Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body. Its function is to support and build cells, tissues and organs to hold together the structures that make up the body’s connective tissue.
Collagen is produced by fibroblasts in the dermis. They can also be stimulated by epithelial cells.
After the age of 30, our body’s production of collagen decreases.
This irremediably implies that the structures lose the balance that used to hold them together, so signs of aging such as wrinkles and joint problems begin to appear.
Types of collagen
Although collagen is related to cosmetics, this protein has diverse applications and origins, so we can speak of three types of collagen:
- Hydrolyzed collagen: is a derivative of egg and bovine cartilage, which is consumed directly in liquid form. It is sold as a food supplement and is used in encapsulated drugs.
- Collagen with magnesium: this type of collagen is widely used by athletes or elderly people, as it contributes to the maintenance of bones and muscles.
- Marine collagen: comes from the skin or scales of animals, generally marine. It is used in cosmetics, as it provides different benefits for the repair of the organism.
Some aesthetic treatments such as radiofrequency and red light phototherapy promote collagen production by triggering the metabolic activation of fibroblasts.
We also ingest glycogen from our diet, which allows us to attenuate the effects of its organic loss. Rich in glycogen are fatty acids (certain fish such as salmon, nuts and soybean oil), vitamin A (carrots, certain vegetables, potatoes and melon) and vitamin C (red fruits, citrus fruits and peppers).
What is the use of collagen?
In the aesthetic sector, collagen is used in countless products for use on the skin, both in creams or lotions, as well as in ampoules or serums for use by injection or electroporation.
They are usually used on the face, chest and neck, and on more localized areas of the skin, to act on expression lines, dark circles, wrinkles or scars.
Benefits of collagen
Among the different benefits of collagen in cosmetics, regardless of the form of application, the following stand out:
- Strengthening: collagen is present in the body’s joints, so maintaining a good level of this protein can ensure good health over time. It also strengthens hair and nails.
- Improves firmness: collagen shows a firmer and plumper skin, tightening it and fighting aging.
- Reduces wrinkles: it provides amino acids that facilitate the recovery of skin structures.
- Moisturizes: collagen helps tissues stay hydrated by retaining water longer.
Collagen, because of its molecular weight, cannot be applied to the skin and expected to penetrate. Therefore, the only way to use it with aesthetic effects is to enhance its production by means of devices or the use of other substances.
Radiofrequency is one of the technologies capable of stimulating collagen.
Contraindications
As it is an organic product, collagen does not cause adverse effects. However, it is advisable not to use it with people suffering from animal allergies.
Commitment to quality
This text on collagen has been written by professional editors and reviewed by Sisneo’s medical-aesthetic team. In addition, we have relied on experts in medicine, engineering and aesthetics as a source of information, as well as specific studies to maintain the quality of what we publish.
At Sisneo Bioscience we are committed to publish truthful and contrasted information. And to update or correct it as soon as new knowledge becomes available.
Among others, we have used the following references:
- María Isabela Avila Rodríguez, Laura G Rodríguez Barroso y Mirna Lorena Sánchez. «Collagen: A review on its sources and potential cosmetic applications» en Journal os Cosmetic Dermatology. doi.org/10.1111/jocd.12450
- Cristina Gamazo Herrero. «Revisión de la eficacia de los suplementos de colágeno y ácido hialurónico en la salud de la piel y el aparato locomotor» en Universidad de Valladolid.
- Mª Adolfina Ruiz Martínez y Mª Encarnación Morales Hernández. «Aproximación al tratamiento del envejecimiento cutáneo» en Ars Pharm vol.56 no.4.
