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Sep 18
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Taking a Systemic Approach to Skin & Body Wellbeing

By Essential Reading, Health, Skin No Comments

Skin ageing is a natural process, but it’s accelerated by internal and external factors such as UV exposure, poor nutrition, smoking, stress, and hormonal changes. Over time, these stressors contribute to the breakdown of collagen and elastin, leading to fine lines, wrinkles, loss of elasticity, and dryness.

Healthy habits like balanced nutrition, hydration, daily SPF, and exercise all play a role. But increasingly, science shows that a systemic approach to nutrition, nourishing from the inside out, offers powerful benefits for skin health, joint flexibility, and overall wellbeing.

The global nutraceutical market reflects this trend, projected to reach $403 billion by 2024.

What Are Nutraceuticals?

Nutraceuticals are food-derived supplements with proven health benefits beyond basic nutrition. For skin and body health, nutraceuticals:

  • Combat free radical damage
  • Reduce inflammation
  • Support collagen and elastin production
  • Slow visible signs of ageing

The Science of Collagen Peptides

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body, forming the structure of skin, joints, cartilage, and connective tissue. With age, natural collagen production declines.

Hydrolysed collagen peptides are small, highly bioavailable molecules (2–3kDa) that are easily absorbed by the body – up to 95% within one hour of ingestion. Once in the bloodstream, they stimulate collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid production, supporting skin density, hydration, and elasticity.

Introducing Totally Derma® Collagen Drink Supplement

Totally Derma® is a premium nutraceutical collagen drink that works at a cellular level to rejuvenate skin, joints, bones, gut health, and menopausal wellbeing.

Unlike standard collagen powders, Totally Derma® combines:

  • 10,000mg bovine collagen peptides (Types I, II, and III)
  • Patented enzymatically hydrolysed hyaluronic acid
  • Synergistic antioxidants & minerals (Vitamin C, Zinc, Alpha Lipoic Acid, Grape Seed Extract, Green Tea Extract, Copper & Manganese)

Each ingredient is included at therapeutic dosages for clinically proven results.

Key Benefits of Totally Derma®

  • Improves skin hydration, elasticity, and density
  • Reduces fine lines and wrinkles
  • Supports joint health and flexibility
  • Enhances gut and bone health
  • Alleviates menopausal symptoms such as vaginal dryness
  • Strengthens hair and nails

Why Bovine Collagen Over Marine?

Totally Derma® uses Arthred® Bovine Collagen because of its close biochemical similarity to human collagen. This ensures excellent absorption and biocompatibility.

Marine and whey collagen sources have different structures and may increase allergy risk, making bovine the optimal choice.

Hyaluronic Acid: Hydration from Within

Totally Derma® contains patented 210mg, 50 kilodalton hyaluronic acid, clinically proven for 95% absorption.

HA is vital for maintaining hydrated, plump, and smooth skin while reinforcing collagen and elastin. Unlike most collagen supplements that stop at collagen, Totally Derma® also boosts hyaluronic acid levels for double the rejuvenation.

Antioxidants & Anti-Inflammatory Support

The addition of antioxidants and trace minerals enhances collagen activity and combats oxidative stress. This includes:

  • Vitamin C – co-factor for collagen synthesis
  • Zinc – supports tissue repair
  • Alpha Lipoic Acid, Grape Seed & Green Tea Extract – powerful antioxidants
  • Copper & Manganese – essential for enzymatic processes

Results Backed by Science

  • Results are typically felt in 3 weeks, with maximum efficacy at 90 days.
  • Originally formulated for osteoarthritis patients, Totally Derma® has been shown to improve joint mobility and simultaneously transform skin, hair, nails, gut health, and menopausal wellbeing.
  • Long-term use supports ongoing cellular repair and regeneration.

How to Take Totally Derma®

  • Mix 1 scoop daily with 250ml water, juice, or a smoothie (can also be stirred into yogurt).
  • Do not heat.
  • Pleasant vanilla-caramel flavour.
  • 360g tub = 30-day supply.
  • Price: £105 per month (£3.50/day). Equivalent of a daily cup of Coffee.

✔ Safe for diabetics
✘ Not suitable for vegetarians or vegans

A Systemic Approach to Rejuvenation

Totally Derma® is more advanced than a usual collagen drink, it’s an integrated nutraceutical system for skin, joints, gut health, and whole-body wellbeing.

It can be taken alone or alongside:

  • Topical skincare
  • Cosmeceutical regimens
  • Aesthetic treatments (microneedling, PRP, energy-based devices, surgery)

By supporting the body at a cellular level, Totally Derma® delivers results that topical products alone cannot achieve.

Aug 20
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Collagen Myths Debunked: What Science Actually Reveals About Supplementation

By Essential Reading, Health, Skin No Comments

The global collagen supplement market has exploded in recent years, but with growth comes confusion. Conflicting information floods social media platforms, whilst medical opinions vary widely on efficacy and benefits. For consumers seeking genuine wellness solutions, navigating these contradictory messages proves increasingly challenging.

This comprehensive analysis examines the most persistent collagen myths through the lens of peer-reviewed research, revealing what science actually tells us about collagen supplementation and why product quality varies so dramatically across the market.

Understanding Collagen Bioavailability: The Absorption Question

One of the most contentious debates surrounding collagen centres on bioavailability. Critics argue that collagen proteins are too large for human absorption, rendering supplementation pointless. This perspective, whilst partially accurate for whole collagen proteins, overlooks crucial developments in collagen processing technology.

Modern hydrolysed collagen supplements utilise enzymatic pre-digestion to break down large collagen molecules into smaller, bioavailable peptides. These collagen peptides, typically ranging from 2-15 amino acids in length, can successfully traverse the intestinal barrier and enter systemic circulation.

Clinical pharmacokinetic studies demonstrate that hydrolysed collagen peptides appear in plasma within 1-2 hours of oral consumption, with peak concentrations occurring between 4-6 hours post-ingestion. Notably, specific dipeptides like hydroxyproline-glycine and proline-hydroxyproline remain detectable in bloodstream for up to 12 hours, suggesting sustained bioavailability.

Totally Derma’s formulation utilises Arthred bovine collagen, a pharmaceutical-grade hydrolysed collagen with extensive clinical validation for bioavailability and tissue targeting.

The Multifaceted Role of Collagen: Beyond Cosmetic Applications

Popular media often portrays collagen supplementation as purely cosmetic, focusing exclusively on anti-ageing benefits. This narrow perspective significantly underestimates collagen’s diverse physiological functions and therapeutic potential.

Joint Health and Mobility

Collagen comprises approximately 60% of articular cartilage by dry weight. Clinical trials consistently demonstrate that collagen peptide supplementation can reduce joint discomfort, improve mobility, and support cartilage integrity in both athletes and individuals with joint concerns.

A landmark 24-week randomised controlled trial involving 147 participants showed significant improvements in joint pain and functionality with daily collagen peptide supplementation compared to placebo groups.

Gastrointestinal Wellness

Emerging research highlights collagen’s role in maintaining intestinal barrier function. The amino acid composition of collagen peptides, particularly glycine and proline, supports gut lining integrity and may benefit individuals with inflammatory bowel conditions or increased intestinal permeability.

Dermatological Benefits

Beyond surface-level improvements, collagen supplementation influences dermatological health through multiple mechanisms:

  • Enhanced hydration through improved moisture retention
  • Increased dermal density and elasticity
  • Accelerated wound healing and post-procedure recovery
  • Reduction in visible signs of photoaging

Hair and Nail Strength

Collagen provides essential amino acids required for keratin synthesis, the primary structural protein in hair and nails. Clinical studies report improved nail growth rates and reduced brittleness with consistent collagen supplementation.

Dietary Sources Versus Supplementation: A Practical Comparison

Advocates of whole-food nutrition often suggest that dietary collagen sources—primarily bone broth, gelatine, and collagen-rich cuts of meat—provide adequate collagen for health maintenance. Whilst these foods offer nutritional value, several factors limit their effectiveness compared to standardised supplementation.

Consistency and Dosage

Dietary collagen content varies enormously based on preparation methods, cooking duration, source animal, and processing techniques. A single serving of homemade bone broth might contain anywhere from 500mg to 3,000mg of collagen, making consistent therapeutic dosing virtually impossible.

Clinical studies demonstrating collagen benefits typically utilise doses of 10,000-15,000mg daily—quantities that would require consuming large volumes of bone broth or gelatine regularly.

Processing and Absorption

Dietary collagen often exists in partially denatured forms that may not provide optimal bioavailability compared to specifically processed collagen peptides designed for absorption.

Totally Derma delivers precisely 10,000mg of pharmaceutical-grade hydrolysed collagen peptides per serving, ensuring consistent therapeutic dosing that dietary sources cannot match.

Age-Related Collagen Decline: When Supplementation Becomes Critical

Collagen synthesis naturally decreases throughout adult life, with research indicating an approximate 1% annual decline beginning around age 25. This reduction accelerates significantly after age 40, particularly in women experiencing hormonal changes during perimenopause and menopause.

The Menopausal Connection

Oestrogen plays a crucial role in collagen synthesis regulation. The dramatic hormonal shifts occurring during menopause can reduce collagen production by up to 30% in the first five years post-menopause, significantly impacting skin quality, joint comfort, and overall tissue integrity.

Clinical Evidence in Older Adults

Rather than becoming less effective with age, quality collagen supplementation demonstrates particular benefits in older populations. A 12-week study involving postmenopausal women showed significant improvements in skin hydration, elasticity, and dermal density with daily collagen peptide supplementation.

Joint health studies consistently report greater benefits in participants over 50, suggesting that collagen supplementation becomes increasingly valuable as natural production declines.

Quality Disparities in Collagen Supplements: What Distinguishes Effective Products

The collagen supplement market encompasses a vast spectrum of product quality, from basic powder blends to pharmaceutical-grade formulations. Understanding these distinctions proves essential for consumers seeking genuine health benefits.

Critical Quality Factors

Hydrolysis Process: Effective collagen supplements utilise specific enzymatic hydrolysis to create peptides with optimal molecular weights for absorption. Many budget products contain non-hydrolysed collagen or inadequately processed proteins with limited bioavailability.

Dosage Adequacy: Clinical studies supporting collagen benefits typically use 10,000-15,000mg daily doses. Many popular products contain only 2,000-5,000mg per serving, falling well short of therapeutic thresholds.

Supporting Nutrients: Collagen synthesis requires specific cofactors, particularly vitamin C, zinc, and copper. Premium formulations include these essential nutrients, whilst basic products often omit them entirely.

Purity Standards: Pharmaceutical-grade products undergo rigorous testing for contaminants, heavy metals, and microbiological safety. Food-grade supplements may not meet these stringent standards.

The Totally Derma Advantage

Totally Derma’s formulation addresses each quality parameter through evidence-based ingredient selection:

  • Arthred Collagen: Clinically-validated bovine collagen with proven bioavailability
  • Synovoderma Hyaluronic Acid: Pharmaceutical-grade hyaluronic acid for enhanced skin hydration
  • Essential Cofactors: Therapeutic doses of vitamin C, zinc, and copper
  • Synergistic Compounds: Green tea extract and additional antioxidants for comprehensive support
  • Purity Assurance: Sugar-free, allergen-free formulation meeting pharmaceutical standards

Realistic Expectations: Understanding Collagen Supplementation Timelines

Perhaps no aspect of collagen supplementation generates more confusion than expected timelines for visible results. Marketing claims suggesting overnight transformations conflict sharply with biological reality, creating unrealistic expectations that often lead to premature discontinuation.

The Science of Collagen Turnover

Collagen remodelling occurs through continuous synthesis and degradation processes. In skin tissue, complete collagen turnover requires approximately 4-6 months, though improvements in hydration and elasticity may become apparent within 4-8 weeks of consistent supplementation.

Joint cartilage undergoes even slower remodelling, with meaningful improvements typically requiring 8-12 weeks of regular supplementation. Gastrointestinal benefits may appear more rapidly, with some individuals reporting improved digestive comfort within 2-4 weeks.

Clinical Study Timelines

The majority of published collagen research utilises 8-12 week supplementation periods, with many studies extending to 24 weeks for comprehensive assessment. This scientific precedent supports the recommendation for minimum 90-day supplementation periods to achieve optimal benefits.

The Evidence-Based Approach to Collagen Supplementation

In an industry often characterised by hyperbolic marketing claims and pseudoscientific assertions, evidence-based products like Totally Derma represent a commitment to scientific integrity and therapeutic efficacy.

Quality collagen supplementation, when properly formulated with adequate dosages and essential cofactors, offers genuine benefits for skin health, joint function, digestive wellness, and overall tissue integrity. The key lies in selecting products backed by clinical research rather than marketing rhetoric.

For consumers seeking authentic wellness solutions, the choice becomes clear: invest in pharmaceutical-grade formulations with proven efficacy, or risk disappointment with products that prioritise profit margins over therapeutic outcomes.

The science of collagen supplementation continues evolving, but current research provides compelling evidence for its role in comprehensive health maintenance—provided that quality, dosage, and realistic expectations align with scientific understanding rather than commercial promises.

Jul 08
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What Happens to Your Body When You Stop Taking Collagen?

By Essential Reading, Health, Skin No Comments

Collagen supplements have become a staple in many wellness routines, offering benefits like smoother skin, stronger joints, and better gut health. But what if you stop taking collagen? Will your body hold on to the progress—or start slipping backward?

Here’s what really happens when you pause or stop collagen supplementation, and why consistency is the key to lasting results.

 What Collagen Does in Your Body

Collagen is the most abundant protein in your body. It forms the foundation of your skin, joints, bones, hair, nails, and connective tissues. As you age, your natural collagen production declines—by around 1% per year starting in your mid-20s, and even faster during menopause.

That’s where supplementation comes in. Hydrolyzed collagen peptides (like those found in Totally Derma) help replenish what your body can no longer make at the same rate.

So What Happens When You Stop?
 
Let’s break it down into what you may notice over time:
1. Skin May Lose Hydration and Elasticity
Collagen helps skin stay plump and firm. Without consistent intake, you may start to see:

  • Increased dryness

  • Loss of elasticity

  • More visible fine lines or wrinkles

 Note: These changes don’t happen overnight, but often within 4–8 weeks of stopping.

2. Joint Discomfort May Return
Many people take collagen to reduce stiffness or improve flexibility. Once you stop, those improvements can diminish gradually, especially if you’re active or aging.

Studies suggest that joint relief from collagen is most effective with long-term use, typically over 3+ months.

3. Gut Support May Decline

Collagen helps strengthen the intestinal lining and support overall digestive health. Without it, those with gut sensitivities (like bloating or inflammation) might notice a return of symptoms.
4. Nails and Hair Growth May Slow Down
Collagen can help support keratin production, which keeps your nails strong and hair shiny. Stopping may lead to:

  • More brittle nails

  • Increased hair thinning or slower growth

5. You May Lose the Momentum

A huge but often overlooked factor: habit disruption. Once you stop, it becomes easier to forget or delay restarting—especially if you don’t see instant side effects. Over time, your collagen stores continue to decline, making it harder to rebuild once lost.
The Case for Consistency
Collagen supplementation works gradually and cumulatively—think of it like brushing your teeth or going to the gym. You may not notice massive changes overnight, but consistency over time leads to real, visible, and functional improvements.

 Final Takeaway

Your body doesn’t suddenly collapse when you stop taking collagen—but over time, the benefits you’ve built up may fade. To maintain skin elasticity, joint mobility, gut integrity, and overall wellness, daily consistency matters.
Jun 26
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Why Collagen Types I, II & III Are Essential – And How to Get Them All in One Supplement

By Essential Reading, Health, Skin No Comments

In the world of health and beauty supplements, collagen is often celebrated as a go-to ingredient for youthful skin, strong joints, and overall vitality. But what many people don’t realise is that not all collagen is the same — and different types support different parts of the body.

The three most beneficial types for overall wellbeing are Type I, Type II, and Type III. Each plays a unique role, and together, they form a powerful foundation for looking and feeling your best.

So, what exactly does each type do — and why is it beneficial to take them together?

Collagen Type I: Supporting Skin, Bones, and Structure

Where it’s found: Skin, bones, tendons, ligaments, and teeth
What it supports: Skin firmness, bone strength, and the reduction of visible fine lines

Type I collagen is the most prevalent form in the human body. It’s the primary building block of the skin’s structure, helping to keep it smooth and resilient. It’s also vital for maintaining healthy bones, nails, and connective tissue.

Best for: Those looking to address signs of ageing, improve bone density, or enhance skin tone post-menopause.

Collagen Type II: Keeping Joints Comfortable and Flexible

Where it’s found: Cartilage
What it supports: Joint mobility, cushioning, and overall comfort in movement

Type II collagen plays a key role in maintaining healthy cartilage — the tissue that allows our joints to move smoothly. As we age or increase physical activity, joint discomfort can rise, making Type II especially important for mobility and joint longevity.

Best for: Athletes, those with active lifestyles, or anyone experiencing joint stiffness or discomfort.

Collagen Type III: Promoting Elasticity and Internal Health

Where it’s found: Skin, muscles, blood vessels, and internal organs
What it supports: Skin elasticity, gut lining integrity, muscle tone, and vascular health

Often found alongside Type I, Type III collagen adds elasticity to tissues and supports the repair and regeneration of organs and muscles. It’s also a key player in maintaining a healthy digestive tract lining — making it beneficial for gut health and recovery from physical exertion.

Best for: People noticing skin laxity, working on gut health, or recovering from physical stress or training.

Why Combining All Three Collagen Types Matters

Many collagen products only include one or two types — typically Type I or Type III — which limits their benefits. Choosing a supplement that contains all three types ensures more comprehensive support across the body. Here’s why a multi-type approach works better:

  • Comprehensive support: Targets skin, joints, and internal health in one formula
  • Improved outcomes: More noticeable changes in skin tone, joint flexibility, and overall resilience
  • Whole-body synergy: The three types work together to support the body’s structure from the inside out

Choosing a Complete Collagen Supplement

For those looking to address multiple areas — from visible signs of ageing to joint health and gut wellness — a supplement that blends Types I, II, and III is the most efficient solution. Totally Derma, for instance, offers a premium formulation that includes all three, developed to deliver real, measurable results.

Conclusion

Collagen is far more than a beauty buzzword. Understanding the specific roles of Types I, II, and III helps you make smarter choices when selecting a supplement. Rather than focusing on just one aspect of health, look for a formulation that covers the full spectrum — for radiant skin, strong joints, and a resilient body that feels as good as it looks.

Mar 09
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Integrating Totally Derma into Clinic

Integrating Totally Derma® into Clinic

By Essential Reading No Comments

Medical aesthetic practitioners may wish to consider including nutraceutical supplementation as an adjunct solution to support (invasive and non-invasive) aesthetic treatments, to ensure the best possible outcome of any procedures they undertake in clinic.

Totally Derma® benefits

Totally Derma® is a unique pharma-grade, nutraceutical supplement which supports anti-ageing of the skin from the inside; by stimulating the body’s optimum product of collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid, addressing both the physical signs of the ageing process and the underlying physiological processes.

The ingredients in Totally Derma® are digested and distributed via the blood vessels into the deeper layer of the dermis, where they multiply and stimulate fibroblast cells to produce more collagen and hyaluronic acid in the dermis.

Totally Derma® contains a world-renowned superior form of hydrolysed (bovine) collagen known as Arthred®. It contains 18 amino acids including: glycine, proline, hydroxylysine, lysine and hydroxyproline via a PHARMAGRADE manufacturing process in Germany.

Arthred® is enzymatically processed (meaning it is deemed as ‘pre-digested’ – the amino acids reach the small intestine, undamaged by digestive enzymes and are optimally absorbed there) which allows for a scientifically proven 95% absorption rate due to its tiny molecular size (3 kDa), this farexceeds regular collagen supplements which average a larger size of molecule (70 kDa) and therefore have inferior absorption.

This ensures the Arthred® collagen passes the gut barrier and is then distributed via the blood circulation to the fibroblasts, which are then clinically shown to be stimulated and increase their collagen production by fourfold. These fibroblasts are also shown to increase in size and number after consuming Arthred® for 4 weeks.

Totally Derma®also contains Synovoderma® Hyaluronic Acid which, like Arthred®, holds a 95% scientifically proven absorption level for maximum results. Most Hyaluronic Acid supplements are poorly absorbed and are therefore minimally effective. Synovoderma® is clinically shown to dramatically increase hydration within the skin and improve skin elasticity. These two key ingredients of Arthred® and Synovoderma® ensure the impressive increase of collagen and hydration as shown within TotallyDerma® skin study trials.

Totally Derma® also differs from other collagen supplements by addressing cross-linking issues with 5 key antioxidant ingredients.

Totally Derma inclusion in treatments (as an add on) as well as included in a treatment course / aesthetic devices

The aesthetic industry provides us with high quality injectables, highly effective active topical products, plus a whole array of high-tech lasers, facials, microdermabrasion devices, peels, microneedling, etc, which all help to stimulate and boost collagen in the skin, thus giving us a more youthful appearance.

Integrating Totally Derma into Clinic

As highly efficacious as these aesthetic solutions are, it is important to consider stimulating collagen from the inside, rather than just working externally. After all, collagen-producing fibroblast skin cells are found in the deeper layers of the skin, so it makes sense to also stimulate them from inside the body.

The biggest advantage to adding Totally Derma® with aesthetic treatments, is that collagen and hyaluronic acid are increased all over the body, not just in a targeted area so it really does enhance general well being. The overall skin quality of the body improves, as do general joint achesand pains, in addition, clients comment that their hair and nails are much healthier and stronger. Women in their menopausal years can also experience a relief in vaginal dryness and discomfort.

From a gut-health point of view, the biggest digestive benefit of consuming more collagen is that it helps form connective tissue and therefore “seals and heals” the protective lining of the gastrointestinal tract. This can produce improvements in skin conditions like cystic-acne, rosacea and eczema if the root cause is poor gut health and not hormonal.

Integrating Totally Derma into Clinic

Totally Derma partnered with collagen stimulating injectables

Whilst many patients seek out injectable treatments to balance their facial features and replace lost volume,aesthetic practitioners may wish to address any inflammatory issues that may be occurring simultaneously. Physiological and aesthetic issues are caused by inflammation in the body which can show up on the skin.

The words “anti-inflammatory” have been over-used, however, the use of anti-inflammatory ingredients in effectively formulated products will help to prevent harmful inflammation and premature aging.

Boley Nutraceuticals Ltd., the developers of Branded Totally Derma® have specifically designed a nutraceutical formulation to help reduce inflammation in both the skin and the body. A formulation that contains specific ingredients in specific dosages which can really help with this problem.

Totally Derma partnered with skin peels

Hormone-appropriate supplements are usually recommended for skin peel recovery, as are the latest active ingredients. However, oral antioxidants can exert a generalised benefit, being steady and subtle, but undoubtedly profound. Crucially oral antioxidants contribute to rapidand strong wound healing post peel.

Integrating Totally Derma into Clinic

To complete its anti-ageing, skin healing properties, Totally Derma® also contains an additional seven critical co-factors which further enhance the benefits of oral collagen and hyaluronic acid. These include 5 powerful antioxidants: GrapeSeed Extract, Green Tea extract, Vitamin C, Alpha Lipoic Acid, Zinc, Manganese and Copper.

The combination of all these ingredients not only help to make more collagen in the skin but they also assist in repairing skin damage and inflammation.

Totally Derma as part of a homecare regime

Today’s busy lifestyles don’t always allow for adequate fresh organic green vegetables or a wholly raw food diet, so it is important to integrate solutions that provide the richest possible source of absorbable, active nutrients.

When it comes to a homecare skincare regime, two mainstays are corrective (antioxidants to neutralise free-radical damage) and protective (the use of adequate physical or chemical sun protection).

Totally Derma® is a total nutraceutical (oral) solution containing therapeutic dosages of bovine collagen amino acid peptides, hyaluronic acid, antioxidants, vitamins and minerals – all are essential components of a therapeutic skincare regime.

Integrating Totally Derma into Clinic

Totally Derma® is an effective, natural product especially great for those who are 35 years plus, as part of their skincare regime. Totally Derma® is really easy to take, just one scoop mixed in water before bedevery day is all that’s needed. It is pleasant tasting and easy to incorporate into the bedtime routine. Consuming it at night helps to take advantage of the body’s own optimal collagen production which happens in the first few hours of sleep.

Dec 13
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Totally Derma for Menopause

TOTALLY DERMA® FOR MENOPAUSE

By Essential Reading, Health No Comments

The Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM) is a term that is used to describe the various menopausal symptoms that transpire due to physical changes in the vulva, vagina, and lower urinary tract. GSM affects women’s bodies in many ways, subsequently impacting the quality of life and relationships. Common GSM signs include genital symptoms, such as vaginal dryness, burning, and irritation; sexual symptoms, such as lack of lubrication, discomfort, or pain during or after sex; as well as urinary symptoms, including stress and urge incontinence, and recurrent urinary tract infections.

Even though GSM is estimated to affect the well-being of more than 70% of women worldwide, it is rarely talked about and many women do not seek treatment. GSM symptoms can have a profound negative impact on physical and mental health, as well as on one’s quality of life and mobility. For instance, urinary symptoms such as stress urinary incontinence and urge incontinence result in many women relying on expensive absorbent underwear or limiting their outings from home in case they have an accident. Vaginal symptoms such as dryness, irritation, and painful sex can affect relationships, with many women having to abstain from having sex or experiencing discomfort and pain during or after sex. In addition to distressing GSM symptoms, women around the age of menopause also notice considerable changes to their appearance, especially skin, hair, nails, and joints. This is due to the sharp drop in collagen production, which leads to dehydrated and textured skin, loss of hair, brittle nails, and joint pain.

Given the previous efficacy of Totally Derma® nutraceutical collagen drink supplement in improving skin texture and supplying collagen to the body, we were curious to see if ingesting Totally Derma® would improve the GSM symptoms along with skin, hair, nail, and joints health in menopausal women. In the following trial, eight women were instructed to take Totally Derma®, a hydrolysed bovine collagen supplement, at night for 12 weeks. The formulation of Totally Derma® Nutraceutical Drink Supplement contains high amounts of collagen amino acid peptides, hyaluronic acid, and other synergistic co-factors which are distributed via the blood vessels into the deep layer of the skin, the dermis, where they stimulate fibroblast cells to produce more collagen and hyaluronic acid. This unique formulation contains a superior form of hydrolysed collagen, Arthred®, sourced via Gelita, AG, the collagen peptide experts. Totally Derma® has been specially formulated to reduce inflammation in the body to improve skin, hair, nail, joints, gut, bones, and menopausal health.

In this 3-month study, seven of the eight participating women were post-menopause, one was perimenopausal, and the average age was 51. Five women were using transdermal or oral HRT, in addition, one was using ovestin, one was using vagirux and one was using a DHEA supplement. The participants were asked to rate the severity of their GSM symptoms (vaginal dryness, pain during or after sex, bleeding after sex, stress urinary and urge incontinence and external genital irritation) together with the improvements in their skin, hair, nail, and joints health.

While it is a small study, the participating women have reported a 70% improvement in all GSM symptoms. Moreover, 7 of 8 women reported an improvement in their skin, nail, hair, and joint health. All women reported that bleeding after sex has stopped and all women also saw an improvement in skin hydration, skin texture and nail strength. Six women reported that their stress urinary incontinence had improved and five women said that their urge incontinence subsided as well. Six out of eight participating women have seen relief in their labial symptoms, with one experiencing no symptoms at all. Moreover, five women saw better hair growth, and three women reported a good to moderate relief in their joint pain.

You can find the comments of the women who participated in the trial below:

“Everything improved! The Vulva and Vagina have improved incredibly (a tiny bit sore still but nothing as bad as they were before Totally Derma®. The improvement started after 2 months and continues to improve every day.“

“Hurrah!! I am having pain free sex for the first time in a very long time with no bleeding afterwards. Vaginal lubrication is so much better, it is amazing to finally feel comfortable as I was so worried that my sex life was over the way it was so painful before. I am so thankful to Totally Derma®, it has transformed my life.”

“I have noticed my labia is much more comfortable and I am able to reduce the amount of Ovestin I use now, internally and externally.“

“I feel my body articulation has overall improved the longer I take it. My joints are more supple. I also feel much better hydration in my skin and vagina. It definitely takes time, patience is required but I feel my skin is smoother and firmer. Stronger nails were one of the first things I noticed as well as stronger hair. This collagen-boosting supplement is something I’ll be taking for life.”

“Skin is consistently hydrated and texture more smooth, the sporadic itchiness on my arms and legs I had been getting has stopped, feeling more fluid movement in my body.”

“My hair also feels strong and is growing fast and feels thick and soft. I am not losing it like I was before.”

“My skin is wonderful on my face with my hormonal acne now totally gone with only a little dark scaring (not sure if this will improve over time) The skin on my body is less dry with only a little itching on my arms.”

Sep 17
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Gut Skin Connection Acne

THE GUT-SKIN CONNECTION – 3 MONTH CYSTIC ACNE SKIN TRIAL – A PATIENT’S JOURNEY WITH TOTALLY DERMA®

By Skin No Comments

Maintaining healthy, blemish-free, and youthful skin can be challenging, as so many internal and environmental factors impact our skin on a daily basis. While many of us know that diet and nutrition play a big role in skin health, the effect that gut bacteria can have on one’s skin is widely underestimated. Many illnesses, including skin conditions, such as acne, dermatitis, psoriasis, and more, can actually be traced back to inflammation or irritation stemming from an unhealthy gut. Therefore, addressing gut issues and healing from the inside can be the missing piece in the puzzle of clearing your skin!

For the gut to heal and rebalance itself, it needs amino acids to fuel and repair the damaged cells. Collagen is packed with huge servings of the types of amino acids our GI tract (gut wall) feeds on to repair itself. These super-nutrient amino acids help form connective tissue and therefore “seal and heal” the protective lining of the gut. Collagen has also been shown to reinforce the gut by making it more resistant to elastic stretching. This resistance is very important as excessive stretching makes the cells that comprise the gut lining misalign or sit further apart, which may eventually make the gut “leaky”. The fascinating blend of amino acids or protein building blocks in collagen also helps to regulate stomach acid levels, aids with digestion and bowel movements, and improves the bacterial balance in the gut microbiome. By keeping the gut healthy and balanced, collagen may help treat the causal issues of skin conditions, such as cystic acne from the inside.

Enzymatically processed, hydrolysed collagen, is the main ingredient in our Totally Derma® Nutraceutical Collagen Drink Supplement. It has been specially formulated to reduce inflammation in the body to improve skin, hair, nail, joint, gut, bone, and menopausal health. Totally Derma® uses hydrolysed collagen that is absorbed by our gut more easily as the large collagen molecules are broken down into smaller amino acid peptide form. We also use bovine collagen, which is best for leaky gut as it resembles the collagen found in our GI tract.

Inspired by the gut-skin communication and the role that collagen plays in it, we recruited a patient diagnosed with cystic acne to undergo a 3-month trial of ingesting Totally Derma® to see if it could help treat her skin. The candidate had tried using both oral and topical antibiotics as well as various acne treatments but didn’t notice any improvements. She kindly agreed to document her journey through pictures and a mini-journal, and the highlights of both can be found below:

Baseline (January 2021) photo

Week 1: “A drastic improvement after just one week! The infection is still there however the cysts were flatter than they had been in months. The swelling and redness had decreased as well as the pain. For the first time in months, I have hope that this will get better.”

Week 6: “I would say this is the best my skin has looked in a VERY long time and the happiest I have felt since being diagnosed with cystic acne. The largest and more problematic cyst on my lower right cheek is starting to shrink down drastically. I am noticing that I am getting far fewer new spots.”

Week 6 photo

Week 7/ Week 8: “My cysts have pretty much completely cleared up! I have had no drastic break outs in weeks. I have even treated myself to a ‘make up day’ here and there. My make-up is sitting smooth to my face now that my cysts aren’t raised, and the dry skin has cleared up.”

Week 11: “I feel like the infection itself is completely done and I am just left with scarring now. The scarring is getting better week by week. I am over the moon!”

Week 12: “Today marks the end of my 12-week course. I am so happy with the results. I am so relieved to have found the answer. My skin is clear of infection with just some scarring left, which is already starting to heal too. When I look back at the “before” pictures I honestly cannot believe that’s what I used to look like.”

Week 12 photo

After the trial had ended, the candidate reported that her skin remained clear for 2 months but 3 months after stopping Totally Derma® her acne had returned, however not nearly as aggressive as before the trial. While this pioneer clinical study is only based on the experience of one patient, it is a very exciting piece of research demonstrating the significance of the gut-skin connection and showing how the causal issues of cystic acne can be treated internally via the gut.

Aug 25
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Holistic Health

Is holistic health and wellbeing right for you?

By Health No Comments

An increasing number of people are embracing holistic health services now more than ever. The pandemic has highlighted the need to maintain good health, address certain health issues or generally work on boosting the immune system.

Healthcare needs to move more towards a patient centred approach as opposed to the current symptom centred model that does not address the needs of the patient holistically.

While conventional healthcare practices are essential for acute and in emergency situations, there are other options for long standing and chronic conditions.

Here are some case studies which demonstrate how a holistic approach changed patients’ lives.

Female, aged 32 – upper and lower gastrointestinal symptoms for 6 months. A breath test diagnosed SIBO, an overgrowth of bad bacteria in the small intestine. A course of antibiotics was prescribed, and symptoms ceased for 3 weeks. After 3 weeks, symptoms gradually returned, returning to pre-treatment severity after several weeks. Due to the high strength of the antibiotics, a repeat prescription was not an option. Patient was advised to follow a low FODMAP diet which is a diet low in fermentable carbohydrates and usually prescribed for patients suffering with IBS. The diet made no difference to her symptoms. It’s at this point that the patient searched for a nutritionist who had experience with treating gut conditions and was advised to follow a restricted diet for four weeks, followed by a course of herbal antibiotics and a slow reintroduction of foods under the nutritionist’s guidance to determine which foods aggravated her. Other gut healing supplementswere prescribed and with these and the removal of aggravating foods, patient is now symptom free and feels well again.

Male, aged 51 – lower back pain from a sports injury which was not improving after 3 weeks. GP referred to a physiotherapist who administered treatment and gave some exercises to do at home. Patient wanted quicker results and was recommended an acupuncturist by a friend. Patient had two acupuncture treatments a week alongside the physiotherapy and was pain free after another month of treatment.

Child, aged 4 – eczema since shortly after birth – no improvement from creams/treatments prescribed by the GP or consultant. Sought the support of a homeopath to get to the root of the issue. After an initial consultation and in-depth history from the parents around the birth and health of mother and father, remedies were prescribed and follow up after four weeks was suggested. At the follow-up, 70% of the eczema had cleared up, a further remedy was prescribed which took into consideration the symptoms and temperament of the child at the appointment. After another 4 weeks, the eczema had gone and hasn’t returned to date, child is now 8.

These are just a few examples of when a holistic or integrated approach speeded up the desired result or provided an alternative when conventional treatment failed to provide the desired result. It’s not always as quick and as easy as these cases, but it often doesn’t take long to start seeing improvements when you are receiving the right treatment for your specific needs.

Is holistic health right for you? If you would like further information or suggestions on which practitioners may be able to support you on your journey, search on Holistic Room today or email us at hello@holisticroom.com, let us know what you are struggling with and we will send you relevant links to some practitioners you can connect with.

Did you know that you have a second brain that impacts your whole health? Download our FREE guide to learn where it is and what you can do to boost it and in turn your overall health.

Guest Post written by Holistic Room
This blog first appeared on the Holistic Room at holisticroom.com

Mar 27
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18 Amino Acids in Bovine Collagen

The 18 amino acids in bovine collagen and how they can improve your health

By Health No Comments

While there are 18 amino acids in bovine collagen, it is the presence of key amino acids that lends the majority of the perks: glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline.

These three amino acids are crucial building blocks of collagen, tendons, and ligaments and have been shown to support health in a number of other ways, such as promoting normal inflammatory processes and supporting immune function.*

L-Glycine is an essential amino acid, meaning that your body needs it, but cannot produce it on its own. It is an immune system booster as it helps build antibodies and has important antiviral properties.

Totally Derma® Collagen contains this important amino acid, and as a result, by taking 10,000mg of collagen daily you are boosting your immune system.

*ABSTRACT

Curr Opin Clin Nutr Metab Care. 2003 Mar;6(2):229-40.

L-Glycine: a novel anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and cytoprotective agent.

Zhong Z1, Wheeler MD, Li X, Froh M, Schemmer P, Yin M, Bunzendaul H, Bradford B, Lemasters JJ.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW:

In recent years, evidence has mounted in favour of the anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory and cytoprotective effects of the simplest amino acid L-glycine.

This article will focus on the recent findings about the responsible mechanisms of protection and review the beneficial effects of glycine in different disease states.

Read more here: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12589194

Totally Derma® collagen peptides have an exceptional absorption rate via the small intestine; the peptides that are consumed circulate through the body’s bloodstream instead of going through the digestive tract.

Since Totally Derma® is broken down to a low molecular level, this ensures that the amino acids and nutrients are easily and quickly, absorbed into the bloodstream.

Please contact us if you would like further information, clinical studies, or would like to become one of our Clinic Partners.

We would love to hear from you.

Please stay safe and well.

Feb 12
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3000-10000 mg Hydrolysed Collagen

“Look for 3,000-10,000mg hydrolysed collagen in your collagen supplements for the best results”

By Testimonials No Comments

“A few years ago when collagen supplements came out, I was quite sceptical whether these worked, because there were SO many collagen supplements. But now we have a reasonable body of scientific evidence to support the results that are given by collagen supplements. But it is important to look at the label and look for hydrolysed collagen and to have between 3,000-10,000mg hydrolysed collagen and expect a result to start showing at 12 weeks. So you do need 3 months of taking hydrolysed collagen in a specific dosage to start seeing an improvement.

So, what’s the sort of improvement you should expect after taking supplements for 3 months? Collagen is nothing more than a structural protein of the skin and it gives skin hydration, elasticity and firmness. As we lose collagen, we lose about 1.5% collagen for every year of our lives and for women who are menopausal, they have the most dramatic loss of collagen in the first 5 years after the menopause where they can lose about 30% of collagen. They suddenly see that their skin goes dull, dry, wrinkly, lined and it loses its firmness and appears to sag. And this is when collagen supplements can really help.
Drink one every morning (try not to have it with your tea or coffee and keep a 30 minute interval between having them. Because of the way collagen works, it simulates the body’s repair or wound healing responses so I find collagen supplements are excellent for patients who are undergoing surgical procedures. Skin tightening procedures like tixel, plexr or nano plasma – all these treatments are aimed at encouraging the production of collagen. By giving the body hydrolysed collagen, it encourages further production of collagen and the wound healing.”