Whether creams, serums or nutritional supplements, these products promise to improve skin elasticity and slow down aging. How effective are they and should you use them, plus what else should you avoid and do for more beautiful and youthful skin?
You’ve probably noticed that collagen products are becoming very popular.
Whether creams, serums or nutritional supplements, these products promise to improve skin elasticity and slow down aging.
So what exactly is collagen and does it really rejuvenate the skin?
What is collagen and why does the body need it?
Collagen is the type of protein that is most abundant in our body. It is an important part of the body’s connective tissues and, simply put, it holds cells together.
There are about 28 types of collagen and they all have a different structure, but they have a generally similar task in our body.
Optimum collagen levels are important for joint health, kidney and other organ health, and cardiovascular health.
When it comes to skin, collagen is the ingredient that gives it strength and elasticity.
As we age, our body’s collagen levels decline, and some experts believe this is linked to skin aging and the appearance of wrinkles.
It is precisely because of this that creams, serums, and dietary supplements with collagen are becoming very popular.
Are collagen creams and serums effective?
Collagen first began to appear on the market as an ingredient in serums and creams.
It is believed that these products restore elasticity to the skin and slow down the aging process as they nourish it with collagen.
However, some experts doubt the effectiveness of these products for a simple reason – collagen is not found on the surface of the skin, but in the deeper layers.
And creams and serums can’t penetrate that deep.
On the other hand, some research has shown that hyaluronic acid serums can stimulate collagen production.
In general, further research is needed, but since collagen creams and serums can still hydrate the skin, if you notice that they have a positive effect on you, it is recommended to continue using them.
Are collagen supplements effective?
Today there are also collagen supplements – they can be bought as pills or powder, and there are foods enriched with collagen.
According to research, these supplements may be more effective than creams and serums.
It’s important to note that research on collagen supplements typically focuses on health benefits, such as joint health and skin health.
Since this is a relatively new trend, further research is needed on whether supplements reduce the appearance of wrinkles.
If you notice that the supplements have a positive effect on you, feel free to continue taking them.
Research so far has not shown that collagen supplements have side effects, but it is still a good idea to consult a doctor before including them in your diet, especially if you are receiving any therapy.
If you are a vegan or vegetarian, it is important to know that collagen supplements are of animal orgin.
What reduces the level of collagen in the body?
A reduced level of collagen in the body can cause symptoms such as dry skin, joint pain, muscle weakness, etc.
In addition to age, there are factors that can reduce collagen levels, including:
- Hormonal changes due to pregnancy, menopause, health problems, etc
- Oxidative stress that can be a result of bad lifestyle habits, such as smoking and poor diet
- Excessive sun exposure
- Low level of vitamin C in the body
How to maintain optimal collagen levels?
In addition to a healthy diet, there are some small lifestyle changes that will help you maintain the level of collagen in your body, and thus feel its benefits:
- Wear an SPF cream every time you go out in the sun
- Get enough sleep
- Avoid smoking and staying in a room with cigarette smoke
- Control stress – high cortisol levels can reduce collagen production in the body
- Exercise – it’s not known exactly how it helps, but research has shown that exercise can slow skin aging
