Collagen is a long-chain amino acid, and is the most abundant protein in our bodies. Collagen is responsible for skin firmness and elasticity. Unfortunately, collagen production slows down as we age, resulting in wrinkles, fine lines, and decreasing smoothness and suppleness. Therefore, supplemental collagen is important because it helps the body’s own collagen production improve.
Benefits of Collagen
The benefits of collagen are plenty. Because it is a building protein, collagen has been shown to improve the strength of hair and nails, and reduce breakage in both. It increases skin strength by stimulating cell turnover and regeneration. This results in changes in the dermis, meaning that the collagen is not only improving the outer appearance of the skin, but is also working from within on the foundational layers. Additionally, collagen increases blood circulation, which is good for evening out skin tone and brightness.
Using a collagen cream as part of your daily skincare routine will provide immediate results. Within just a couple of days, you will notice more supple, plump skin. The appearance of fine lines and wrinkles will decrease, and skin will appear smoother. These benefits are mainly a result of the collagen acting as a humectant, improving the ability of the skin to absorb and retain moisture. Collagen creams need to be applied daily in order to work to their fullest potential. Collagen injections are also an option for improving skin, but beware that they are pricey and will need to be administered at regular intervals.
Where to Find it
In additional to creams and injections, you can also take dietary collagen supplements. When you add a collagen supplement to your diet, the benefits will manifest themselves in a more youthful, bright appearance. You can get a bovine, chicken, or fish collagen supplement- each will have good but slightly different benefits. Fish collagen is type 1, and is generally considered the best type of collagen for providing a foundation for better, brighter, firmer skin. Many, if not most, of the supplements that you will find for targeting aging skin will contain fish collagen. The natural collagen found in eggs also improves overall skin tone and texture and decreases wrinkles.
