We spend so much time protecting our skin from the sun, eating foods that support healthy aging, and even investing in skincare that promises to boost collagen. But one thing we often overlook is what we’re drinking. The beverages we sip throughout the day can have a surprisingly big impact on collagen production and, in turn, on the health and appearance of our skin. Because drinks go down so easily and are such a regular part of our routines, it’s easy to consume too much of something that quietly undermines your skin’s firmness and glow.
If maintaining youthful, resilient skin is one of your goals, paying attention to what you drink is just as important as watching what you eat. Drinks high in sugar, caffeine, or certain acids can dehydrate the skin, spike inflammation, and actually break down collagen faster. To help protect your complexion from the inside out, here are five common beverages that can deplete collagen and leave your skin looking less smooth and radiant.
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1. Soda
Regular soda is one of the biggest collagen destroyers in disguise. Packed with refined sugar and high-fructose corn syrup, it triggers glycation—a process where sugar molecules attach to collagen fibers and make them stiff, brittle, and more prone to breaking down. Over time, this can lead to sagging skin and deeper wrinkles. The acidity in soda also weakens tooth enamel and contributes to inflammation in the body, which can further accelerate visible aging.
2. Diet Soda
Even though diet soda skips the sugar, it’s far from skin-friendly. Artificial sweeteners like aspartame and sucralose have been linked to increased oxidative stress, which can damage collagen and elastin. Diet sodas are also highly acidic, potentially depleting important minerals that help keep skin firm and hydrated. Some studies have even raised concerns about a connection between long-term artificial sweetener use and certain cancers, making it a drink best avoided for your overall health—not just your complexion.
3. Orange Juice
Though it’s rich in vitamin C—a nutrient essential for collagen production—store-bought orange juice often contains large amounts of added sugar. This extra sugar can offset the benefits of the vitamin C by spiking insulin levels and fueling glycation. For the best of both worlds, opt for freshly squeezed juice in moderation or eat whole oranges instead.
4. Energy Drinks
Energy drinks are a double threat to collagen. They combine high doses of caffeine, which dehydrates the skin, with loads of sugar that lead to inflammation and glycation. Many also contain additives and preservatives that can trigger stress responses in the body, further speeding up the collagen breakdown process. Over time, this combination can make skin appear dull, tired, and less elastic.
5. Alcohol
Alcohol accelerates skin aging in several ways. It’s dehydrating, which leaves skin looking dull and emphasizes fine lines. Chronic drinking raises inflammation levels and can dilate blood vessels, causing redness and uneven tone. Over time, excessive alcohol intake breaks down collagen and elastin, leading to sagging, thinner skin. Limiting alcohol can help your skin retain its natural plumpness and glow.
