In terms of the skin, collagen is found predominantly in the dermis (middle layer) of the skin where it forms part of the ECM (extra cellular matrix) - the matrix of cells, fibres and substance that strengthen and firm the skin and provide it with elasticity.
Collagen is thus an important component of skin supplements, as it makes skin cells strong and resilient. It also plumps up and hydrates the skin, keeping it from sagging and wrinkling, thereby giving the skin a youthful and healthy look.
However, as we age, our bodies produce less collagen. Aging causes thinning of all three layers of the skin (the outer epidermis, the middle dermis layer, the inner hypodermis), and this aging process is accompanied by a decrease in collagen synthesis, with the resultant loss of loss of strength and firmness as well as an increase in sagging and wrinkling, and a combined decrease in elasticity and moisture.
Consequently collagen depletion leads to dry skin, loss of elasticity and the formation of wrinkles, making it necessary to supplement our daily intake.
WHAT DOES RESEARCH SAY ABOUT COLLAGEN SUPPLEMENTATION?
Research has shown that oral supplementation with hydrolysed collagen (shorter peptide chains of collagen such as our Skin Nutrition hydrolysed collagen granules and capsules);
- can help slow the aging of your skin
- Reducing wrinkles and dryness
- Hydrating the skin and improving elasticity
- in addition to enhancing the skins appearance by smoothing the skin and reducing roughness
SO WHAT IS COLLAGEN IN MY BODY AND WHERE IS IT FOUND?
Collagen is most abundant protein in the human body and is often referred to as the ‘substance that holds the body together’. It is produced by the body and found throughout the body; however its highest concentrations are found in connective tissue (of e.g. the skin, bones, cartilage, ligaments and around organs, etc) where it provides structural support.
Collagen is a very strong, rigid and insoluble molecule and forms part of the fibrous group of structural proteins, which are needed to build and strengthen skin, hair and nails, etc. Collagen is a complex protein made up of numerous amino acids including hydroxyproline as well as a high content of proline and glycine. The amino acids are bound together in a triple (3 strand) helix structure, which gives collagen its tensile strength (i.e. resistance to breaking under tension), making it an ideal compound for supporting and holding cells together.
WHAT ARE DIFFERENT TYPES OF COLLAGEN IN THE HUMAN BODY?
Collagen is an essential compound in our body and plays an important role in many different parts of the body. As such, more than one kind is needed. In fact there are nearly 30 different kinds of collagen; however the following five types are the most predominant:
- type I collagen is found in skin, hair, nails, bone, ligaments and tendons
- type II is found in cartilage and in the eyes
- type III is found in muscles, bone marrow, lymph tissue & blood vessels
- type IV is found in the cell membranes (part of the basement membrane)
- type V is found in the placenta
In order to form collagen, the body needs the necessary amino acid building blocks, such as proline, glycine, lysine, and hydroxyproline, amongst others. Vitamin C, zinc, copper and manganese are also needed to support collagen and to help form the extracellular matrix (ECM).
CONCLUSION
Collagen, the fibrous protein found in connective tissue, is often referred to the ‘substance/glue that holds the body together’ because it is part of the extracellular matrix that binds cells and tissues together and provides structural support and strength, especially for the skin.
It helps slow down skin aging by reducing wrinkles, roughness and dryness. Collagen is thus the protein responsible for maintaining the skin’s youthful look. As such collagen is an vital and important ingredient in maintaining our external beauty.
Regular use of Skin Nutrition’s Pure Collagen hydrolysed granules and capsules has been clinically proven to benefit your skin;
- Firmer and stronger skin
- Brighter and more hydrated skin
- Reduced lines and wrinkles
- Smoother and softer skin
- Stronger and faster growing nails and hair
Skin Nutrition Collagen is Type I and III Hydrolyzed Collagen and is Halal Certified
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