Collagen – does it really work? I’m sharing my personal journey from sceptic to believer. From my first filter-free photos to the subtle, noticeable changes in my skin – see how marine collagen from Vild Nord gave me more hydrated skin. Is it worth trying? Read on and judge for yourself.
I’ll admit it straight away. I’m a sceptic when it comes to supplements. Especially us women – we’re bombarded with all sorts of products. Collagen – isn’t it just another thing for us mature women to spend our money on?
But here’s the thing: I’ve done my own little experiment. Super simple, of course. And yes, it’s me who suggested blogging about it. Just to be clear – I’m being paid to write this. Writing and teaching about it is how I make my living. BUT, it was my choice to take photos along the way, long before I decided to write anything at all.
How did it start?
"I need to get to know you better," said Sigrid.
I had been on a project in Stavanger for the hotel chain HEIMR (non-sponsored plug, hehe). That’s where I met Sigrid, one of the owners.
Sometimes you meet people you instantly click with. That’s how it was with Sigrid and me. We met for lunch in Oslo and started chatting about ageing. I’ve always had a positive outlook on getting older, and I like how I (and others!) look.
Genetics probably play a part too. I had oily skin and acne when I was younger – and I’m definitely reaping the benefits of that now. (I’ve also used very little makeup over the years and gotten pretty good at using sunscreen!)
During lunch, Sigrid mentioned she works with Vild Nord, a Danish/Norwegian company that makes marine collagen. We talked back and forth as we enjoyed our meal. Then she asked if I wanted to give it a try.
Why not? I thought.
And that was the beginning of my collagen journey. I decided to find out if it really works.
Collagen - the first picture (OMG)
(I never thought I’d show this to anyone else. Urgh.)
Yes, this is me. A bit embarrassing to put it out there. The photo is from June 16th. No filter, no makeup. Just me.
I’m almost 61, and people often say I look younger. That’s not exactly what you’d think when you see this photo, haha!
Just to balance things out: Here’s how I look in one of my latest promo photos with lovely lighting.
Photo: Truls Qvale. Stylist: Enora Olsen. (Love u both!)
After 3-4 weeks with Vild Nord Marine Collagen - Small, Positive Signs.
Having had oily skin as a young woman, I now have quite dry skin as an adult. (Incredibly, I still get the occasional pimple. Explain that, if you can.)
I haven’t thought much about it during the day. But waking up in the middle of the night and needing to moisturise – that really didn’t feel great. I tried all sorts of moisturisers, from the most expensive to the more budget-friendly ones.
When I started with marine collagen, I knew it wouldn’t be a "quick fix". But after 3-4 weeks of using Collagen Beauty Remedy, I began to notice a difference. My skin felt softer and more hydrated – even at night.
Pling – here comes the next photo, with a timestamp of August 17th.
It’s possible there’s a bit kinder lighting in this photo – but can I see a difference?
I’ve had a lovely summer holiday here, so that might also be influencing the result.
Because I started getting really curious, I took another picture already on August 26th.
Hmm… Is something starting to happen? Yes?
Now, I need a little break from these photos, I know. So, onto this topic:
Which type of collagen should you choose?
When I first decided to give collagen a try, I was quickly overwhelmed by how many variations there are. Should it be collagen in capsules or powder?
Vild Nord also has several collagen powder options, and I initially thought collagen was just collagen. But then I learned that different types can be tailored to different needs. Vild Nord has variants for those who work out a lot and for those who want extra nourishment for both hair and nails.
I decided to take the test on Vild Nord’s site, the Collagen Compass.
Collagen Beauty Remedy, which was the recommendation I got, is mainly for the skin, which is perfect for me. I’ve got enough hair and nails. (Plus, Collagen Beauty Remedy contains both hyaluronic acid AND Swedish blueberries.)
My Routine With Marine collagen From Vild Nord
To put it simply, I’m not particularly structured. Sometimes I take the powder in the morning. Other times in the evening. It sounds strange to me to have marine collagen in coffee since coffee is a diuretic, but many people choose to do just that (I’ve read and heard about it). Personally, I swear by pineapple juice, so I get a little fruity boost in return.
What I actually notice is that I need to follow through. If I forget to take the collagen for a week (I travel a lot), I can actually feel the difference. It’s great to come home, spoon a tablespoon of Collagen Beauty Remedy into my cup, mix the powder with a bit of pineapple juice, and top it up with more juice.
On Vild Nord’s website, you’ll find a bunch of lovely recipe tips. Maybe others have time to make nourishing smoothies at home or mix marine collagen into chia pudding. Not this lady.
(That being said, I’m looking at the recipes now, and my mouth is watering. Dark chocolate tart? Mmm.)
Many Types of Collagen - What's The Difference?
If you start looking into collagen, you’ll come across terms like "marine collagen" and "hydrolysed collagen". In short – not all collagen is the same. "Marine collagen" comes from fish, and that’s what’s used in Vild Nord’s products. The advantage of marine collagen is that the molecules are supposedly small and more easily absorbed by the body. It’s a big plus for me that the collagen comes from fish, which are more sustainable than cattle.
When it comes to "hydrolysed" marine collagen, it simply means the collagen has been broken down into smaller pieces, making it easier for the body to absorb. Does it sound a bit technical and uninteresting? It did to me too, but I’ve learned that these small pieces really do make a big difference – the body can use the collagen more easily, meaning the skin (and the rest of the body) gets the most out of each glass of pineapple juice with marine collagen powder.
What Does Science Say About Collagen?
I have to admit, I was sceptical about whether the research truly supports the effects of collagen. Some studies show that marine collagen can contribute to better moisture and elasticity in the skin, which I definitely notice myself. It might not stop ageing, but it gives the skin better support and makes it more supple, so fine lines aren’t as visible.
I’ve also read that marine collagen can help the body stimulate its own collagen production – a sort of reverse ageing effect, if you will. For me, that’s a big plus because it means I’m actually doing something that doesn’t just contribute to younger-looking skin on the outside, but gives my skin a little boost from within. And that really makes me feel more confident that this routine is worth continuing.
And yes, there are also many researchers who say collagen has no effect.
So, it’s time to show you the next photo, with a timestamp of 6th September.
This is where things start to happen – especially around my mouth, I think. And maybe the eye area too?
I’m not a researcher, and I can’t guarantee anything. But I do believe that:
- I SEE the difference
- I FEEL the difference
This has really motivated me to keep going, no matter what the researchers say.
After A Couple of Months – The Long-Term Effects of Collagen
Now the real results started to show. I noticed that my skin wasn’t just softer, but also firmer and more elastic. It’s hard to describe the difference, but the skin feels more "plump," which gives a smoother surface and makes it look younger. It’s simply pretty cool!
After using marine collagen from Vild Nord for a few months, I can say that I see a clear difference in my skin. It feels softer and firmer, and I’ve even received a few compliments from friends asking what kind of "glow" I have. Never wrong!
Questions I Get About Collagen
I don’t exactly go around talking about collagen in my everyday life, but now and then I mention it to someone. So, there are two questions that come up.
- Do you really think collagen works?
Yes, and honestly, it’s a bit surprising for me to say. After several months of daily use, I definitely notice a difference. My skin has received a little boost that I didn’t think was possible from anything other than moisturiser and serum. - Do you need to take it everyday?
Yes and no. I prefer to take it daily because I feel like the effects are better maintained. If I have a busy week and forget to take it, I notice my skin feels a bit drier. But taking a break now and then is probably fine, just don’t let it turn into a long break.
My tips for those considering marine collagen
Would you like to try marine collagen? Here are my tips based on experience.
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Be consistent – Try to incorporate collagen as a regular part of your day. Once it becomes a habit, it’s easier to stick with it.
Experiment with taste and drinks – Vild Nord’s marine collagen can be mixed into both food and drinks. Figure out what works best for you. Note that some types of collagen can withstand heat, while others cannot!
Take before and after photos – It’s not always easy to see changes in the mirror day by day, but photos can be great motivation and give you a visual confirmation of the changes.
Be patient – As mentioned, it takes a few weeks to notice a difference, but with patience, the results come.
Choose quality products – Look for high-quality marine collagen from a reputable brand.
Finally – what do I think?
Still sceptical? No.
Will I continue? Yes.
And lastly, an unfiltered night-time photo from me. Timestamp 2nd November.
I’m very happy! Both with Vild Nord’s marine collagen and with life.
Facts about Vild Nord Marine Collagen:
- Marine collagen from wild-caught cod from the North Atlantic
- MSC-certified (meets international sustainable fishing practices)
- Vild Nord marine collagen is blended with natural ingredients that are minimally processed for high bioavailability.
- Contains 5 grams of marine collagen per serving.
- Proven effect within 8-12 weeks.
