It sounds more like something your gran made for you when you had the flu. But in the world of wellness, bone broth has had a serious glow-up. It’s now the drink of choice for celebrities and influencers alike, praised for its skin-plumping, gut-healing, and anti-ageing powers.
But does sipping a mug of broth really smooth wrinkles? Or is it just another health fad dressed up as a miracle? As someone who’s been in the beauty business for over three decades, I’ve seen trends come and go but I’m also the first to get behind something if it actually works.
So, let’s break it down.
What is Bone Broth, Really?
Bone broth is basically a richer, longer simmered version of stock. It’s made by boiling animal bones (chicken, beef, or fish) with water, vegetables, and a splash of vinegar for up to 24 hours. This slow process helps extract key nutrients like collagen, gelatin, amino acids, and minerals, all of which support the skin, gut, and joints.
It’s been part of traditional diets for centuries, but now you’ll find it in posh glass jars,
powder sachets, and even on the shelves at Selfridges. Gwyneth swears by it. Victoria Beckham drinks it daily. But can it really give you glowing skin?
The Collagen Connection
Here’s the deal: Collagen is the protein that gives our skin structure, bounce, and firmness.
But we start losing it from our mid-20s, around 1% per year, which is why skin starts to lose that youthful springiness.
Bone broth contains collagen, which sounds promising, but it’s not as simple as drink it, get younger. When you consume collagen, your body breaks it down into amino acids. It doesn’t travel directly to your face and erase wrinkles, sadly.
What it can do is give your body the building blocks it needs to produce more collagen, especially if your diet’s lacking in protein or you’re under stress, which also depletes collagen.
Not Got Time to Boil Bones? No Problem
Let’s be honest, who’s got time to simmer bones for 24 hours? The good news is, there are some brilliant high street collagen boosters that are easy, effective, and don’t involve a single saucepan.
Here are my favourites:
Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides- A tasteless powder you can stir into your tea or smoothie. Stocked in Boots and great for beginners.
Absolute Collagen Liquid Sachets – Marine collagen in portable pouches. Handy, effective, and backed by rave reviews.
Beauty Pie Collagen Super Powder – Budget-friendly, with added hyaluronic acid. Ideal if you’re already a Beauty Pie member.
Revive Collagen Enhanced Plus – A premium drink that combines collagen with retinol, keratin, and vitamins. Sold at Selfridges and online.
The Inkey List Collagen Booster Serum – A fab topical option if you’d rather apply than sip. Layer it under your moisturiser for a daily firming boost.
My 5 Tips for Boosting Collagen Naturally
- Wear SPF every single day– UV rays break down collagen faster than anything else. Cloudy? Still wear it.
- Load up on Vitamin C– Your body needs it to make collagen, so eat more peppers, berries and citrus or try a supplement.
- Get your beauty sleep– Collagen is produced during deep sleep. Aim for 7–9 hours and keep tech out of the bedroom.
- Cut the sugar– Yes, I know. But sugar damages collagen through a process called glycation. Limit the sweets, and your skin will thank you.
- Be consistent– Whether it’s bone broth or a powder, collagen takes time. Stick with it for at least 6–8 weeks to see real results.
So, Is It Worth It?
Bone broth or any good collagen supplement isn’t going to give you a facelift in a fortnight.
But over time, it can help your skin look smoother, your nails grow stronger, and your joints feel a little less creaky. It’s no miracle, but it is a solid addition to a smart skincare and wellness routine. And if you find comfort in sipping something warm that’s good for you even better.
Now, pass me a mug. My glow-up awaits.
