#AskTheDoc: Does Collagen Really Lift Sagging Skin?
Loose, sagging skin. Despite the breadth of beauty norms and standards having grown in both the industry space, as well as within our own conscious self-security, nobody wants to see their skin begin to droop.
Collagen — collagen peptides, marine collagen, serums, masks, snack bars, and …water? Collagen has gained a massive amount of traction and attention in both the beauty industry as well as being unavoidable by the public eye through the past decade. But like many other buzzworthy trends and terms, we have to ask ourselves,
“Will collagen supplementation truly make a visible difference in how tight and sculpted my skin feels?”
“If I exercise, eat well & maintain a healthy bodyweight, do I really need t worry about collagen loss?”
Dr. Brian Keller, who, if you’re new to b.glenish!, is the C.S.O. of b.glen Skincare. Alongside his title, Dr. Keller is the founder of the groundbreaking skincare permeating technology, QuSome.
Having years of research, knowledge, and hands-on experience with thousands of compounds found in the majority of supplements and skincare products today, Dr. Keller states that,
“Collagen is one of my favorite topics to discuss. Although it’s brilliant, structurally, it’s conceptually misunderstood by the masses.”
So, if you were on your way to make your favorite collagen smoothie, you might want to take a seat for a moment, to fully understand if you’re making the right moves.
We’re seeing collagen EVERYWHERE today.
From powders, to snacks, skincare — and even shampoos, through some brands. How does collagen work to support the body, and promote a youthful appearance?
Dr. Keller: “For starters, collagen is an amazing fiber, and an important element in supporting our tissues and organs. Collagen is the single-most abundant structural protein in the body, and can be found in connective tissue, bone, cartilage, and skin.
Think of it like this, collagen is organized much like yarn, a rope or steel cable. Each ‘thread’ of the collagen molecule is made-up of amino acids (ex. proline, glycine, hydroxyproline) strung together, and called a polypeptide. Three strands are then wound together to form the collagen molecule. The collagen molecules are bundled together to form the collagen fibril and fibrils are bundled together to make collagen fiber.
Collagen is strong, it’s flexible, and it has greater-rule over supporting the skin throughout the Dermis.”
Why would someone’s skin begin sagging in their 30’s-40’s? It seems people are beginning to notice signs of aging earlier now in our current era.
Dr. Keller: “Collagen begins to diminish as we age. The processes of intrinsic degradation by enzymes and the oxidative process, and the exposure to Ultraviolet Radiation (UVR) breaks down collagen at the amino acid level.
The threads begin to break-apart (also known as elasticity loss), and the collagen fibers start to lose flexibility and strength.”
The diagram below visually shows us how natural collagen production slows with age.
Many skincare products, b.glen included, contain Hydrolyzed Collagen. Is topical collagen different from collagen in supplement form (for how effective it is).
What is ‘Hydrolyzed’ Collagen?
Dr. Keller: “Hydrolyzed Collagen is used in cosmetic products for two main reasons:
- To give the product some body (the formulation reason) and,
- To help prevent trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL). Collagen is a terrific moisturizer; it forms a protective barrier on the surface of the skin to help stop water from escaping the skin’s surface.
The term ‘Hydrolyzed’ is a pointer towards the collagens source, which is marine wildlife for our brand b.glen. Hydrolyzed Collagen is treated with a special acid-process to allow it to absorb water more easily, and formulate a substantial byproduct.
Will applying collagen-enhanced products improve the appearance of skin that is already sagging?
Dr. Keller: Collagen, when used by itself, will not significantly reduce sagging. In combination with other anti-aging ingredients and submerged in a stable carrier, collagen can improve cellular and intercellular skin hydration and protect collagen in the skin from breaking down.
All in all, collagen really supports your body’s natural collagen-producing functions, and may help to replace the collagen that has degraded throughout the years.”
At what age should someone begin to consider the use of collagen skincare products?
Dr. Keller: “I always recommend that a comprehensive skincare regimen start in the mid to late 20’s.”
“We see the beginning signs of aging starting to appear around age 27–29. The regimen should contain a product that has anti-aging ingredients including collagen. Choose potent, velvety night creams, like b.glen QuSome Moisture Rich Cream, which contains Hydrolyzed Collagen, as well as a host of various peptides and amino acids.”
“The regimen does not need to be complicated, and should contain a gentle cleanser and a high-strength sunscreen. I also recommend daily use of Vitamin C and Retinol.”
The Verdict: Is Collagen Worth the Splurge?
Like most other skin, beauty and wellness related topics, simply drinking a collagen-infused water followed by applying a collagen night cream isn’t going to fully reap the benefits you are looking for.
Maintain a well-balanced diet, with plenty of fruits and vegetables for Vitamin C, (which helps with collagen production and nutrient absorption).
Sip on some bone broth if you include animal products in your diet. Bone broth is packed with amino acids and supports youthful and healthy skin, through a balanced gut microbiome.
