Bone broth has become a popular inclusion in many wellness routines across Australia. You’ll see it featured in recipes, skincare conversations, and wellness blogs. But what exactly is bone broth, and how is it linked to skin care?
At MedCart Australia, we aim to provide our customers with up-to-date information so they can make informed decisions when choosing beauty and wellness products—without medical claims, just facts and science.
What Is Bone Broth?
Bone broth is made by simmering animal bones (such as chicken, beef, or fish) with water, vinegar, and vegetables for an extended period—usually 12 to 24 hours. This slow cooking process releases proteins, amino acids, and minerals from the bones and connective tissues into the broth.
Common Ingredients:
- Beef or chicken bones (preferably with joints and skin)
- Vinegar (helps extract minerals)
- Vegetables like carrots, celery, onions
- Water and herbs
The result is a nutrient-dense liquid that’s used in cooking, sipping, or even as a base for sauces and stews.
What’s In Bone Broth?
When made properly, bone broth contains:
- Collagen – a structural protein found in animal bones and connective tissue
- Gelatin – a cooked form of collagen that dissolves in liquid
- Amino acids – such as glycine, proline, and glutamine
- Minerals – like calcium, magnesium, potassium, and phosphorus (in small amounts)
These ingredients are naturally released during the simmering process. Let’s explore how each one is linked to skin care practices and skin-focused routines:
- Collagen
- What it is: Collagen is a structural protein found in animal skin, bones, and connective tissue. It holds things together — like scaffolding for your skin.
- Role in skincare routines: Collagen is known for its firming and structural support in skin layers. Over time, the body's collagen levels may naturally decrease, which is why collagen-rich foods or supplements are often included in skin-supporting diets.
- Bone broth connection: While whole collagen breaks down during cooking, it provides the building blocks (amino acids) that are involved in collagen production.
- Gelatin
- What it is: Gelatin is simply cooked collagen. When you simmer bones, collagen turns into gelatin, which gives broth its jiggly or thick texture when cooled.
- Role in skincare routines: Gelatin contains amino acids like glycine and proline, which are involved in skin structure and elasticity.
- Bone broth connection: People often include gelatin-rich broths in food routines that support smooth, plump-looking skin.
- Amino Acids (Glycine, Proline, Glutamine)
These are the building blocks of protein and each has a role in general skin structure:
- Glycine: Supports protein structure in skin and is often included in collagen supplements. It is also involved in producing glutathione, which helps manage oxidative stress.
- Proline: A key component used by the body to build collagen proteins. Found naturally in bones and connective tissue.
- Glutamine: Helps maintain the integrity of the skin’s barrier and is often part of skin and gut-supporting routines.
While your body makes amino acids on its own, consuming them through foods like bone broth is a natural way to supplement your intake.
- Minerals (Calcium, Magnesium, Potassium, Phosphorus)
- What they are: These are essential minerals naturally released from bones during simmering. While bone broth is not a high source of these minerals, they may still be present in small amounts.
- Why they matter in skin routines:
- Calcium: Supports skin renewal and function
- Magnesium: Often included in products focused on calming skin
- Potassium: Helps with water balance in the body, which may impact skin hydration
- Phosphorus: Involved in cell function, including skin cells
Bone Broth and Collagen: What’s the Connection?
Bone broth and collagen are closely linked. Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body, found in skin, bones, tendons, and ligaments. When collagen-rich bones are simmered in water for hours, the collagen breaks down into gelatin, which contains amino acids.
According to the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS), collagen and gelatin are used in some sports and recovery settings to support tissue structure when paired with nutrients like vitamin C (AIS.gov.au).
So while bone broth does not deliver intact collagen molecules (as they are broken down by heat), it provides the building blocks of collagen — amino acids like glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline.
Why Collagen Matters in Skincare
Collagen plays a structural role in the skin. It helps form a framework for skin layers and contributes to their strength and flexibility. As people age, collagen production naturally decreases, which may change the skin’s appearance and texture over time.
That’s why collagen-containing or collagen-supporting products, such as bone broth, are sometimes included in beauty and skin-focused routines. In Australia, both food-based sources (like bone broth) and topical skincare products that support collagen synthesis are part of a growing beauty trend.
Does Bone Broth Actually Clear Skin?
Short answer: Bone broth is not a treatment or cure for skin conditions. However, it is often included in broader lifestyle routines that aim to support overall skin appearance and clarity. Let’s explore why it’s commonly linked with skin clarity.
Why People Associate Bone Broth with Clear Skin
While bone broth doesn’t directly “clear” skin, there are a few reasons people include it in their routines when aiming for a healthier-looking complexion:
1. Contains Nutrients Involved in Skin Structure
Bone broth contains:
- Gelatin – a form of cooked collagen
- Amino acids – like glycine and proline, which help form structural proteins
- Hydration-friendly compounds – many people consume broth as part of their daily liquid intake
These elements are commonly associated with skin health, which may be why broth is seen as a supportive part of skincare routines.
Reference: Australian Institute of Sport – Sports Supplement Framework (2022), which discusses collagen and amino acids as part of tissue support when used with a balanced diet and vitamin C.
AIS.gov.au
2. Fits Well into Balanced Routines
People looking to support their skin often reduce processed foods and include more whole foods, water, and nutrient-rich meals. Bone broth can naturally complement such a routine because:
- It’s simple and whole-food based
- It’s easy to make or buy in ready-to-use forms
- It can replace processed snack drinks or salty soups
These indirect benefits may contribute to why some people say their skin feels or looks better after regular use.
3. Common in “Gut-Friendly” Diets
Some people follow wellness routines that focus on gut health, and bone broth is often part of that. While the connection between gut health and skin clarity is still being studied, it is a growing area of interest in nutrition and dermatology research.
Important: Bone broth is not a treatment for acne, eczema, or other skin conditions.
So, What Are the Actual Benefits?
Here’s a safe and claim-free summary of how bone broth is commonly used:
Aspect |
Why It’s Used |
Whole food source |
Made from natural ingredients like bones and veggies |
Amino acid content |
Source of proteins used in structural body tissues |
Dietary support |
Fits well into simple, balanced meal routines |
Easy hydration |
Offers a warm drink alternative |
Versatile use |
Can be sipped, cooked with, or used in daily meals |
How to Enjoy Bone Broth for Clearer Skin Habits
Here are simple ways Australians include bone broth into skin-friendly routines:
- Morning sip: Replace your morning tea with a warm cup of bone broth
- Evening wind-down: A calming, savoury drink to end the day
- Cooking base: Use broth instead of water for grains or soups
Pair bone broth with:
- A colourful variety of vegetables and fruits
- Regular water intake
- A gentle skincare routine (such as products from MedCart’s Beauty & Wellness range)
Where to Buy Bone Broth in Australia
Looking to try bone broth as part of your skincare or wellness routine?
At MedCart Australia, you’ll find a curated selection of bone broth products from trusted Australian brands—all in one convenient place. Whether you prefer powder, concentrate, or ready-made sippable options, we’ve got you covered.
Why Buy from MedCart?
- ✅ Australian-based online marketplace
- ✅ Trusted suppliers and distributors
- ✅ Wide selection of beauty, wellness, and pharmacy products
- ✅ Convenient delivery across Australia
- ✅ One-stop shop for your skin, health, and home care needs
Featured Bone Broth Products on MedCart
Here are a few customer favourites available now:
- Nutra Organics Beef Bone Broth – Hearty Original- A savoury powder made from Australian grass-fed beef bones, ideal for sipping or adding to meals.
- Nutra Organics Chicken Bone Broth – Garden Herb- A nourishing blend with aromatic herbs—quick to prepare and perfect for daily routines.
- The Broth Sisters Organic Bone Broth Concentrate- A concentrated format with bold flavour—just stir into hot water and enjoy.
Tip: Always read the product label for ingredient and preparation details.
Ready to Shop?
Visit MedCart Australia to browse our full collection of bone broth and other beauty & wellness products. Whether you’re starting fresh or topping up your pantry, MedCart makes it easy to shop local, shop trusted, and shop smarter.