Collagen is considered an essential miracle cure for the skin — whether taken internally as a dietary supplement or as an ingredient in your skincare routine. But what's behind collagen's reputation? Here, we'll take a closer look at collagen and reveal what its benefits are all about.
What Is Collagen and Why Is it so Important?
Collagen occurs naturally in our body as a structural protein and plays an important role in skin, bones, joints and tendons.
It is produced in the middle layer of the skin (dermis) and has a fibrous texture – it therefore acts as a stable framework for our cells, such as skin cells.
At the same time, collagen binds water, giving our skin volume and stability. It reduces the risk of injury and aids its healing. However, there are different types of collagen that are found in different areas of the body:
- Type I: Makes up 90 percent of our body and is found in skin, tendons, bones and ligaments
- Type II: Main component of articular cartilage
- Type III: Elasticity of skin, blood vessels, muscles
- Type IV: Component of the basement membrane (connection between connective tissue and cells)
- Type V: Component of cornea, hair and placenta
Effects of Reduced Collagen Production
From the age of 25, the body's own collagen production decreases by approximately one to two percent per year. Hormonal changes, such as those caused by pregnancy, further accelerate the process.
But external factors also promote the formation of free radicals, which can negatively impact collagen production and the collagen structure — a process called oxidative stress. These external factors include:
- Strong UV radiation
- Nicotine
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Lack of sleep
- Lack of exercise
Reduced collagen production causes the skin to lose density and firmness over time. It appears less plump, is more prone to dryness, and the first signs of fine lines appear.
Boost from Within: Collagen in Dietary Supplements
There are now a variety of products such as capsules, collagen powder and other collagen preparations that are intended to counteract or compensate for the reduced collagen production.
Most collagen supplements are made from animal sources, using the skin and bones of cattle, pigs, and chickens. Collagen itself occurs naturally only in living organisms. However, thanks to a new biotechnological process, it is now possible to produce a vegan collagen substitute.
Even though collagen products hold great promise, their effectiveness is still controversial. While there are already various studies on the subject, most of them are not independent but funded by the manufacturers. The German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) warns against "too much" collagen – the maximum recommended daily intake is 5 grams!
As a structural protein, collagen is one of the proteins you can consume through your normal, healthy diet. Protein-rich foods and those that contribute to collagen formation include eggs, meat and fish, whole grain products, legumes, cottage cheese, nuts and seeds, and cream cheese.
Collagen in Skincare
Collagen in skincare cannot replace the body's own collagen – unfortunately, it cannot penetrate deep enough into the skin to support the body's own collagen fibers in any way.
Nevertheless, collagen in skincare products offers great benefits:
- Nourishing effect: Collagen forms a protective film on the skin and has a nourishing effect. The skin immediately appears plumper and more hydrated.
- Regenerative effect: Collagen supports wound healing and can help with skin regeneration.
- Lock in active ingredients: The collagen protective film is also ideal for better locking previously applied active ingredients into the skin and thus achieving optimal effects.
In addition to collagen itself, there are also many innovative active ingredients that stimulate the skin's own collagen production and thus counteract the first signs of aging. These include vitamin C, which also prevents oxidative stress, retinol and retinal, and peptides.
My Favorite Collagen Products
medicube – Collagen Jelly Cream
34,90 €
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Paula's Choice – Pro-Collagen Multi-Peptide Booster
65,00 €
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Latest lowest price: 0,65 €
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Hanskin Collagen Peptide Eye Cream
31,90 €
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Latest lowest price: 28,71 €
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Q + A Skin – Collagen Face Cream
13,90 €
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MIZON – Collagen Power Lifting Cream
29,90 €
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Hanskin – Collagen Peptide Hydra Ampoule
29,90 €
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Latest lowest price: 26,91 €
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Lumene – NORDIC BLOOM [LUMO] Vegan Collagen Essence
![NORDIC BLOOM [LUMO] Vegan Collagen Essence](http://purish.com/cdn/shop/files/1-lumene-nordic-hydra-lahde-vegan-collagen-essence-purish.jpg?v=1688987667&width=300)
32,90 €
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I hope you enjoyed this blog post about collagen. Let me know if you have any questions or comments!
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