Every year, a new drink claims to change our lives. First, it was matcha, which turned lattes into a green symbol of mindfulness. Then came protein shakes, filling gym bags and Instagram feeds. The newest trend is collagen. Once found in supplement jars, it is now everywhere. It has become not just something you take, but something you show off.
On Instagram, influencers are posting videos showing how to use collagen powder. Lifestyle magazines share stories about how collagen improved their skin. In India, collagen is becoming very popular. I recently visited Matcha House, a cafe in Delhi’s Green Park, which served matcha drinks with collagen, showing that this trend is moving beyond smoothies and lattes. The menu features collagen builder, the only vegan collagen blend that uses effective plant nutrients to improve skin structure, firmness, and glow, and also includes 500mg of glutathione.
This vegan menu includes collagen that enhances the food:
- Vanilla Glow – Price ₹449: Creamy matcha mixed with sweet vanilla syrup and smooth coconut milk.
- Ocean Glow costs ₹449: Earthy matcha combines with bright spirulina. It is lightly sweetened and balanced.
- Pistachio Glow – ₹499: Rich pistachio combines with smooth matcha and sweet condensed oat milk.
What is collagen made of?
Collagen is made of amino acids, the building blocks of proteins. The main amino acids in collagen are glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline. These amino acids are arranged in a specific order to form a strong and flexible structure called a triple helix. Collagen also contains other compounds known as collagen peptides. To produce collagen, the body needs certain vitamins and minerals, especially vitamin C, which is essential for collagen synthesis.
Collagen is a protein that your body naturally produces to help keep your skin firm, nails strong, and joints moving well. Take collagen supplements to boost levels your body doesn’t produce. Doctors are cautious about these supplements. The evidence is mixed, and there’s no strong proof that collagen powders reduce wrinkles or improve skin glow. Studies show that, overall, using collagen supplements carries a low risk, though the evidence remains uncertain, and many people still choose to try them and report noticing a difference.
What is the collagen craze?
The rise in collagen’s popularity makes sense. Protein already appears in various foods, from popcorn to ice cream, so it is no surprise that its beauty-related version found its way into coffee drinks, too.
“Older millennials share that collagen seems to help their joints, strengthen their nails, and improve their skin, and the placebo effect could play a role. Collagen has many loyal fans”, dermatologist Dr Raina Nahar tells Health Shots.
These examples highlight a significant cultural change. Wellness is now more than just going to the gym has become a lifestyle that affects how people eat, drink, and socialise. The sober-curious crowd is choosing non-alcoholic drinks over late-night cocktails, while new activities like sauna raves and yoga festivals are drawing people who want to have fun while staying healthy.
Why is collagen suddenly so popular?
Collagen is becoming popular in different countries. In Japan and South Korea, people enjoy collagen waters and gummies as part of their daily beauty routine. In the U.S., Erewhon has made collagen smoothies trendy, with prices reaching $20. In India, cafes are adding collagen drinks to their menus, appealing to those who want drinks that look good on social media and promote wellness. This trend attracts a generation that values both health and aesthetic appeal.
The global collagen market is growing quickly. It is expected to reach $5.2 billion by 2025 and $9.1 billion by 2035, with a steady growth rate of 5.8% per year. The demand for collagen spans from beauty products to beverages, and it shows no signs of slowing down.
Do collagen drinks actually work?
Collagen drinks are popular right now, but whether they actually reverse ageing remains to be seen. They taste good, look great on social media, and give a healthy glow. For a generation focused on wellness while having fun, collagen hits the mark and is currently very trendy.
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This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.)
