.
Collagen in Western Beauty: Late to the Party, but Growing Fast
While collagen has been a beauty staple in Asia for decades, the West has only recently caught on. For years, Western beauty was more about fighting aging with external solutions like Botox or anti-wrinkle creams. But as wellness and self-care trends have taken off, people are looking for more natural ways to support their skin, and that’s where collagen comes in.
In recent years, collagen face creams and supplements have become a huge hit. Whether it’s a powder you can mix into your smoothie or a rich moisturiser that promises to smooth fine lines, collagen is now a big part of Western beauty routines. It’s not just about looking good on the outside anymore; a “glow from within” is now the standard.
Younger generations are also joining the bandwagon earlier than ever. Millennials and Gen Z are incorporating collagen moisturising creams into their routines in their 20s as a preventive measure. The idea? Start early, and hopefully, you’ll maintain that youthful glow for longer.
Beauty Standards Around the World: How Collagen Fits In
How collagen is used really depends on what the local beauty standards are. In many Asian cultures, there’s a huge focus on prevention. People start using collagen early in life, often in their 20s, to maintain skin elasticity and hydration. It’s all about keeping skin plump and youthful, with the hope that it delays visible aging for as long as possible.
In contrast, Western cultures have historically focused more on fixing the signs of aging after they appear. That means many people don’t start using collagen until later in life, hoping it can help smooth out wrinkles and restore skin firmness. But this is changing. As more people embrace the “preventive” approach, they’re reaching for collagen face creams and supplements earlier in life.
Cultural beauty ideals also shape how collagen is marketed. In Asia, collagen is part of a holistic approach to beauty—something you eat, drink, and apply topically to stay healthy and youthful. In the West, collagen is often seen as a secret weapon in the fight against aging. But no matter where you are, the idea of glowing, healthy skin remains the common goal.
Thanks to globalization, beauty trends now spread faster than ever, and that’s one of the reasons collagen has become a worldwide sensation. Asian beauty trends, particularly from Japan and South Korea, have had a massive impact on how people in the West think about skincare. The idea that collagen face creams and supplements can help you “glow from within” has caught on, and it’s only getting bigger.
On the flip side, Western beauty brands are now innovating with collagen products as well, offering everything from vegan collagen alternatives to luxury collagen moisturising creams. As we continue to share and learn from each other’s beauty practices, collagen is emerging as a global skincare staple.
What’s Next for Collagen?
Collagen isn’t going anywhere. The demand for collagen face creams and supplements is only growing as more people look for non-invasive ways to maintain their skin’s health and appearance. Plus, with the rise of sustainability, we’re seeing more vegan collagen options hit the market, making it accessible to even more people.
Collagen’s popularity also reflects the way beauty trends are shifting. We’re no longer just focused on quick fixes or covering up signs of aging. More and more, people want products that support long-term health and beauty, both inside and out—and collagen fits that bill perfectly.
Collagen has become a global beauty phenomenon, bridging cultural approaches to skincare and self-care- people everywhere are using this powerful protein to keep their skin looking youthful and healthy. As collagen continues to dominate the beauty world, one thing’s clear: it’s here to stay, and it’s making a big impact on how we approach beauty from the inside out.
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