Skin care is more than what is applied topically each day. It is also what is put into bodies. Collagen supplementation has been controversial since it arrived on the scene. However, the ingestion of collagen-rich foods has been around since ancient times. Historically, humans have eaten a high collagen diet from bone broth, animal skin, bone marrow, and gelatin. Most nutrition experts would agree that food sources are always the best way to receive nutrients and are generally more bioavailable. However, food sources are not always the most practical and food sources of collagen are not as concentrated as a supplement. Therefore, it is essential to find what works best for each individual body. A pescatarian may not want to eat fish skin every day, so a tasteless marine collagen powder in coffee may be a better option. A person may not like the texture of bone marrow, but a collagen liquid or powder in a smoothie is something they can implement regularly. It is always important to note that a professional cannot and should not prescribe any supplement to their client, but instead, provide education and empower them to research and make the right decision for themself.

Emily Davis has been a licensed aesthetician since 2007. She is the owner and operator of Stratum Aesthetics in Denver, Colorado, where she focuses on integrative skincare integrating holistic old-world treatments and plant medicine. Davis has spent seven years educating about aesthetics and loves to share her passion and knowledge with others. Davis is currently working to become a certified herbalist and nutritional aesthetics practitioner, she is so excited to broaden her offerings in the treatment room to assist in whole-body wellness. Davis has a long-standing passion for health, wellness, and skincare and is so thrilled to intersect that passion. Davis hosts an online esthetician’s book club focused on education and networking. When Davis is not in the treatment room she is enjoying time outdoors in the Rocky Mountains with her Great Dane mix Daisy Fuentes.