Collagen is a filamentous protein that forms the basis of connective tissue. Collagen accounts for about a third of all proteins in our body.
It is one of the key components of joints, bones, tendons, hair, skin, nails, teeth. In addition, collagen forms the walls of veins, arteries, and capillaries.
Its name comes from the Greek word kolla, which translates as «glue». This is no coincidence: many experts compare the main function of collagen with glue. Collagen molecules form long, thin protein fibers called fibrils. They serve to hold cells together, bind our body into a single whole and allow the tissues to withstand stretching.
With age, collagen reserves are depleted. Fibrils begin to break down faster, while collagen synthesis naturally slows down. This leads to the first signs of aging — the skin becomes thinner and loses elasticity, wrinkles form, bones become more fragile, and joints become less mobile.
Collagen has a lot of useful properties. Perhaps the most famous of them is its ability to slow down the appearance of wrinkles, make the skin smooth and enhance its protective properties. In addition, this protein is believed to reduce anxiety, improve mood, help control weight, and normalize bowel function.
Collagen can be taken not only with food and dietary supplements. Many people get it through injections, cosmetic procedures and special products that are applied to the affected areas of the skin. The effect of cosmetics will be better if it contains hyaluronic acid in addition to collagen.
A more advanced method is collagen injections. They deliver protein directly to the dermis. Its molecules activate the production of natural collagen, repair damaged fibers, smooth out the relief, reduce the depth of wrinkles and additionally moisturize the skin.
There are also more gentle cosmetic procedures that stimulate collagen synthesis in the skin. For example, micro punching or collagen-light therapy.
How cosmetics work with collagen