Collagen, Consistency and Habit Hacking with Alessandra Steinherr

Wondering how a beauty expert with a multi-step skincare and wellness routine stays consistent? For beauty journalist Alessandra Steinherr, it’s all about keeping things simple.

As a seasoned Beauty Director, brand founder and certified skincare expert, Alessandra Steinherr knows a thing or two about curating a routine that works. Her plump, even and smooth skin is no accident and amongst her trademark easy-to-adopt skincare solutions sits Vida Glow’s marine collagen.

Ahead of our 21-Day Collagen Challenge, we chatted with her about her collagen story, from the first sachet to years of consistent use, to nab her tried and trusted tips for staying consistent – and exactly what happens to your skin, hair and nails when you do.

How did you first discover collagen?

It was during lockdown, nearly five years ago now. I had heard about ingestible collagen and was curious, but I never fully committed to trying it. Then, with nowhere to go and plenty of time on my hands, I thought, this is the perfect moment to test it out properly. I started taking Vida Glow Marine Collagen every day. It felt like a small act of self-care during a time when everything else felt a bit chaotic.

Can you remember when you first started to see visible results? How long did it take, and what were they?

Yes, I actually can! It was around six weeks in. I noticed my hair and nails were growing faster than usual—something I’d never really experienced before. At the time, I wasn’t doing anything else for beauty—no manis, no treatments—so I knew it had to be down to the collagen.

Since being consistent with your routine, how have your skin, hair, and nails transformed?

Oh, it’s been such a game-changer. My nails, which were always weak and prone to splitting, are now strong. My hair feels healthy and is definitely shinier, and my skin looks plump and hydrated. It’s the kind of improvement that doesn’t happen overnight, but when I look at photos from five years ago versus now, the difference is undeniable. Consistency has really paid off.

Any tips on how you stay consistent with your beauty routine?

Honestly, I think the key to consistency is seeing results. When you notice something working, it’s so much easier to stick with it. For me, taking my collagen every morning is as natural as brushing my teeth—it’s just part of my routine now. I also keep it easy: I mix it into my water or morning coffee so I never forget. My advice? Find a way to integrate it into your day-to-day life so it feels effortless.

How do you approach starting new habits?

I’m all about making things simple and accessible. If a new habit feels overwhelming or like too much effort, I know I won’t stick to it. For me, it’s about creating small, manageable steps. For example, when I started with collagen, I didn’t overhaul my entire routine—I just added it in as one easy thing I could do every day. Over time, it became second nature.

Any new habits you’re working on for 2025?

Yes, exercise. I have to be honest—I’m terrible at it. I don’t enjoy it, and I’ve always found reasons to avoid it. But as I get older, I realise how important it is—not just for looking good, but for my overall physical and mental health. In 2025, I want to make it a priority. My plan is to start small and build from there. It’s not about perfection—it’s about progress. And just like with collagen, I’m hoping that once I start seeing the benefits, I’ll be motivated to keep going.

Need help staying consistent?

Creating a new habit isn’t always simple but it is rewarding. Vida Glow’s 21-Day Collagen Challenge has been created to help you stay accountable with community support, expert content and a little extra motivation to stay on track in the form of bonus loyalty points and prizes.

Already joined? Keep up with the VG Insiders Facebook Group for more of the fun.