WHAT IT IS

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the skin, think of collagen as the hard, fibrous protein which holds our bodies together and gives our skin a natural elasticity. Collagen accounts for up to 70% of the skin and a third of the total protein in the skin! Yup! it is so important, it will play a vital role in the way the skin looks and ages.

It can be found in most tissues of the body, including the hair, bones, muscles, and skin. The body naturally makes collagen as a building block for a healthy body, and there are over 28 different types.  For this post, we are focusing on collagen with regards to the skin and hair.

WHY WE NEED IT

As we get older, collagen levels begin to be depleted in the skin, our skin loses its firmness and begins to sag, and fine lines and wrinkles become more visible. This decreased level of collagen also affects the ability of the hair follicles to regenerate resulting in rapid thinning and graying of hair.

Studies show that women’s skin lose about 30% of its collagen during the first five years of menopause and lose about two percent of their collagen every year for the next 20 years! Collagen production is also disrupted by environmental aggressors such as sunlight, alcohol, smoking and stress, these further breaks down collagen and elastin fibers and exacerbate the aging process.

Research suggests that protein rich foods and oral collagen supplements are beneficial in stimulating collagen production to help combat these changes to our skin and hair. While research is still inconclusive about the ability of topical application of collagen to stimulate collagen production, they may help prevent further degradation of collagen levels and improve appearance of the skin. In a few studies, topical vitamin C in the form of L-ascorbic acid with concentrations between 5 and 15% was proven to have  skin anti-aging effect by inducing the production of collagen types I and III. (Dermatoendocrinol. 2012 ).

WAYS TO GET IT

To stimulate collagen production in the body, choose supplements and food rich in protein as well as loads of vitamins (vitamin C is essential for the process that makes collagen in the body) and minerals.

Foods like beef, chicken, fish, beans, eggs, and dairy products, combined with vitamin C rich food, zinc and copper from fruits and vegetables can get this process going.

While topical application of cosmetic formulation has not been scientifically shown to improve collagen production, cosmetics formulations with collagen will work as a barrier against environmental elements protecting the skin and preventing further collagen depletion.

WHAT IT WILL DO FOR YOUR SKIN & HAIR

1. Improved hair health

Collagen is an amino acid and hair follicle cells use amino acids to produce keratin protein which promote hair growth, strength and elasticity. Collagen helps to strengthen the hair and improves elasticity.  Increased collagen levels means these hair building proteins will be stimulated resulting in longer, thicker hair. Collagen may also help reduce the appearance of gray hair by supporting the healthy structure of the hair follicle. When collagen creams or gels are applied directly to the scalp, gray hair can appear darker and less dry.

2. Reduced split ends and breakage

Collagen has been shown to be very effective in the treatment of dry, brittle hair. Improved elasticity in hair, means that hair care products containing collagen can repair split ends, as well as maintain a healthy level of hydration.

3. Diminish wrinkles and fine lines

Collagen products and supplements can help prevent signs of aging, improve skin tone, and keep the skin supple and smooth for longer. The amino acids found in collagen help keep the skin looking smooth, even, and healthier.

4. Minimizes scars

Collagen’s amino acids can help minimize the appearance of dark spots and scars from acne or other skin issues. Collagen supplements have been found to promote healthy tissue formation, which speeds up the healing process so your skin can naturally repair itself.

5. Moisturize

The loss of collagen due to aging or environmental factors can leave your skin feeling dry and flaky. Products containing collagen will create a film layer on the skin to reduce water loss and act as a barrier to environment elements giving the skin the hydration it needs to maintain a smooth, soft, radiant appearance.

6. Firm and toned skin

While creams and other skin products containing collagen may help improve the outer layer of skin by resisting the breakdown of collagen, collagen supplements and a healthy diet will increase collagen on a deeper level (in the dermis). The dermis is responsible for keeping skin toned and firm, so the more collagen that reaches this level, the better your skin will look.

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