Beauty treatment made from horses’ tendons
A new anti-ageing treatment made from horses’ tendons does not have any negative impact on equine welfare, its manufacturers insist.
Launched this month in Britain, Nithya is powdered equine collagen, mixed with water to create a solution which is then injected into areas such as the cheeks and under the eyes.
Its manufacturers Vida Aesthetics say it is safe, with no side-effects — and assured H&H that horses’ welfare is not compromised to make the product.
“In Italy and France, horse meat is as popular as beef or pork in the UK,” said Vida Aesthetics director Eddy Emilio.
“The tendons are a by-product that isn’t needed, which is bought from the abattoirs.
“We’ve had people trolling us online but they have no idea – these horses aren’t hurt [to obtain the collagen].
“This product has been used by hospitals for a long time, for medical reasons; now it’s being used for aesthetic reasons too.”
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Mr Emilio said the treatment stimulates the production of new collagen, the loss of which leads to wrinkles, therefore making skin appear smoother. The effects can last for up to a year.
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Animal collagen has been used to treat wounds for some 30 years, supporting the development of new cells at the affected areas, but this is the first time it has been used for cosmetic purposes.
“This is the only commercially available type I collagen intended for aesthetic use in the country, and we’re already getting rave reviews from cosmetic doctors thanks to its excellent results in improving appearance in numerous areas,” Mr Emilio added.
“The idea of using protein sourced from horses may seem quirky, but we’re certain this is the future of anti-ageing.”
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Eleanor is an experienced journalist who spent over eight years working for local and national newspapers before joining H&H as news editor in March 2016. Passionate about equine welfare and exposing the truth, Eleanor has reported on all aspects of the industry, from Brexit to anti-bullying campaigns, and from dressage rules to mules. Her sport of choice is showjumping, in which she competes her own horses, and she also enjoys reporting at local jumping shows through to international championships.