Make Breakfast A Part Of Your Skin Care Routine With These 3 Ingredients

My daily skin care routine starts at 8 in the morning, and I'm not just talking about the serums or creams on my shelf but also breakfast. The first meal of the day is just naturally conducive to some science-backed ingredients for optimal skin benefits if you know what to choose.

Vitamin C plays a critical role in the collagen synthesis process. "Vitamin C is a key cofactor in the synthesis of collagen and elastin, [which help] give your skin that plump and youthful appearance," dual board-certified dermatologist Keira Barr, M.D., told mindbodygreen. The nutrient also protects the collagen you already have by working against collagen-degrading enzymes1. 

One study published just last year in the journal Nutrients found that dietary soy protein supplementation with isoflavones may improve skin photoaging3, including wrinkles and pigmentation concerns, and increase skin hydration in postmenopausal women. 

On the mornings you don't have time to prep an extravagant avocado toast, tofu scramble, or even slice a grapefruit, collagen supplements can check the "skin-loving" box. Find tasty powder options to make them more versatile, keeping them on hand to dress up any smoothie, yogurt bowl, chia pudding, or oatmeal dish.

When seeking a worthy supplement, look for hydrolyzed peptides for optimal absorption.

Collagen levels deplete with age, beginning in the mid-20s, decreasing by about 1% each year. Once you hit menopause, there's a significant drop in your collagen bank—a whopping 30%4. Maintaining collagen levels as you age can support skin elasticity5, hydration6, and even smooth the appearance of some fine lines.7 Even if you're not at the age of menopause onset, it's worth considering collagen supplements for preventive care and a protein boost.