Why I Recommend Essential Radiance Vegan Collagen to My Patients and Use It Myself

As a dermatology PA, I talk about collagen almost daily. Most people know it as the “beauty protein” that helps skin look firm and smooth. What they don’t always realize is that collagen is also a building block for your joints, connective tissue, muscles, and even plays a role in your energy levels and quality of sleep.

The tricky part is that collagen production starts to slow in our mid-20s. By the time women reach their 40s and 50s, hormonal changes can speed that decline even more. 

That’s often when I hear complaints about skin that feels thinner, joints that are stiffer in the morning, slower workout recovery, and fatigue that lingers.

When that happens, my goal isn’t just to “add collagen” … it’s to help the body start making more of its own. One of my top recommendations for this is City Beauty’s Essential Radiance Vegan Collagen.

The benefits I’ve seen (In myself and my patients)

From my own experience and what patients report back, here’s what stands out:

• Firmer, smoother skin that looks more resilient.
• Less morning stiffness and easier movement throughout the day.
• Steadier energy without the midday slump.
• Reduced carb cravings, often linked to better blood sugar balance.
• Better sleep and recovery, thanks to tart cherry (supports natural melatonin production) and glycine (promotes calm and faster sleep onset).

I started noticing subtle changes in skin texture, hair strength, and nail resilience in as little as 4 weeks of consistent use. By week 8, everyone else was noticing the results as well.

However, remember that collagen production is a slow process, so give your body time. And make sure you’re consistent.  

Why this formula is different

Essential Radiance is 100% plant-based. Instead of adding animal collagen, it uses a targeted blend of nutrients to help your body produce collagen naturally. I’m talking about:

• Vitamin C for collagen synthesis.
• Hyaluronic acid to support skin hydration.
• Plant-based amino acids are used to actually create collagen proteins.
• Tart cherry to support a healthy inflammation response.
• Glycine to support sleep onset. 

This matters even more for women in perimenopause or post-menopause, when collagen loss can accelerate. The formula was designed to support skin, joints, connective tissue, and metabolism. 

What I wish more people understood about collagen

One of the less-talked-about effects of collagen decline is how it can impact metabolism. When connective tissue weakens, recovery slows, and activity often drops. That can lead to changes in metabolism over time.

Essential Radiance includes nutrients that support energy production at the cellular level. By helping your body work more efficiently, you can make daily movement feel easier and more sustainable.

How I make it part of my day

I always tell patients that consistency is everything with collagen support. Essential Radiance comes in single-serve stick packs, which makes it simple to take every day. Just mix with water or add it to a smoothie. It’s lightly flavored (peach berry), travels well, and fits easily into my routine. 

Who I recommend it for

I find it especially helpful for:

• Women in their 40s, 50s, and beyond who want to support skin, joints, and energy.
• Active women who want faster recovery and fewer aches.
• Anyone noticing fatigue, slower metabolism, or disrupted sleep.
• Those who prefer a vegan, plant-based approach to collagen support.

My professional take

As a Dermatologist PA, I’m very picky about what I suggest to patients and about what I take myself. City Beauty’s Essential Radiance Vegan Collagen is backed by thoughtful formulation, high-quality ingredients, and results I’ve seen firsthand.

If your goal is to help your body produce more collagen for a firmer, healthier look and increased energy, this is a smart and simple place to start.