Collagen and How It Works
Collagen is the substance that holds our body together, much like glue. It is typically found in bones, muscles, skin, nails, the digestive tract, hair, and blood vessels.
More importantly, collagen provides elasticity to our skin by enhancing firmness. It also offers strength, flexibility, and facilitates movement and mobility. Collagen is a key nutrient essential for skin elasticity, constituting three-quarters of our skin. Collagen molecules are relatively large proteins and, under normal circumstances, they cannot penetrate the skin's barrier. The outermost skin layer, known as the stratum corneum, serves as a protective barrier, preventing the entry of large molecules, including collagen.
While collagen molecules cannot penetrate the skin on their own, some cosmetic products claim to contain smaller collagen fragments. Collagen peptides or hydrolyzed collagen can be partially absorbed. These smaller collagen fragments are obtained through a process called hydrolysis, breaking down collagen into smaller peptides.
However, even the smaller collagen fragments face challenges in penetrating the skin because the skin's protective barrier generally prevents most substances from being absorbed. The primary function of the skin is to shield the body from external factors.
The body naturally produces its collagen with a balanced diet that includes the necessary building blocks, such as amino acids. Additionally, certain lifestyle choices, like avoiding excessive sun exposure, maintaining a healthy diet, and not smoking, help support collagen production and maintain skin health.
Collagen is the foundation upon which many body parts rely, particularly our skin. As we age, the body produces significantly less collagen. Signs of this decline begin to show around age 25 when collagen components start diminishing. Skin cells become less active, leading to wrinkles, bone loss in joints making them more fragile, and a decrease in muscle mass affecting balance and gait.
At the cellular level, collagen is a protein associated with plump skin and a radiant glow. This "brick-and-mortar" structure keeps our skin smooth and firm. Collagen works in conjunction with elastin, another essential protein that controls bounce and tone.
Collagen and to how to keep it flowing!
Importance of collagen Nutrition
Generally, we do not get enough collagen from our foods because it is not found in the flesh of an animal. It is in the parts that are usually discarded including the bones, cartilage, hide, and skin.
Collagen cannot be derived from plants and there are no vegan or vegetarian dietary sources for collagen.
Some plant-based foods, like fruits and vegetables, can support collagen production in the body by providing essential nutrients like vitamin C and amino acids.
Keeping in mind that collagen is derived from animal sources only……
According to research, the three sources of collagen are bovine, porcine, and marine which are derived from cows, fish, and pigs.
Ways To Boost Collagen Nutrients:
VITAL PROTEINS Marine Collagen stands out for its ethical sourcing and preparation:
1. Ethical Sourcing: Marine Collagen is derived from Non-GMO white fish caught off the coast of Alaska.
2. Sustainability Focus: Utilizing fish skin and scales, by-products of the seafood industry, to minimize waste and enhance sustainability.
3. Rigorous Preparation: After soaking, cleaning, and softening the scales, collagen extraction takes place.
4. Hydrolyzation: Water and proteolytic enzymes are used to break down collagen into smaller protein chains, known as collagen peptides.
5. Powder Production: Collagen peptides are spray-dried into a fine, odorless powder through a burst of pressurized hot air.
6. Quality Assurance: Each collagen batch undergoes lab testing to ensure safety and quality.
7. Environmentally Responsible: Collagen is packaged in BPA/BPS-free, recyclable containers in a certified facility.
8. Ready for You: High-quality, sustainable collagen is prepared for delivery right to your doorstep
Call or Text us at (941) 877-0753 to order your Vital Proteins Collagen!
Bone broth is one of the best ways to include collegen into your diet easy to make and super hydrating and nutritious.
Here are some of our favorite recipes to incorporate collagen into your food!
Collagen and Skin Treatments
In addition to dietary choices, various skin treatments can stimulate collagen production (our specialty, of course).
While collagen molecules cannot penetrate the skin on their own, certain cosmetic procedures can effectively stimulate collagen production.
In-clinic treatments, such as micro-needling, galvanic, ultrasound, and microcurrent facials, enhance the penetration of smaller molecules to the cellular level, where collagen becomes stimulated.
Micro-needling with growth factors in particular EXOSOMES teaches aging cells to become fresh and young again. Galvanic, micro-current, and ultrasound facilitate the penetration of peptides and other collagen-producing ingredients to the cellular level through currents, which can stimulate collagen production for months after the treatment.
This results in not only improved skin texture and firmness but also long-lasting collagen production.
Collagen and the SUN
Sun exposure can break down collagen through a process known as photoaging. Ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun can damage collagen fibers in the skin. This happens because UV rays generate free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can harm collagen and other structural proteins in the skin. Over time, the accumulation of this damage leads to the degradation of collagen, causing the skin to lose its elasticity and firmness. This can result in wrinkles, sagging, and a loss of skin's youthful appearance. It's essential to protect your skin from excessive sun exposure by using sunscreen and wearing protective clothing to help preserve collagen and maintain healthy skin.
Collagen and The Importance of The Right Ingredients
Collagen-boosting ingredients can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. When looking for skincare products, it's important to read ingredient lists and choose those that include these collagen-boosting ingredients.
Common ingredients that are known to support collagen production and preservation in skincare include:
In conclusion, preserving collagen through a combination of dietary choices, effective skin treatments, and a healthy lifestyle is paramount for maintaining youthful and vibrant skin.
Your dietary selections provide the fundamental building blocks for collagen production, while specialized skin treatments can stimulate and support its renewal. Adopting a lifestyle that includes sun protection, a balanced diet, and avoidance of harmful habits like smoking can further safeguard this crucial protein.
By making conscientious choices in these aspects of your life, you not only invest in the appearance of your skin but also contribute to your overall well-being and longevity, ensuring that your collagen remains a steadfast ally in the journey of healthy aging.