We often get disappointed with the damage our skin endures. It could be a slew of reasons including pollution but we also know that the skin has its system of getting back on its feet.
It produces all the elements needed for it to sustain and be its best version. As age passes by it is often seen that the skin loses its ability to become as strong as it used to.
The skin elasticity is lost and this could damage our facial features. The texture and tone of the skin could also change especially on the face which again is not a cheerful sight.
We will be helping you understand the major benefits of collagen, a protein produced in the skin that determines its every aspect. Read along to see why collagen is a makeup product must.
What is collagen? How is it formed?
We might have often heard of collagen as being a primary ingredient in makeup products. Celebrities or influencers often talk about collagen being the best thing to be applied to your skin.
But what is it? Collagen is nothing but a protein produced in the body that helps tissues and muscles retain their flexibility.
Despite being the most abundant protein in the body, its secretion is limited on the skin. Its formation is complex.
Firstly, it involves the synthesis of precursor molecules which often occurs inside the cells. Secondly, once these are synthesized, the molecules are further developed to be able to be secreted in various parts of the body.
Thirdly, collagen fibers stick themselves to the group. Additionally, it is connected to the fibrils which are found in deep tissues and connected all over the body.
Lastly, a process known as cross-linking can help strengthen the bond. This then reaches all parts of the body.
What are the key benefits of collagen for the skin?
One of the body’s essential proteins, collagen, has numerous important advantages for the skin. In the first place, it increases the elasticity of the skin, which minimizes the visibility of fine lines and wrinkles. Collagen also helps to hydrate skin, which promotes a youthful, plump appearance.
Now let’s look at the benefits collagen has for the skin.
1. Skin elasticity
Skin is covered all over the body. It protects us and often acts as a first responder for our bodies. However, this is not easy.
It means exposing itself to every danger and often suffering from its consequences. This continuous exposure can lead to loss of elasticity.
Collagen in the skin helps it retain its elasticity and often releases it to its natural position without much problems.
2. Hydration
Nothing can survive without water and this is also true for skin as well. When there is no hydration the skin could be easily damaged but with collagen, the epidermis is stronger, and penetrating it could be a mammoth task protecting the important organs.
3. Wound healing
Our skin is the first point of contact which makes it quite prone to wounds and scars. Collagen’s presence in the skin can facilitate covering the injury up within fewer periods. It does so by helping the skin recuperate faster.
4. Reducing fine lines and wrinkles
Our face is the mirror of our heart. So it is only common that it showcases many fine lines and wrinkles as we age. Using collagen constantly can help you remove this line gradually.
5. Sun protection
We know how harmful the rays of the sun are. It can not only cause visible sunburns but also damage the inner cells even leading to skin cancer.
Collagen strengthens the outer layers to fight off the ultraviolet rays that can damage cells forever.
6. Collagen production
This is a recent study that has piqued the interest of many beauty doctors. According to the researchers, using collagen products can stimulate the release of natural collagen from the skin. How it happens still needs specification and the research is undergoing.
7. Improving skin tone
As the fine lines, wrinkles, and acne disappear, it is possible that the skin can improve its tone. This also means the reduction of hyperpigmentation and redness.
8. Joint health
This might seem strange to many but collagen can also aid in joint health. This is a recent study that has shown much promise in the use of collagen in supplements that can strengthen bones and muscles.
As the benefits of collagen are pretty clear, it is only natural that you would want to know how to use it and that is what we would be discussing with you.
Firstly, you could go for the obvious choice which is to use collagen-supplemented products on the skin including serums, creams, and lotions. It can be applied directly on the skin and should be used according to the instructions given.
Serums also can be used to flush your skin with collagen along with other ingredients and can therefore have added benefits.
Secondly, you can eat collagen supplements which could be in powder or liquid form. Consulting with your dietitian would be a good idea.
Thirdly, DIY collagen masks are a wonderful option. It can be made simply by mixing collagen powders or lotions with any natural ingredients to help the mask.
You could keep it for 30 minutes and let the product soak in. Additionally, not many people know that people could also depend on foods for collagen.
It should be, however, rich in Vitamin C which means oranges, lime, and anything sour could be your friend. Lastly, if nothing works, you can opt for microneedling treatments that artificially inject collagen into the skin.
It is done professionally by beauticians and can even be collaborated with facials.
Conclusion
Collagen is very beneficial for the skin to maintain its beauty and freshness. Due to various reasons, collagen could disappear from our skin. Pollution or unhygienic skin can lead to the loss of collagen in huge quantities.
But it is always possible to retain it. This is done with extreme care and with the help of many products that artificially produce it. However, it should be done with careful consideration.
A dermatologist can tell you more about your skin which you might need to follow closely. Also before applying it topically, you can always look for ways to include it in foods which is a healthy and a sure-shot way of increasing collagen in your body.
References
- Avila Rodríguez MI, Rodriguez Barroso LG, Sánchez ML. Collagen: A review on its sources and potential cosmetic applications (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29144022/). J Cosmet Dermatol. 2018 Feb;17(1):20-6. Accessed 5/23/2022.
- U.S. National Library of Medicine. MedlinePlus. Collagen Peptides. (https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/natural/1606.html#Action) Accessed 5/23/2022.
